Pencak Silat or Silat ("fighting by using techniques of self-defence") is a Southeast Asian martial art with roots in the culture of the Malay World. This art is widely known in Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore but can also be found in varying degrees among the Malay-affiliated countries of Thailand and the Philippines. The art has also reached Europe, and is especially popular in the Netherlands, where it is as popular as karate is in the United States. It is estimated that there are hundreds of aliran (styles) and thousands of schools. Many of the aliran find their origin in the observation of wild animals fighting. "Harimau" (Tiger) and "Elang" (Eagle) are some examples.
There are four main aspects to pencak silat:
The "Mental-Spiritual" aspect:
Pencak silat aims to build and develop personality and noble character.
The "Bela Diri" (self-defence) aspect:
Self-confidence and perseverance are very important.
The "Seni Budaya" (culture, art) aspect:
Culture and performing the "art" of pencak silat is very important. This combines Pencak Silat with traditional music and costumes.
The "Olahraga" (sport) aspect:
This means that the physical aspect of pencak silat is important. We try to have a sound mind in a sound body. Competitions are part of this aspect.
There are full-contact (Pertandingan=Competition) fights, as well as form demonstrations, for one (Tunggal), two (Ganda) or team (Regu) persons.
Master O'ong Maryono's Pencak Silat Page - Master teacher and Pencak Silat scholar O'ong Maryono provides information on the Keluarga Pencak Silat Nusantara school, and detailed insights into the development of this art. Discussion board, numerous articles in EN and Bahasa, information on media, and a photo gallery.
Wikipedia - Silat - Encyclopedic article that includes information on the basic philosophies of Pencak Silat, and a list of styles.
RCI- Trainee Instructor - Practising Silat in Japan