Powering interest in 'silat'

It is time to revise silat gayung to make it more appealing to the new generation, said Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo.

Silat gayung, a traditional Malay martial arts, can also improve discipline.

Dr Mohd Khir was speaking at the closing ceremony of Malaysia Silat Gayung Association (PSGM), Hulu Langat District branch three-day training camp at Dataran Datuk Mohd Said Commercial Centre in Rincing, km38, Jalan Kajang-Seremban.

The Menteri Besar was earlier appointed as patron of PSGM Selangor.

Others present at the event were acting association president Dr Ahmad Lazim, PSGM Selangor president Datuk Zainal Abidin Sakom and PSGM Hulu Langat branch president Datuk Mohd Said Mat Saman.

Dr Mohd Khir urged more schools to introduce silat gayung in their curriculum to promote it to youths.

"We can pass on the martial art skills to the younger generation and help them avoid unhealthy influence." A total of 134 PSGM members took part in the camp and underwent intensive training under the national masters.

At present, the PSGM Hulu Langat has set up silat gayung clubs in 22 schools and plans to expand to all secondary and primary schools in the district.

At the closing ceremony, silat gayung teams from Singapore, Perak, Pahang, Malacca, Johor and Universiti Putra Malaysia took turns to demonstrate their skills. An exhibition on the history and activities of silat gayung in Malaysia were also held.

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