18 February 2009

Martial art a way to keep youths occupied

The traditional martial art should be developed into a living heritage to keep youngsters occupied during their free time.

Penang Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas said the traditional martial art, regardless of racial affiliation, would be a platform to inculcate good values and strengthen unity among the people.

“Martial art is not meant for terrorism and violence,” said Abdul Rahman.

“Instead, it is meant to discipline oneself and instil the values of respect and care among the members.

Members of the Seni Silat Pusaka Warisan striking a pose during the self-defence demonstration.

“Our children now are more pre-occupied with computer games and watching television, and they should be encouraged to take up martial art as an outdoor activity,” he said when launching the Persatuan Seni Silat Cekak Malaysia Universiti Sains Malaysia 33rd anniversary Warrior Night recently.

USM Seni Silat association members later gave action-packed performance, captivating the crowd with their splendid martial art skills.

The Taekwondo exponents, who also gave an equally brilliant performance, impressed the crowd with their wood-breaking feat using their fists and legs.

The Warrior Night project director Ahmad Hafizal Hakim Mohd Shahar said the event was aimed at showcasing the rich-ness of the Malay traditional culture to fellow Malaysians.

Sourced from http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2009/2/18/north/3218767&sec=north

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