UNS — Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta held another International Virtual Pencak Silat Championship. After the success of last year’s event, this year, UNS hosted the second International Pencak Silat competition. This International Virtual Pencak Silat Championship II is part of the series of the 46th UNS Anniversary Celebration. The competition is open internationally to university representatives or national teams from countries across the globe.
The Rector of UNS, Prof. Dr. Jamal Wiwoho, opened the event on June 24-26, 2022. He explained that this international competition was held to introduce one of Indonesia’s intangible cultural heritage to be known by more countries. Moreover, today, Pencak Silat has been designated as an Indonesian cultural heritage recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). “We should be proud and continue to strive for Pencak Silat to gain the younger generations’ interest because a strong nation is a nation that values its own culture,” said Prof. Jamal.
The championship provided three championship categories: single, double, and team. This year, the International Virtual Pencak Silat Championship was attended by participants from seven countries, with a total of 19 contingents competing in this championship, consisting of 11 contingents from Indonesia and 8 (eight) contingents from abroad. Totalling 95 participants are competing to be the champion.
The championship is still being held virtually, considering that the pandemic in Indonesia is not yet over. Some positive cases are resurfacing. Therefore, the assessment process is carried out virtually. Nevertheless, it does not compromise the jury’s objectivity.
Prof. Jamal hopes this championship can be an event to find superior Pencak Silat athlete talents. Additionally, it is hoped that the younger generation can love Pencak Silat. “Through this competition, we hope to find excellent young talents, who will contribute to the national honors,” he concluded. Humas UNS
Reporter: Ida Fitriyah
Editor: Dwi Hastuti