The 20th World Pencak Silat Championship and the 5th Junior World Pencak Silat Championship, held in Abu Dhabi from December 18-22, 2024, brought together participants from 57 nations across five continents. The event, with over 1,100 athletes, coaches, referees, judges, and officials, was a historic milestone as the largest World Pencak Silat Championship and the biggest Silat event ever hosted in the UAE.
Stunning Opening Ceremony
The opening of the event was enlivened by a stunning performance from 100 martial artists from Jakarta, who performed the art of pencak silat with bare hands and using various traditional weapons.
Indonesia’s Dominance on Display
Indonesia emerged as the overall champion in both senior and junior categories:
- Senior Category: Indonesia led with 11 gold, 7 silver, and 5 bronze medals, ahead of Vietnam (10 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze) and Malaysia (6 gold, 9 silver, 4 bronze).
- Junior Category: Indonesia’s junior team secured 11 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze medals, surpassing Singapore (9 gold, 3 silver, 8 bronze) and Kazakhstan (5 gold, 7 silver, 10 bronze).
Kenyan Athlete Shines
Team Kenya’s Ms. Laura Tsisika Machinga made history by fighting in the final match against a Vietnamese athlete, earning a silver medal. Her outstanding performance not only highlighted her skill and determination but also underscored Kenya’s growing presence in the world of Pencak Silat. This achievement brings pride to the African continent and inspires further participation from Kenya in global martial arts competitions.
Historic Achievement for India
In another groundbreaking moment, Sheikh Mohammad Ibrahim from India won a gold medal at the championship. This remarkable feat is a testament to his exceptional skill, determination, and resilience, marking the first-ever gold medal for India in the history of the World Pencak Silat Championship.
Other Highlights (Updated)
- Indonesia (Senior): 11 gold, 7 silver, 5 bronze
- Indonesia (Junior): 11 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze
- Vietnam (Senior): 10 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze
- Vietnam Junior Team: 8 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze
- Malaysia (Senior): 6 gold, 9 silver, 4 bronze
- Malaysia Junior Team: 5 gold, 4 silver, 4 bronze
- Philippines (Senior): 1 gold, 4 silver, 3 bronze
- Thailand: 5 silver, 6 bronze
- Kazakhstan (Senior): 1 gold, 3 bronze
- Kazakhstan (Junior): 5 gold, 7 silver, 12 bronze
- Singapore (Senior): 3 gold, 13 bronze
- Singapore (Junior): 9 gold, 3 silver, 8 bronze
Global Participation
The championships involved more than 1,100 participants, including athletes, coaches, referees, judges, and officials, from 57 countries representing five continents: Asia, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. This global representation underscored Pencak Silat’s growing international appeal and highlighted the diversity of talent competing in the sport.
Awards and Recognition
The Senior World Championship trophy was presented by Indonesia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sugiono, while UAE’s Minister of State, HE Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, awarded the Junior Championship trophy during the closing ceremony at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Special awards honored the best male and female athletes in junior and senior categories, as well as outstanding referees, showcasing excellence in the sport.
Presidential Message and Legacy
Minister Sugiono conveyed a message from President Prabowo Subianto, emphasizing the championship’s role in strengthening international camaraderie and inspiring future generations to carry forward Pencak Silat’s noble traditions. He highlighted the event as a platform to celebrate skill, sportsmanship, and cultural heritage.
UAE’s Contribution and Vision
The UAE played a pivotal role in the championship’s success, with strong support from the UAE Sports for All Federation and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. UAE athletes performed admirably, securing 1 gold, 2 silver, and 6 bronze medals, with standout performances such as Hamza Akram Rachman, who was named the best pre-junior athlete.
A Historic Championship
The 20th World Pencak Silat Championship was not only the largest world championship in Pencak Silat’s history but also the biggest Silat event ever hosted in the UAE. With participation from 57 countries and over 1,100 participants, the event showcased Pencak Silat’s expanding global footprint, fostering deeper international collaboration and inspiring new generations to embrace this martial art.
The outstanding performances of Sheikh Mohammad Ibrahim and Ms. Laura Tsisika Machinga exemplify the global nature of the championship and the rising stars of Pencak Silat worldwide.
