Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. President Prabowo Subianto said on Saturday (11/4/2026) that Pencak Silat serves as a critical pillar of Indonesia's national character, transcending its role as a mere sport or martial art.

"Pencak Silat reflects the personality of the Indonesian people, embodying values of courage used strictly for protection rather than arrogance," he said during the National Congress of the Indonesian Pencak Silat Association (PB IPSI) as reported by antaranews.com.

Speaking to delegates at the JCC Senayan, the President highlighted how the martial art historically fueled national resistance against colonial forces, often being practiced in secret to preserve Indonesian heritage. 

He said that fostering physical and mental toughness through Silat at the village level directly contributes to a stable and resilient nation. President Prabowo, who was to the  PB IPSI Chairman, urged the younger generation to master the craft with humility, ensuring that this living cultural legacy remains a unifying force in the face of modern global challenges.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)