Pencak Silat Shines at ISG Riyadh 2025: From Nusantara Heritage to the Global Stage

Pencak silat once again steals the spotlight.

This time, pencak silat showcases its prowess at the Islamic Solidarity Games (ISG) 2025 stage in Riyadh. Although only a demonstration sport, its presence proves that this distinctive Indonesian martial heritage is not merely about moves and kicks, but also about national identity now transcending cultural and continental boundaries.

Behind pencak silat's appearance at ISG 2025 lies the long-term efforts of Persilat, PB IPSI, and the Indonesian NOC. They are not just taking the sport abroad; they are bringing the spirit of the archipelago along on the journey.

“Even though it's a demo sport, we prepared it as seriously as an official event. This is part of preserving pencak silat's dignity as an educational, ethical, and value-laden cultural heritage sport,” said Teddy Suratmadji, Secretary General of PB IPSI and Persilat.

ISG 2025 features 19 athletes from nine countries competing in four events: men's and women's class C (55–60 kg) and class D (60–65 kg). The opening ceremony was rich in philosophy. The "buka gelanggang" (arena opening) tradition became a symbol of balance between art and sportsmanship. There, pencak silat appeared not only as martial arts but also as a cultural expression.

Interestingly, despite its exhibition status, the execution was managed with professional standards. This is part of the strategic steps towards global multievents like the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026. Pencak silat's development is also increasingly felt in Central Asia. Countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan are now actively nurturing young pencak silat athletes.

According to Teddy, this is inseparable from the sports diplomacy carried out by the Indonesian NOC together with Persilat and PB IPSI.

“We are optimistic that pencak silat will continue to rise in stature. After appearing at the Asian Youth Games Bahrain and delivering a silver medal for the host, now it's ISG's turn to be its stage. This is a concrete step,” he affirmed.

However, the most encouraging news comes from the Middle East. The spirit of pencak silat is starting to grow there. Mazen Alzahrani, a Saudi Arabian athlete, admitted he fell in love after watching silat match videos from Indonesia and Malaysia.

“I started from Muaythai, but pencak silat feels more complete. It demands strength, speed, and thought – there's a special connection within it,” he said.

This phenomenon confirms that pencak silat is no longer solely Indonesia's property. It has become a universal language about balance, ethics, and respect.

And through ISG Riyadh 2025, pencak silat does not merely showcase its prowess; it also affirms its steps towards the world, with its head held high and its roots still firmly planted in the soil of the archipelago.