KUCHING: The Jabat Sejagat 2025 highlighted Sarawak’s commitment to martial arts, blending cultural preservation, youth participation, and honoring veterans.
Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the second edition of the event reflects Sarawak’s efforts to revive and promote martial arts traditions across all ethnic groups.
He said that in the past, learning self-defense was essential for all youth, unlike today when safety is largely ensured by authorities.
“This is why martial arts, if not actively preserved, can gradually fade with time. Martial arts exist everywhere—Japan, China, Thailand, and across the Nusantara region, including Sarawak, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
“Every community has its own form of martial arts As circumstances changed, it became our responsibility to ensure that these cultural heritages are not lost to time,” he said.
He said this in his speech after officiating the Festival Jabat Sejagat 2025 closing ceremony at Sarawak Sports Village yesterday (Dec 29).
He added that preserving martial arts heritage is a collective responsibility, requiring proper mentorship, support from government and private organisations, and active participation from youth.
“With effort, what started small can grow to a recognised level, possibly involving participation from similar heritage arts from other countries.
“Tonight, I saw not only the elders and veterans but also many young participants. This shows our efforts to revive silat and other self-defense traditions have been very successful,” he added.
He also assured continued support for annual or periodic martial arts tournaments, including Taekwondo, Kung Fu, Muay Thai, and silat, which foster camaraderie among local and international participants.
“Events and gatherings like this instill a love for heritage and cultivate a passion for martial arts among our youth.
“They also teach discipline, resilience, and respect for elders in a child, especially of Malay silat,” he said.
Looking ahead, he said the third edition of Jabat Sejagat could be held in larger venues such as BCCK or a stadium, with increased funding and outdoor screens to accommodate more spectators.
“I understand that many could not enter the hall tonight, so screens will be set up outside so that everyone can see what is happening inside.
“This also demonstrates the public support and enthusiasm from the community, parents, and martial arts schools involved in making the event a success,” he said.