November 9, 2025 – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — The sands of history were written in the Malaz Combat Hall as Pencak Silat, Indonesia’s ancient martial art and a proud symbol of Southeast Asia’s cultural heritage, stormed onto the global stage at the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games (ISG) in Riyadh.
On a day that will be remembered in martial arts history, Pencak Silat shone brightly as a demonstration sport, drawing thunderous applause from packed stands and high-level officials alike. While medals earned in this category won’t count toward a nation’s official medal tally, the prestige, skill, and spectacle of competition were undeniable.
The Stage Was Set for Excellence With no National Olympic Committees (NOCs) in charge, athletes qualified directly through their National Pencak Silat Federations — a bold move signaling trust in grassroots martial arts organizations. The Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) capped participation at 12 male and 12 female athletes — a total of 24 elite competitors from across the Muslim world.
Global Champions Gathered in Riyadh Eight nations sent warriors to represent their nations: Algeria, Egypt, Indonesia (the birthplace of Pencak Silat), Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia (host nation, proud to showcase their cultural diversity), Uzbekistan and Yemen.
Four Fierce Categories, One Unified Message The competition featured four high-intensity weight classes: Senior Men’s Class C: 55–60 kg, Senior Men’s Class D: 60–65 kg, Senior Women’s Class C: 55–60 kg and Senior Women’s Class D: 60–65 kg
The full event was packed into a single electrifying day — a testament to the efficiency, passion, and intensity of the athletes and organizers alike.
Celebration of Culture, Unity & Legacy The victory ceremony was a moment of pride and international camaraderie. Attending were: H.E. Dr. Abdul Aziz Ahmad, Indonesia’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia — a standing tribute to the art’s home nation, Mr. Nasser Ayman Majali, Secretary General of the ISSA — who praised Pencak Silat’s “grace, power, and spiritual depth” and top sports authorities from Riyadh, recognizing the sport’s growing regional and global appeal
This historic performance has already sent ripples through the world of martial arts. With its deep roots in Indonesia — the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation — and now undeniable global visibility at a high-profile international event, Pencak Silat is on the fast track to becoming a full medal sport in future Islamic Solidarity Games.
The dream is no longer just a vision — it’s in motion. (tsse)
“Pencak Silat isn’t just a martial art. It’s a cultural legacy that speaks to unity, resilience, and mastery of self. Today, it made its voice heard on the world’s stage.” — ISSA Official, Riyadh, November 9, 2025