Riyadh, July 19, 2025 – The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Riyadh officially launched a pencak silat training program for the public in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Indonesian Embassy in Riyadh.
This training is part of Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy efforts to introduce the country’s traditional martial art to communities in Saudi Arabia and to strengthen pencak silat’s position as a globally recognized sport. The program is also one of the activities held in celebration of the 80th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence.
The event was officially opened by Mr. Sugiri Suparwan, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Republic of Indonesia in Riyadh. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of strengthening the pencak silat community in Saudi Arabia and preserving Indonesian culture through educational and inclusive activities.
The training sessions are scheduled twice a week, every Saturday and Wednesday, and are led by Jamal Mahdi, an internationally certified trainer from Yemen. The program attracted more than 40 participants from various international communities in Riyadh, including students, migrant workers, and professionals. Participants showed great enthusiasm during the opening session, especially when introduced to the basic movements of pencak silat.
Through this initiative, Indonesia not only promotes pencak silat as a martial art but also shares the values of discipline, physical endurance, and the spirit of togetherness embedded in the nation’s cultural heritage.
The Indonesian Embassy in Riyadh continues to welcome new registrations for those interested in joining the training. It is hoped that this activity will serve as a sustainable platform for community development and strengthen bonds between communities through sports and culture.
Source: kemlu.go.id