In efforts to further elevate Cambodia’s pencak silat scene, the International Pencak Silat Federation (IPSF), in cooperation with the Indonesian Ministry of Youth and Sports, have appointed a senior coach from to train Cambodian pencak silat athletes for the next three months.
Mr. Lutfan Budi Santosa, a seasoned coach from Indonesia, was one of the first people who brought pencak silat to Cambodia in 2023. He had led the coaching staff in preparation for Cambodia’s first ever participation in a major pencak silat competition during the 32nd SEA Games in Phnom Penh.
Cambodia won its first ever pencak silat gold medal at the Games.
In his remarks, Indonesian ambassador Darmosumarto Santo highlighted the pencak’s silat role in further strengthening the friendship and cooperation between the Cambodia and Indonesia.
“Our two countries share a long history of cultural ties. Today’s event shows our commitment to translate these ties into greater mutual understanding, mutual respect, friendship, and concrete cooperation,” he added.
Cambodia Pencak Silat Secretary General Ou Dara extended his appreciation to the Indonesian government for its continued support to the development of pencak silat in Cambodia, calling it “an act of friendship”.
Highlighting that various moves in pencak silat were similar to Cambodia’s traditional martial arts of Kun Bokator, Mr. Ou Dara believed that pencak silat would grow to become a popular sport in Cambodia.
The arrival of Lutfan is timely, as Cambodia prepares for various upcoming competitions, including the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain (October) and the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand (December).
More than 90 pencak silat athletes will be vying for spots in the Cambodian teams at those sporting events.
Through sharing pencak silat with the Cambodian people, Indonesia wants to strengthen not only bilateral cooperation in sports, but also bring the two countries’ peoples closer.
Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports, Hangchuon Naron raised the importance of this during his recent discussions with Ambassador Santo.
Founded in 1980, IPSF is currently led by Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto. The President is passionate champion of promoting pencak silat across the world.
