LEBAK – Banten Deputy Governor Achmad Dimyati Natakusumah has called for pencak silat, Indonesia’s traditional martial art, to be introduced as a local curriculum subject or extracurricular activity in schools to build young people’s courage and self-confidence while preserving the nation’s cultural heritage.
Dimyati made the remarks while opening the 2026 Pencak Silat Santri Championship for participants from Banten and West Java at the auditorium of Darel Azhar Modern Islamic Boarding School in Lebak Regency on Friday, 23 October 2026.
“Through pencak silat, we preserve our culture. It also teaches us to stand up for what is right and help those who are vulnerable. That is why I want pencak silat to be introduced in schools, either as a local curriculum subject or an extracurricular activity,” Dimyati said on (October 23, 2026).
Beyond developing physical skills, pencak silat can help students build confidence and a stronger sense of self-belief, he said. Dimyati stressed that the traditional martial art was an important part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage that must continue to be preserved, developed and introduced to younger generations from an early age.
He also praised the championship, which attracted thousands of students and santri — pupils studying at Islamic boarding schools — from Banten and West Java. He highlighted the important role of Islamic boarding schools in nurturing young people who are not only knowledgeable in religious teachings but also equipped with self-defence skills.
“I commend Darel Azhar Islamic Boarding School. It teaches its students religion as well as pencak silat,” Dimyati said.
Meanwhile, Ues Sulkurni, chairman of the organising committee for the 2026 Pencak Silat Santri Championship, said the competition had attracted 1,098 students and santri from various parts of Banten and West Java, including Sukabumi, Bogor, Indramayu and Purwakarta.
He explained that the championship provided an opportunity for participants to develop their martial arts abilities while improving their physical fitness and preparing themselves to serve their communities.
“Santri stand up for what is right, so they must be physically fit and healthy,” Ues said.
The championship underscores the role of traditional martial arts in character development, combining physical discipline with moral values while helping preserve Indonesia’s cultural traditions among younger generations.
