SENI GAYONG- MALAYSIA

“Seni Gayung” is how an East Asian martial art form called Seni Gayong is also referred to as. This “semi contact” combat form is said to have originated from Malaysia. Apparently, this type of martial art form is said to be the most popular “Malaysian silat”. Furthermore, the Malaysian “Pertubuhan Silat Seni Gayong Organization” is the first martial art association to have been initiated in Malaysia. In addition, this organization currently is led by Dato Ismail Jantan.

a. History/origin of the Seni Gayong:

According to the cultural history of Malaysia, Seni Gayong was first developed within a community known as Bugis belonging to an island called Sulawesi. This combat form was initially named “Silat Sendi Harimau” which when literally translated means “tiger joint silat”. Furthermore, this martial art system basically comprises of “tiger claw technique” that is used mainly to lock the joints of opponents. Apparently, it was a prince of the Bugis community during the 1800’s named Daeng Kuning who brought this combat style to Malaysia. This martial art form was eventually passed on to the great grandson of Kuning named Meor Abdul Rahman. In addition, it was Dato Meor Abdul Rahman (son of Meor Abdul Rahman) that created Malaysia’s first ever martial art association “Pertubuhan Silat Seni Gayong Malaysia” also known as the “Malaysian Silat Seni Gayong Organization” which basically focused on the development of this style of combat.

b. Weapon used in the Seni Gayong:

“Hands and legs” of the fighter is mainly used as a weapon in this form of combat. In addition, weapons such as kris i.e. dagger, brass knuckles, a tonfa i.e. a stick, and T-baton are used. Furthermore, cloth weapons such as chindai and bengkong may also be used as a weapon in this martial art form.

c. Technique used in the Seni Gayong and the training availability:

In terms of techniques, a fighter mainly uses moves such as strikes, grabs, and joint manipulation in this combat form. Furthermore, “acrobatic” moves may also be used in the Seni Gayong. As for training centers/schools, there are a few available especially in Malaysia for those interested in learning this “semi contact” martial art form.

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