IPOH, Oct 18 — The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) recognition of silat as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity does not guarantee its survival if younger generations increasingly distance themselves from training, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said.
He said veteran silat instructors and grandmasters must pass their knowledge to the next generation to keep the martial art alive and ensure it continues to be practised.
“We may have a proud silat heritage, but if young people turn away from the training arena, fewer will truly master and appreciate the art,” he said.
State Education, Higher Education, Youth and Sports Committee chairman Datuk Khairudin Abu Hanipah read out Saarani’s speech on his behalf at the opening of the 2026 Gema Warisan Rakan Muda X Himpunan Mahabbah Pendekar today.
