Indonesia Build up Global Ambition for Pencak Silat Following New IPSI Leader

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Erick Thohir, congratulated Foreign Minister Sugiono on his election as Chairman of the Central Board of the Ikatan Pencak Silat Indonesia (IPSI) for the 2026–2030 term. Sugiono was elected unanimously during the 16th IPSI National Congress held at Jakarta International Convention Center Saturday evening 11 April 2026.

“I would like to congratulate Mr. Sugiono on being elected as IPSI chairman by acclamation, and also extend my appreciation to the outgoing board for their outstanding work,” Erick said in his remarks shortly after the announcement. He acknowledged the contributions of previous administrators in advancing pencak silat at both national and international levels.

Erick emphasized that the Ministry of Youth and Sports will continue to support the development of pencak silat as part of a broader effort to globalize the traditional martial art. This aligns with the congress theme, “Pencak Silat Towards the Olympics,” and reflects the directive of Prabowo Subianto to promote the sport internationally.

According to him, Pencak Silat has demonstrated consistent achievements in international competitions, particularly in medal performances. He added that the sport is deeply rooted in Indonesian society and plays a significant role in character building while preserving cultural heritage.

“We must bring pencak silat to the global stage and ensure it competes with other martial arts worldwide,” Erick stated. “With 83 international representations already established, collaboration between IPSI, the government, and the President will expand both global exposure and domestic participation.”

He further highlighted that Indonesia has strong potential to maximize pencak silat’s development, supported by more than 840 martial arts schools across the country. Beyond cultural value, he noted that the sport also offers economic opportunities, particularly through the sports industry and global promotion.

“It is important that government support becomes more impactful, including through industrial development and broader economic contributions,” Erick said. He expressed confidence that sporting achievements would go hand in hand with overall economic growth.

Closing his remarks, Erick stressed the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to achieve shared goals. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to aligning programs with national directives, particularly in advancing pencak silat toward Olympic recognition.

Meanwhile, newly elected IPSI Chairman Sugiono described his appointment as both an honor and a significant responsibility. He pledged to continue the commitment of previous chairman Prabowo Subianto in strengthening national confidence through pencak silat and elevating it to the global stage, including future Olympic participation.