At PB IPSI inauguration, Gus Nabil says martial artists must uphold noble character

Pencak silat should not be understood only as physical ability and self-defense technique, Muchamad Nabil Haroen said after the inauguration of the Indonesian Pencak Silat Association’s 2026-2030 executive board in East Jakarta.

Speaking at the Padepokan Pencak Silat Indonesia in Taman Mini Indonesia Indah on Saturday, Nabil appeared in his trademark blangkon and batik sarong. The outfit reflected his connection to the Nusantara traditions that form part of pencak silat’s cultural roots.

“We inherit pencak silat from our ancestors not only as a self-defense technique, but as a path to forming human beings,” he said. He described the discipline as combining courage without arrogance, strength controlled by moral character and fellowship that reaches beyond differences between schools and regions.

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We inherit pencak silat from our ancestors not only as a self-defense technique, but as a path to forming human beings.

Nabil, who chairs the central leadership of Pagar Nusa, said pencak silat carries a major responsibility for shaping young people who are brave, disciplined, humble, respectful toward teachers and devoted to their country. He said those values should guide athlete development, competitions and the organization’s growth.

“Achievement is an important goal, but pencak silat must not lose its soul. A martial artist must be physically strong, mentally mature and noble in character,” Nabil said. He also urged all board members to support PB IPSI Chairman Sugiono under one vision, without pursuing personal agendas or the interests of individual schools.

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Achievement is an important goal, but pencak silat must not lose its soul. A martial artist must be physically strong, mentally mature and noble in character.