Betawi women mastered martial arts for self-defense and resistance

In the historical Betawi community, the martial art known as 'maen pukulan,' a form of pencak silat, was deeply ingrained, particularly among women, as a vital means of self-defense. This tradition served not only to protect against everyday crime but also as a method to resist oppression, especially during nighttime when women were more vulnerable to harassment and assault.

Women diligently learned 'maen pukulan,' progressing from fundamental stances to the most advanced techniques. Folklore frequently featured formidable female warriors who bravely defended the downtrodden and stood against unjust rulers, embodying the principle of 'amar ma'ruf nahi munkar' (enjoining good and forbidding wrong).

One such renowned female warrior was Mirah, who earned the moniker 'lioness of Marunda' for her exceptional courage and skill in the 'giksaw' style. Mirah is portrayed not merely as a figure of gender emancipation but as a true warrior. Her village, Marunda, situated on the coast, was historically a base for the Mataram Sultanate's forces during their campaigns against Batavia in the 17th century.