Martial Arts Camp Expands Horizon

Pencak Silat exponents, Nur Aniqah Qistina Roslan (Secondary 1), Nur Shaqira Sheik Alau’ddin, Rifqah Mursyidah Mistam (both Secondary 2) and Nadhrah Sahrin (Secondary 5), came face to face with many other world martial arts enthusiasts from 3 other countries – Malaysia, The Philippines and Korea – but they did not gather to compete. Instead, the youths from 4 countries came together at the 4th International Youth Online Martial Arts Camp to collaborate and learn about different forms of martial arts, as well as to share their culture and heritage through martial arts. The 3-day camp was held online by UNESCO International Centre of Martial Arts for Youth Development and Engagement (UNESCO ICM) from 4 to 6 August.

“In the camp, we were able to meet new people and become friends with them. We learned about other forms of martial arts which we may not have known before. We also learned about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how we may apply it in martial arts, such as promoting martial arts as an inclusive sport or as a form of exercise to stay healthy,” shared Shaqira who joined the camp for the first time.

Over the 3-day camp, Shaqira was not just exposed to new sports and skills, she has also seen a better version of herself. She said, “During the camp, I learnt new sports, such as Capoeira and Chidaoba, and calligraphy. I had the opportunity to learn through observing others and tried my best in emulating them. Additionally, I also learnt to have confidence in myself. This will help me in my sport, especially when I am performing in front of others.”

“Overall, my experience was incredible. I met different people and learned new types of martial arts. I should have joined the camp when I was younger. I look forward to attending the camp again, especially when we were able to see one another, face to face,” said Shaqira.