What is Pencak Silat?

Pencak Silat is a traditional martial art originating from Indonesia and widely practiced throughout Southeast Asia. More than a combat system, Pencak Silat combines self-defense techniques, physical fitness, mental discipline, cultural traditions, artistic movement, and moral values.

For centuries, Pencak Silat has been used to develop character, respect, self-confidence, and community spirit. Today, it is practiced as a martial art, cultural heritage, competitive sport, and educational tool in dozens of countries around the world under the leadership of the International Pencak Silat Federation.

In 2019, Pencak Silat was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its cultural significance and contribution to education, social cohesion, and the transmission of traditional values.

PROJECT SUMMARY

Guardian Girls Pencak Silat (GGPS) is a global project of GGI developed in partnership with the International Pencak Silat Federation (IPSF) to empower and safeguard women and girls through Pencak Silat while promoting gender equality and preventing gender-based violence. Officially launched in Jakarta, Indonesia, on May 18, 2026, GGPS works through IPSF’s national member federations and Guardian Girls national committees to deliver instructor training, leadership development, safeguarding education, and community programs. By combining the values of Pencak Silat with women’s empowerment initiatives, GGPS supports the advancement of UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) while promoting and preserving Pencak Silat as a living cultural heritage.

MISSION STATEMENT

To promote gender equality and prevent gender-based violence by empowering women and girls through Pencak Silat.

Global Partner

International Pencak Silat Federation (IPSF) is the world governing body for Pencak Silat. Founded on March 11, 1980, in Jakarta, Indonesia, IPSF is responsible for the international development, promotion, and governance of Pencak Silat worldwide.

IPSF works with its national member federations across more than 60 countries to organize international championships, develop technical standards, certify officials, and expand participation in the sport. It also promotes the cultural and educational values of Pencak Silat while supporting its recognition and growth within the global sports community.

Headquartered at the Padepokan Pencak Silat Indonesia in Jakarta, IPSF plays a leading role in preserving and advancing Pencak Silat as both a traditional cultural heritage and a modern international sport. The organization is currently led by Prabowo Subianto as President.

OBJECTIVES

  • Prevent gender-based violence (GBV)
    Equip women and girls with practical self-protection skills, confidence, and awareness to reduce their vulnerability to violence.

  • Advance gender equality
    Promote equal opportunities and greater participation of women and girls in Pencak Silat and society, contributing to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality).

  • Empower women through sport
    Build physical fitness, mental resilience, self-confidence, discipline, and leadership through structured Pencak Silat training.

  • Develop women leaders and instructors
    Train and certify female instructors who can deliver GGPS Seminars and Academies while serving as mentors and role models in their communities.

  • Promote safe and inclusive sports
    Foster safeguarding, respect, inclusion, and athlete welfare by creating environments where women and girls can participate safely in sports.

  • Preserve and promote Pencak Silat
    Increase appreciation of Pencak Silat as a cultural heritage and modern sport while expanding women's participation worldwide.

  • Strengthen partnerships
    Collaborate with governments, UN agencies, national Pencak Silat federations, educational institutions, NGOs, and local communities to maximize social impact.

  • Build sustainable community programs
    Establish long-term GGPS Seminars, Academies, instructor courses, and outreach activities that empower women and girls at the grassroots level.