Pencak Silat, the traditional Indonesian martial art, is no stranger to the people of Suriname. However, the Sumatran style of Pencak Silat had remained relatively unknown until recently. To bridge this gap, three Indonesian Pencak Silat masters visited Suriname from December 10–15, 2024, to lead a week-long workshop aimed at introducing the Sumatran martial art and its cultural significance. The event also showcased Sumatran cuisine, offering the Surinamese community a taste of Indonesian culinary delights.
The workshop, aptly titled Pencak Silat and Sumatran Flavors in Suriname, was a collaborative effort between the Pencak Silat fraternity Salamun Alaikum – Siga Sakti Cimande in Suriname and Pencak Silat Minang Harimau Singgalang from Indonesia. Supported by Indonesia’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemdikbudristek), the Surinamese Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture, the Indonesian Embassy in Paramaribo, and the Javanese Community Association of Suriname (VHJI), the event sought to promote cultural exchange and strengthen the bilateral relationship between Indonesia and Suriname.
Martial Arts and Cultural Diplomacy
The main focus of the event was the introduction of the Minang style of Pencak Silat, a martial art from the Sumatran region of Indonesia known for its fluid movements and deep philosophical teachings. Led by renowned Indonesian masters H. Syofian Nadar, Abral Wahyudi, and Ira Dian Mahrani Cibro, the workshop attracted not only Pencak Silat practitioners but also martial artists from other disciplines such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Karate, and Taekwondo.
During the week, participants had the opportunity to learn basic techniques, practice key movements, and delve into the philosophy behind Pencak Silat Minang. This initiative was not only about mastering martial arts techniques, but also about fostering a deeper understanding of Indonesian culture and traditions.
Ambassador Julang Pujianto, representing Indonesia in Suriname, expressed his gratitude to the various parties involved in the successful execution of the program. “I extend my appreciation to all parties who have strengthened people-to-people collaboration between Indonesia and Suriname through this Pencak Silat training program. This initiative plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of our ancestors while fostering closer ties between our two nations,” said Ambassador Pujianto during the closing ceremony.
Culinary Diplomacy: A Taste of Sumatran Cuisine
In addition to the martial arts workshops, the event featured cooking demonstrations that introduced Surinamese participants to iconic dishes from Sumatran cuisine. Dishes such as Rendang, Pempek, and Mie Aceh were showcased in a series of interactive sessions, offering Surinamese attendees a chance to explore new flavors and cooking techniques from the Sumatran region of Indonesia.
While Suriname is already familiar with Javanese dishes like Saoto, Sate, Bami, and Nasi Berkat, the introduction of Sumatran specialties marked a significant step in expanding the cultural palate of the Surinamese public. The cooking demonstrations were conducted with the involvement of the Surinamese mosque community, further connecting the culinary experience with local cultural and religious practices.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The closing ceremony of the Pencak Silat Festival, held at Pendopo Sana Budaya in Paramaribo, was attended by a number of high-ranking Surinamese officials, including Minister of Education, Science, and Culture, Henry Ori, and Commander of the Surinamese Armed Forces, W. Kioe A Sen. Other notable guests included Air Force Lieutenant Colonel M. van Huisduinen and Director of Culture Dweight Warsodikromo, who all expressed their appreciation for the cultural exchange.
This successful week-long cultural initiative not only introduced the people of Suriname to Sumatran martial arts and cuisine but also further solidified the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening the relationship between Indonesia and Suriname.
With its rich history and vibrant traditions, Indonesia continues to use its martial arts and cuisine as powerful tools of soft diplomacy, fostering deeper connections and mutual understanding with countries around the world.