Silat (pronounced see-laht, IPA [silat]) is a blanket term to refer to the variety of martial arts indigenous to the Malay Archipelago and the Malay Peninsula, which includes countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.  The term pencak silat (rough pronunciation pen-chalk see-laht, IPA [ˈpɛntʃaʔˈsilat]) was chosen in 1948 as a unifying term that compoundedpencak, a word commonly used in central and east Java, with silat, a word employed more frequently in Sumatra and Malaysia.

Because silat adapted over hundreds of years to the environs and conditions of those practicing the art, there is no single, canonical silat style.  However, the shared history and culture of the region have led to a number of common traits including heavy emphasis on bladed weapon use and defense, strikes, joint manipulation, and evasion.  In practice, these characteristics can come together as a fluid, yet surprisingly devastating form of fighting.  Inti Ombak puts people first before form or technique.  One will have the interest, further down the road, to develop a personal style that maximizes one’s strength and body.

Traditionally, instruction of silat included much more than fighting.  Students are expected to have knowledge of healing and meditation.   A complete silat practitioner understands how to destroy, but endeavors to create. Both children and adults will benefit from learning how to become an individual that can problem solve the constant changes in life.

The principles for the system at Inner Wave Pencak Silat are in the translation of the school name:

–Inti = Inner = The individual         –Ombak = Wave = The constant motion of life       –Pencak = Art or The art of      –Silat = Evasion or Problem solving