Silet (which is the international term) is the most popular form of martial arts in Southeast Asia, which also originated in Sumatra. It involves grappling, kicking, and weapons fighting -- all with tremendous respect that practictioners draw from the martial arts form's philosophy. I practice at the Tiger school Harimau of Pencet Silak, which involves more grappling and wrestling. While my Silek master jumped at the idea of having a foreigner like me learn the art form, centuries ago Silek was passed down in secrecy among royal families only. Learning that was a humbling moment.
With the start of the new semester at my school, a fellow teacher and I opened up a new art installation at school called the Chalk Zone, where every week students respond to a question on the board with themes relating to motivation and inspiration. This is all performed in an attempt to promote emotional wellness and to jump start the new year with positivity!
