President of the Republic of Indonesia and concurrently the General Chairman of the Indonesian Pencak Silat Association (IPSI), Prabowo Subianto, officially inaugurated the 16th National Deliberation (Munas) of IPSI. This significant event for the martial arts community was held at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) Senayan, Jakarta, on Saturday, April 11.
Marking the occasion with solemnity, Prabowo formally opened the assembly, stating, “By uttering Bismillahirrahmanirrahim, on this afternoon, Saturday, April 11, 2026, I, Prabowo Subianto, President of the Republic of Indonesia, hereby officially open the 16th National Deliberation of the Indonesian Pencak Silat Association.” His declaration set the stage for crucial discussions and decisions concerning the future of the national martial art.
During the deliberation, President Prabowo delivered a pivotal announcement regarding his tenure as IPSI General Chairman. He conveyed his decision not to seek re-election for the position, signaling an impending leadership transition for the esteemed national organization dedicated to Pencak Silat.
Addressing the delegates with a heartfelt message, Prabowo expressed his profound gratitude for their steadfast loyalty and support throughout his period of leadership. “Brothers and sisters, thank you for your loyalty during my leadership. I declare here my request to step down; I apologize, I am not willing to be nominated again,” he stated, clearly indicating his intention to pass on the mantle of leadership.
Looking ahead, Prabowo articulated his unwavering confidence in the future of IPSI’s leadership. He firmly believes in the regeneration of leadership within the national Pencak Silat organization, assuring a smooth and effective transition. “I am confident that there is already a worthy successor generation to continue the leadership baton in IPSI, and I will certainly support PB IPSI going forward,” Prabowo affirmed, pledging his continued backing for the association’s progress and the ongoing development of Indonesian martial arts.