Dong Nai (VNA) – The 10th Asian Pencak Silat Championship 2026 officially opened in the southern city of Dong Nai on July 17, bringing together nearly 300 athletes from nine Asian countries and territories.
The tournament is jointly organised by the International Pencak Silat Federation (PERSILAT), the Sports Authority of Vietnam, the municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and relevant agencies.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Director of the municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism Le Thi Ngoc Loan said Pencak Silat is not only a traditional martial art of Southeast Asia but also a symbol of sportsmanship, courage, respect and solidarity among nations.
She said the championship offers athletes an opportunity to compete in a spirit of fairness and sportsmanship while promoting exchanges, mutual understanding and friendship among participating countries.
Loan affirmed that the host city would work closely with the Vietnam Sports Authority, the Asian Pencak Silat Federation and relevant agencies to ensure the tournament is professionally and safely organised, contributing to promoting the values of sport for peace and friendship.
Professor Zainuddin, President of the Asian Pencak Silat Federation, described the championship as more than a sporting event, saying it also celebrates a shared heritage, martial spirit, mutual respect and friendship among countries in the region.
Over its 10 editions, the tournament has contributed to the development of Pencak Silat across Asia, he said, affirming the federation’s commitment to preserving and promoting the traditional martial art for future generations.
Zainuddin called on athletes to compete with courage, integrity, discipline and respect for their opponents, and said that beyond medals and championship titles, the tournament’s greatest values lie in friendship, solidarity and unity among Asian nations.
According to the organisers, professional preparations, competition facilities and equipment, along with security, medical care, fire prevention and delegation reception arrangements, have been completed to ensure the championship proceeds safely and as scheduled./.
