A Fighting Chance: the traditional martial arts of Southeast Asia

Every Southeast Asian country contributes to a rich arsenal of traditional martial arts that go beyond mere fighting techniques and are unique in their cultural identity.

“These traditional martial arts represent each of our member countries’ individual cultures and ways of life,” Caleb, a martial arts instructor, explained.

“In both ancient and modern societies, the art of self-defense is recognized for its many benefits that go beyond mere combat and survival. Each martial art form has its own characteristics that mirror the cultural identity of the local people,” he told Thai PBS World.

Focus and discipline

The early Southeast Asians put a high premium on the region’s martial arts heritage, developed by indigenous tribes and influenced by the cultures of neighboring countries and colonization.

These martial art forms were practiced not just as means of self-defense but also as expressions of cultural identity and moral values.

“Important moral values, such as discipline, respect for others, humility, perseverance, and courage, are promoted through the practice of these traditional martial arts,” Caleb added.

“Focus is an important component. A fighter must be fully aware of himself and his surroundings to properly execute the techniques required. A strong emphasis on discipline is also very important – remaining calm under pressure and being able to maintain control over one’s emotions.”

Strength and survival

Behind each of the martial art forms are stories of survival, resistance, and cultural pride. Each tells a story of human creativity, adaptability, and quest for harmony.

“In learning about them, we embrace opportunities to connect with other people, express our sentiments, and learn more about our own potential as human beings. It can lead to personal growth and self-improvement, both physically and mentally,” said one university student.

Caleb agrees.

“The core values of discipline, respect, honor, and humility are highly regarded by those who practice these forms of martial art. These core values are important in attaining personal inner strength. Mastery can never be achieved without proper discipline. Respect for others is as equally important as respect for oneself. Learning from and accepting one’s mistakes keep one’s pride and ego at bay. Honor represents the moral code of these traditional martial arts,” he explained.

Diversity and tradition

Southeast Asian martial art forms, while possessing certain commonalities, each remain unique in its techniques, philosophy, and culture.

Indonesia and Malaysia both have the Pencak Silat. This is not just a fighting technique but also a performance art accompanied by traditional music and intricate costumes.

“Taking in a variety of fighting styles such as striking, grappling, and weapon handling, this martial art form features fluid and graceful movements. It plays a crucial role in community life, serving as a means of self-defense, spiritual practice, and cultural expression. It has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage,” Amir, a university student and athlete, told Thai PBS World.

In Cambodia, the traditional martial art is known as Bokator, which isone of the oldest sports in the country.

According to Sambat, a university professor, “it grew in popularity after being featured in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games years ago. This traditional Cambodian martial art combines boxing and wrestling techniques, and sometimes uses weapons such as spears, swords, or machetes.”

The Philippines, meanwhile, has the Arnis, sometimes also called Kali or Eskrima. Pamela, who holds a degree in Sports and Human Kinetics, demonstrated to Thai PBS World the basic stances of the Arnis using two rattan sticks.

“This martial art sometimes uses weapons as tools. Speed and accuracy are important in his hand-to-hand combat,” she said.

Myanmar, on the other hand, takes pride in its martial art form called Bando, which mimics the movements of certain animals, such as bulls, monkeys, tigers, cobras, and eagles.

“It emphasizes defense over offense. Some empty-handed techniques can also be employed, but this martial art often uses tools, such as knives, spears, sticks, and swords,” said one local. Another pride of Myanmar is the Lethwei, which is an ancient martial art form also known as “bare-knuckle boxing”.

But perhaps the most famous Southeast Asian martial art is Thailand’s Muay Thai which is more popularly known as Thai kickboxing.

“It is so popular that it is also considered a tourist attraction. Visitors from different countries watch a kickboxing tournament while they are here,” Lek, a tuk-tuk driver in Bangkok, said.

Considered a national sport, Muay Thai is derived from an ancient martial art known as Muay Boran. It involves the use of hands, feet, elbows, and knees in combat, through an assortment of punches, kicks, strikes, and blows.

Challenges and opportunities



These regional martial art forms are never without challenges, including the declining number of experienced trainers. One opportunity, however, is the growing interest of the young people.

“There are now online resources for those who are interested in any of these martial art forms regardless of geographic location. Many opportunities are opening up. By supporting each other’s efforts, enthusiasts can help ensure that these traditions will continue to thrive for future generations,” Caleb stressed with pride

(This story is part of a series about the vanishing cultural traditions in Southeast Asia.)