KUCHING – Sarawak’s traditional martial arts are set to gain international exposure as practitioners of Malay Kuntau, Iban Kuntau and Bidayuh Kuntau prepare to compete at the International Martial Arts Contest 2026 (IMAC 2026) in Chungju, South Korea.
The participation is expected to provide an opportunity to promote Sarawak’s martial arts heritage, encourage cultural exchange and inspire younger generations to learn and preserve these traditional disciplines.
Chief Political Secretary to the Sarawak Premier and Tupong Assemblyman Dato Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman said competing on an international platform would allow the Sarawak contingent to exchange knowledge and experience with martial arts practitioners from other countries.
He said international competitions could also motivate participants to continue learning, refining their techniques and developing their abilities in traditional martial arts.
“Competitions are very important in inspiring them to learn martial arts,” he told reporters after officiating at the send-off ceremony for the Sarawak contingent at Kuching International Airport on Tuesday.
The contingent, represented by the Sarawak Kunto Federation, will represent Malaysia at the competition. It comprises 22 people, including 10 athletes, while the remaining members will serve as accompanying officials.
Fazzrudin said international exposure could create opportunities for young people to improve their skills and take traditional martial arts to a higher level.
He also highlighted the value of learning from practitioners overseas, with the competition providing a setting for participants to exchange views and gain exposure to different techniques and approaches.
The event is scheduled to take place in Chungju from October 15 to 18, 2026, with participants from 19 countries expected to take part.
IMAC 2026 features a range of martial arts disciplines, including paired events involving weapons and unarmed techniques, as well as group performances. These formats give participants opportunities to demonstrate technical ability, coordination and discipline through different forms of martial arts.
For Sarawak’s contingent, the event will provide an opportunity to showcase the state’s diverse kuntau traditions beyond Malaysia. Malay, Iban and Bidayuh practitioners each contribute to the wider landscape of traditional martial arts in Sarawak, making their participation a platform for cultural representation as well as sporting development.
Maintaining interest among younger generations remains an important part of keeping traditional practices alive. Opportunities to train, compete and learn from others can help encourage young practitioners to continue developing their skills and understanding of the disciplines.
The contingent’s participation is expected to broaden the international experience of Sarawak’s practitioners while supporting efforts to preserve and pass down kuntau to future generations.
The trip also places the spotlight on the role of traditional martial arts in connecting cultural heritage with opportunities for learning, discipline and personal development among young people.
As the Sarawak team prepares for the contest, its participation will bring Malay, Iban and Bidayuh Kuntau onto an international platform, highlighting the importance of sustaining these traditions while encouraging the next generation to carry them forward. – Sarawak Daily
