KUCHING: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu remains underappreciated and relatively unknown among the people here.
This is despite it being practised in Petra Jaya for years, said Tupong PBB Youth chief, Harith Sulhie.
“That’s one reason we’re bringing it to light,” he said at an Aerobics, Karate and Jiu-Jitsu Demonstration Programme held at the compound of Pustaka Negeri Sarawak on Saturday.
“It’s time the wider community sees its potential, both as a sport and a way of life,” he said, hinting that more promotional initiatives are on the cards.
“We’re exploring the possibility of organising a larger-scale demonstration and even hosting karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions in the near future.
“The turnout and positive response today show that there’s real interest, and we want to build on that momentum,” he said.
Over 100 participants came together for the event jointly organised by Gerakan Belia PBB N.6 Tupong, Tempur Jarak Dekat (TJD MMA), and Sarawak Karate-Do Gi Toku Kai association.
It was held to promote self-defence disciplines, healthy living and community engagement, in the presence of Tupong Assemblyman, Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, who is also the Chief Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak.
Participants included the public, martial arts enthusiasts, and representatives from the karate association, alongside an appearance by the CATS Rangers from Cats FM who mingled with the crowd and added to the lively atmosphere.
According to Harith, the initiative aimed to instill an interest in martial arts among youth, particularly in self-defence disciplines that go beyond physical activity.
“Our mission is to instill confidence, discipline, and community spirit through martial arts.
“Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are more than sports as they teach focus, respect and resilience,” he added.
Representatives from the participating martial arts groups also shared their thoughts.
“Our purpose and mission in jointly organising this programme is to foster interest in the sports of karate and jiu-jitsu,” said the President of TJD MMA, Ahmad Khafizulrahman,
“We hope that through this event, these sports will receive the recognition and support they truly deserve.
“With programmes like this, we hope more people will understand what the sport of karate is all about.”
“Our aim is not only to highlight it at the national level, but also to bring it to the international stage,” said Elniesherine Endun Leo, a senpai and a part-time coach for the karate association.
