“Based on the art of war” is the best way to describe a Southeast Asian martial art form known as Seni Gayung Fatani. This “hybrid” combat form is said to have originated from Malaysia. Apparently, the term Seni means art, Gayung implies martial arts, and Fatani according to Arabic means wise. Furthermore, this combat form comprises of a set syllabus which as of today consists of seven basic levels. In addition, the first grandmaster title in the Seni Gayung Fatani was earned by Guru HJ Anuar Abd Wahab in the year 1976.

a. History/origin of the Seni Gayung Fatani:

According to the cultural history of Malaysia, the Seni Gayung Fatani was first developed within the Malay Empire. It was first introduced in Malaysia in the state of Kedah by Syeikh Abdul Rahman in the year 1840. Furthermore, it was the son of Rahman Tok Rah Ramli who helped in the evolution of this combat form. In addition, it was Rahman’s student Pak Teh Mat Ali who taught this combat form to Pak Andak Embong who then passed it on to Tuan Guru Anuar Abdul Wahab who became the first grandmaster of this martial art form. It was in 1976 that an organization for this combat form was created as per the Government Club Act which was called the “Seni Gayung Fatani Association”.

b. Weapon used in the Seni Gayung Fatani:

Since this combat form mainly involves the use of “striking” techniques the weapon mainly used involves the “hands and feet” of the fighter.

c. Technique involved in the Seni Gayung Fatani and training availability:

In terms of technique, a fighter in this form of combat basically uses “striking and grappling” techniques to overcome an opponent. And so moves such as kicking, punching, and joint locking are frequently made use of by the fighter. As for training centers/schools, there are a few available especially in Malaysia for those interested in learning this “hybrid” martial art form.

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