Seni Sukma Kencana - what is it?

Assalamualaikum and may peace be upon you. What is Seni Sukma Kencana? Literally, Seni Sukma Kencana means "The Art of the Golden Spirit". It is a form of Malay martial art that centers around the use of the sword as its primary weapon. It is not just swordsmanship per se, but is actually a system that comprises of seven different arts - sword, keris, sundang, jambiyah, spear, archery and hand-to-hand combat.

As I have stated in my previous article, this Art of the Sword has been in my family for generations, and was brought to Peninsular Malaysia by Sheikh Abdul Latif Al-Khalidi of Talu in the 19th century. I am the 5th generation since Sheikh Abdul Latif to inherit this Art. Presently, the first batch of students are learning the Art of the Sword, which takes about 6 months. However, it may take a lifetime to master the skills of the blade.

What makes Seni Sukma Kencana unique is that it teaches the student to counter an attack directly, without having to evade or retreat. In counterattack, the students are taught to move in close and dispatch their opponent. It applies the principle of makan gerak (or ai uchi in Japanese), which basically means to strike (or cut) just as the enemy strikes you. Timing, speed and precision are very important in Seni Sukma Kencana. One's reflexes need to be as sharp as one's sword.

Another important aspect of Seni Sukma Kencana is the principle of membujur lalu melintang patah. This means to deflect rather than to block. In deflecting an attack, one redirects or diverts the attacker's energy and uses it against them. Wheras when one blocks an attack, they absorb the attacker's energy, which causes opposition. This energy economics is very important in a practical situation, especially when one goes up against multiple opponents.

Seni Sukma Kencana is an Art of Peace. It teaches its students to remain calm in all situations. It applies the concept of 101, in which the proponent is taught to look for 100 alternatives for peace before taking the 1 step to draw the sword. True to Malay tradition, Seni Sukma Kencana puts an emphasis on defense rather than offence. Tactically, it is riskier to attack than to defend.