Advancing Silat as a Scientific Combat Sport: Integrating Sport Science, Digital Innovation, and Society 5.0 in Malaysia

DOI

10.2991/978-2-38476-591-1_12How to use a DOI?

Keywords

Silat; combat sport; sport science; innovation; Society 5.0; digital transformation; Malaysia

Abstract

Silat constitutes a significant element of Malaysia’s intangible cultural heritage, yet its transformation into a modern competitive sport introduces multidimensional challenges related to standardization, performance optimization, and knowledge integration. This study critically examines the current state and future trajectory of Silat research and innovation within the framework of Society 5.0, which emphasizes the convergence of human-centered values and advanced digital technologies. Guided by Bishop’s Applied Research Model for Sport Sciences, this paper adopts a conceptual and analytical approach to evaluate three principal domains of Silat practice: Silat Olahraga (competitive sport), Silat Tempur (combat application), and Silat EVO (digitally augmented evolution). The analysis highlights existing gaps in empirical research, particularly in biomechanics, physiological profiling, and performance analytics, which remain underexplored compared to other combat sports [1], [2]. Furthermore, the integration of digital technologies such as motion tracking, artificial intelligence, and data-driven coaching systems is identified as a critical pathway for enhancing athlete development and competitive outcomes [3], [4]. Within the Society 5.0 paradigm, Silat innovation must also balance technological advancement with cultural sustainability, ensuring the preservation of traditional values while promoting global competitiveness [5]. This paper proposes a strategic research framework that prioritizes interdisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based training models, and digital transformation aligned with sport science principles. The findings contribute to the development of a sustainable and globally relevant Silat ecosystem, reinforcing its position as both a cultural asset and a scientifically grounded sport discipline.

Copyright

© 2026 The Author(s)

Open Access

Open Access This chapter is licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/), which permits any noncommercial use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license and indicate if changes were made.

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TY  - CONF
AU  - Mohammad Nizam Mohamed Shapie
AU  - Khairun Nizam Mohammad Yusuff
AU  - Ardo Okilanda
PY  - 2026
DA  - 2026/06/24
TI  - Advancing Silat as a Scientific Combat Sport: Integrating Sport Science, Digital Innovation, and Society 5.0 in Malaysia
BT  - Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference of Sport Science, Sport Coaching Science, and Physical Education, and Recreation 2025 (ICOSSCOPER 2025)
PB  - Atlantis Press
SP  - 126
EP  - 134
SN  - 2352-5398
UR  - https://doi.org/10.2991/978-2-38476-591-1_12
DO  - 10.2991/978-2-38476-591-1_12
ID  - Shapie2026
ER  -