Silat is a form of martial art popular in Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines, and Singapore. It is also popular in some areas of Thailand and Cambodia as well.

Silat is believed to have originated in Sumatra. The history of this form of martial art too is unclear like all the other martial art forms. But all the theories point to the fact that it originated in modern Indonesia. Silat resembles many martial art forms from countries like India and China. Many Silat techniques are influenced by martial art forms prevalent in India. Hinduism and Buddhism too have a lot of influence on it. As trade relations increased with the province of Okinawa in Japan, the Indonesians came in constant touch with the Japanese and Silat too was influenced by Karate. Surprisingly, Silat is also popular in Netherlands as Indonesia was a Dutch colony for many years. It is also popular in some other European countries including France. Many techniques in this discipline have been devised after observing animals. This is true in cases of many oriental martial art disciplines including China. Eagle and Tiger are two of the prime examples of animals that have influence on Silat. It has many schools and a few styles where subtle differences can be seen.

This martial art has been in practice since many years. But the modern founder of this discipline is said to be a man named R.M.S Dirdjoatmodjo who popularized a form of Silat called as Silat Perisai Diri. He traveled extensively within Indonesia to study the Indonesian culture as well as the martial art forms. There are many forms of martial arts prevalent in Indonesia. Silat advocates the use of many traditional weapons. It is a martial art in which kicks are not frequently used. The emphasis is given on footwork and balance. The exponents of this form undergo rigorous training under the able guidance of a master.

Even though it looks similar to many other martial arts of the Orient, Silat has subtle differences in fighting techniques as well. Physical and mental alertness are essential to perfect the art of Silat. Mental fitness is strengthened by using various meditation techniques. Silat practitioners are given training which helps them improve physically, mentally, and spiritually. It has influences from various traditions like Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam. Silat practitioners are also taught to fight with various weapons. Animal style fighting techniques are quite unique to this form of martial arts. Apart from its popularity in Indonesia, Silat is as popular in Holland as Karate is popular in America. The masters of this martial art are trying their best to increase its popularity across the globe.