In the early hours of Saturday, May 13, 2025, the Indonesian martial arts world lost one of its most revered figures. Major General (Ret.) H. Eddie Mardjoeki Nalapraya, lovingly known as the Father of World Pencak Silat, passed away at the age of 93. Born in Batavia (now Jakarta) on June 6, 1931, Eddie dedicated his life to the preservation and global recognition of pencak silat — the traditional martial art rooted deeply in Indonesian culture.
For over two decades, from 1981 to 2003, Eddie served as Chairman of the Indonesian Pencak Silat Association (PB IPSI). During his leadership, pencak silat experienced a golden era. He envisioned a future where the art form would transcend national borders, and he brought that vision to life. Through his tireless efforts, Eddie initiated the formation of the International Pencak Silat Federation (PERSILAT) — a global platform that united silat practitioners from around the world.
His passion led to a series of milestones. Pencak silat was featured for the first time on the international stage at the 1987 Southeast Asian Games. Tournaments spread across Europe, and interest in the martial art grew far beyond Southeast Asia. Eddie’s dream culminated in 2019, when pencak silat was officially recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity — a moment that immortalized the art form in global cultural history.
For his invaluable service, Eddie was awarded the Bintang Mahaputera Pratama in 2010 by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono — one of the highest honors given by the Republic of Indonesia. But more than medals or titles, it was his enduring love for culture and his belief in the power of pencak silat to shape character and identity that defined his legacy.
Eddie Mardjoeki Nalapraya passed away peacefully at Pondok Indah Hospital in South Jakarta, around 09:50 AM. His final resting place will be at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery, among fellow patriots who served the nation with honor.
As the world mourns his passing, we remember not only a leader and cultural icon, but a man whose dedication gave pencak silat a place on the world stage. His spirit will continue to inspire generations of silat warriors to come. (A.F)
