Baku:Pencak Silat, Indonesia's traditional martial art recognized by UNESCO, is being used to strengthen diplomatic ties and cultural understanding between Indonesia and Azerbaijan. Berlian Helmy, the Indonesian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, has officially inaugurated the Azerbaijan Pencak Silat Community (APSC).

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the Embassy of Indonesia in Baku now formally recognizes and supports APSC as the sole authority for organizing and managing Pencak Silat activities in Azerbaijan. This recognition is anticipated to garner support from Azerbaijani authorities and ministries, aiming to bolster the sport’s legal standing and develop its domestic framework.

The inauguration ceremony took place in Baku, attended by Indonesian diplomats, sports community representatives, and Azerbaijani journalists. It featured the national anthems of both countries, speeches by Magami Bayramov, President of APSC, and Ambassador Berlian Helmy.

Ambassador Helmy highlighted Pencak Silat's international presence, noting its inclusion in global competitions. He expressed hope that the Azerbaijan Pencak Silat Community would soon train and send athletes to the 21st World Pencak Silat Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from December 5-12.

Magami Bayramov thanked the Indonesian Embassy for its recognition, expressing optimism that it would inspire Azerbaijani athletes to advance the sport and compete in the upcoming World Championship.

The event concluded with the reading and signing of the official inauguration document by the Indonesian ambassador, followed by a group photo with the Community's board members.