150 Athletes Light Up GOR Gentala at Aceh Tengah Police Chief Pencak Silat Championship 2026

ACEH TENGAH | INDATANEWS.COM - The spirit of Indonesia's 80th Bhayangkara Day celebrations was strongly felt in Aceh Tengah as hundreds of young athletes and spectators gathered at GOR Gentala, Merah Mersa Village, Lut Tawar District, on Friday, June 19, 2026.

Around 150 athletes from various regions took part in the Pencak Silat Championship for the Aceh Tengah Police Chief's Cup 2026, turning the sports hall into a vibrant arena of tradition, discipline, and competitive spirit.

The event not only served as a sporting competition but also as a platform to preserve and promote Pencak Silat, Indonesia's traditional martial art, among the younger generation.

Official Opening By Aceh Tengah Police Chief

The opening ceremony was marked by a formal gong strike by Aceh Tengah Police Chief, AKBP Muhamad Taufiq, S.I.K., M.H., officially signaling the start of the tournament.

The moment was met with enthusiastic applause from athletes, coaches, officials, and invited guests, as GOR Gentala transformed into a lively stage filled with energy and anticipation.

In his remarks, AKBP Muhamad Taufiq emphasized that the Bhayangkara Day commemoration is not only a reflection of police service but also an opportunity to strengthen ties with the community.

"This tournament provides a positive platform for young people to grow, achieve success, and stay away from negative influences," he stated.

Youth Development And Cultural Preservation

Chair of the organizing committee, Irmi Bukit, S.Pd.I., M.H., highlighted the cultural importance of Pencak Silat as a national heritage.

According to him, the martial art embodies discipline, courage, mental strength, sportsmanship, and brotherhood—values essential for shaping the character of young athletes.

The championship is also seen as a strategic effort to identify emerging talents from elementary to high school levels across Aceh Tengah and surrounding areas.

Strong Institutional Support And Future Talent

The event was attended by various regional stakeholders, including representatives from the Aceh Tengah Police, the Indonesian Military District Command (Dandim 0106 Aceh Tengah), members of the Regional House of Representatives, the Youth and Sports Office (Dispora), KONI, as well as referees, judges, and participating teams.

AKBP Muhamad Taufiq further stressed that true victory in Pencak Silat goes beyond trophies.

"A true champion is not only the one who wins, but the one who shows self-control, respects decisions, and honors opponents," he added.

The event featured dynamic performances by IPSI Aceh Tengah athletes, further energizing the audience and highlighting the region's strong martial arts culture.

Hope For New Champions

With strong enthusiasm and institutional support, the championship is expected to produce new talented athletes who can compete at regional, national, and even international levels.

The event also aims to strengthen the cultural identity of the Gayo community while promoting Aceh Tengah as a center for martial arts development. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Adli Safwan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala

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