TUMPAT — The Kelantan Youth and Sports Secretariat (U-Bes) aims to make horseback archery a well-known sport nationwide, with aspirations for its inclusion in prestigious events such as the Malaysia Games (Sukma).
Kelantan U-Bes assistant director Marwan Husin said that horseback archery is currently not popular in other states and is primarily known in the East Coast regions.
He emphasised the need for a serious introduction of the sport at the state sports council level to promote traditional sports.
“Horseback archery is popular in Kelantan and Terengganu, where we actively encourage youth participation and promote the sport to the general public,” Marwan told Bernama at the International Sunnah Sports Festival (Semutar) held at Pantai Sri Tujoh today.
“To further promote horseback archery, U-Bes is organising the International Sunnah Sports Festival to raise awareness and make it a new attraction for the public,” he added.
Marwan highlighted that horseback archery can evoke the spirit of the Malay warrior era, offering cultural and historical significance.
The International Sunnah Sports Festival, running from May 30 to June 2, features participants from eight countries: Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, Mongolia, South Korea, and Turkiye.
In addition to horseback archery, the festival also includes field archery, amuk parang, and warrior steps, showcasing traditional weapons such as axes, machetes, and spears. — June 1, 2024