Prabowo Steps Down as IPSI Chairman to Focus on Presidency

Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto has officially announced his resignation from the position of Chairman of the Indonesian Pencak Silat Federation (PB IPSI). This decision marks the end of more than three decades of his involvement in the national pencak silat organisation.

The statement was delivered directly at the XVI National Conference (Munas) of IPSI at the JCC in Senayan, Jakarta, on Saturday, 11 April 2026.

Prabowo emphasised that his responsibilities as head of state no longer allow him to fulfil the role effectively within the organisation.

“Praise be to God, today I declare that I request permission not to continue as Chairman of PB IPSI because I am now bearing national duties that consume my time, making it impossible for me to be effective as Chairman of PB IPSI,” said Prabowo.

On that occasion, Prabowo also acknowledged that in recent years he has not been active in carrying out organisational duties.

“I also apologise; for some time now, it can be said that for nearly three years I have not been very active in the forefront,” he stated.

Nevertheless, he affirmed his commitment to continue supporting the development of Indonesian pencak silat, even if no longer in a leadership position.

“But I always support from behind, especially now as president; I believe IPSI will become even more formidable,” he said.

Prabowo assessed that it is time for leadership regeneration within IPSI. He even firmly requested that he not be nominated again in the XVI Munas.

With 34 years of experience in the organisation, from deputy chairman to chairman, he stated his readiness to step down and make way for the next generation.

“I request to take my leave as chairman; previously as deputy chairman, it can be said I have been in IPSI circles for 34 years. And I will continue to support, with or without a position,” he remarked.

In his speech, Prabowo also expressed an apology for not yet succeeding in bringing pencak silat to the Olympics—a major goal that has long been pursued.

“I apologise for not yet succeeding in bringing pencak silat to the Olympics. We continue to strive. I am confident that my successor will succeed in bringing it to the Olympics,” he said.