Singapore recently served as the vibrant stage for the inaugural Singapore Shaolin Cultural Festival and the 2nd Asian Shaolin Games, illuminating the city-state with the power and grace of martial arts. Organized by the Singapore Wushu Dragon and Lion Dance Federation, this dynamic two-day event attracted Shaolin Kung Fu enthusiasts worldwide to demonstrate their martial arts prowess and foster cultural connections.
Over 300 competitors from 12 countries and regions, including China, Singapore, Indonesia, and the U.S., competed in the games, showcasing their dedication to Shaolin Kung Fu’s intricate discipline.
Among the skilled competitors, 12-year-old Li Jianbin from Singapore emerged as a bright star, seizing three gold medals. Having dedicated himself to Kung Fu since the tender age of four, Li envisions a future as a professional martial artist. Li credits Shaolin Kung Fu for nurturing his resilience and courage.
Shaolin Kung Fu’s worldwide appeal transcends borders, reaching individuals of different backgrounds and ages. The discipline is taught at Shaolin Temple in China and various international cultural centers, fostering physical prowess, perseverance, and determination.
Sewa Khasraw Sleman and her husband Rekar Abubakr Abdalrahman, a devoted Kung Fu couple from Iraq, are testament to the martial art’s international reach. Sewa and Rekar embarked on a long journey to participate in the Singapore event, inspired by their deep respect for Shaolin culture.
“We hope that more people passionate about Shaolin culture can come together to contribute to its better inheritance and development,” expressed Guo Zhifeng, an organizer of the games, the headmaster of the Singapore Shaolin Cultural Center, and the founder of the Singapore Shaolin Club.
In addition to the games, the event also featured a cultural sharing session, where attendees could learn from Shaolin experts. The Secretary of Shaolin Temple, Yan Pei, delivered keynote speeches, and respected Shaolin monks provided training certification and on-site guidance to participants.
Over the years, Shaolin Kung Fu culture has significantly enhanced cultural exchanges within the Asian region. These strides include charity tours by Shaolin monks in Malaysia and visits by Abbot Shi Yongxin to the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, and Malaysia. Recently, Shaolin Temple in Zambia organized the first-ever African Shaolin Kung Fu Games, promoting the martial art and cultural exchange on the African continent.
The Singapore event underscored Shaolin Kung Fu’s ability to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds, amplifying its global popularity and reaffirming its profound impact on personal growth and cultural exchange.
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