Indonesia's diversity has given rise to various cultural activities and creations. One of these is the country's many traditional sports, played by the various ethnic groups in the country.

If you happen to be a sportsman or woman in Indonesia and are up for new challenges, you should check the following list to experience Indonesia's diversity as you have never had before.

Pencak Silat

The term pencak silat originated from the Malay tradition. Although it's commonly practiced in various regions of Indonesia, the style of pencak silat is recognized across the globe due to its full-body fighting style, which emphasizes various elements such as punching, kicking, and grappling. This martial art was officially introduced in 1987 by the Asian Games.

Jemparingan
Probably one of the most popular traditional sports in Indonesia is Jemparingan, traditional Javanese archery. This activity was already played during the era of Yogyakarta's Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono I.

The archer aims their bow in front of their stomach in the game, and the participant who gets the most bulls-eye wins the competition. You do not stand up in this traditional archery. Instead, you sit down cross-legged and shoot your arrow.

Although it's commonly considered a sport, Jemparingan is also full of philosophical values. Aside from archery, it also has knightly virtues such as enthusiasm, concentration, and self-confidence.

Egrang

Although it's a unique recreational activity, Egrang requires extensive training to master the movements and skills necessary to participate. The sport's origin is unknown, but it uses a pair of bamboo stilts.

Stilts are unique since they have to be balanced on their bodies when used to play. The designs of these objects vary depending on the size and shape of the wearer.

Egrang is considered a child game. Children often race on egrang to play. It also does not require other specific equipment or a place to play.

Various cultural values are intrinsic to the game of stilts, such as hard work, integrity, and perseverance. These values are reflected in the players' attitudes, who are expected to give their all during a match.

Fahombo (Stone Jumping)
In South Nias, a village known as Bawamataluo, stone-jumping is an old tradition that involves jumping over large boulders. Back then, the villagers carried out this activity to improve their skills and capabilities during the tribal-war era to jump over the enemy's border, which happened to be made out of stones.

Pacu Jalur
This cultural event, which is known as Pacu Jalur, is a long-boat race held on a river. The event usually takes place during the Independence Day celebration held in Riau. The race is held on the Batang Kuantan River, which used to be a shipping route during the 17th century.