Wilayah Persekutuan & Selangor Branch, Malaysia / April 2009 - Contributor: Fatima R. Tablang

SHORINJI KEMPO AT PHILIPPINE EMBASSY

It has been 6 long years since Shorinji Kempo Wilayah Persekutuan & Selangor West Malaysia ,first introduce at Filipino Workers Resource Center. Its no looking back then for the students who sacrifice their only free time every week. Most of the students are working as domestic helper here in Malaysia. For them, the threat of violence against foreign worker is very real. And by learning the art, these students become more alert and confident in what ever they do. Discipline has inculcated in their mind and tolerance among each other has been tremendously improved. It becomes one of their favorite past time activities to stay healthy and also where they meet their friends to share their frustration, problem and experience in their everyday work.

I come to realized that these students came to Malaysia to seek greener pasture but some of them are not so lucky like the others. The Branch Master of Shorinji Kempo Wilayah Persekutuan & Selangor West Malaysia, Sensei Yacob Gabriel Samson helps these students to overcome their fears and homesickness. He provides guidance and counseling for them as well. The dojo becomes their second home where occasionally use for gathering like birthdays of their fellow kenshis.

There is no doubt that Sensei Yacob enjoys teaching these women for free for the past six years. Filipino Workers Resource Center is run by Philippine Embassy to provide upgrading skills to all migrant Filipino workers here in Malaysia.

It was established in1995 to help the migrants to improve their skill that will someday benefit them when they go back in their own country. Number of students learning shorinji kempo grew steadily since it was introduce in 2003. Sitting for exams, outdoor picnic, sports, beauty contest are among the activities makes the class more enjoyable. Shorinji Kempo is one big happy family and still growing. Something that the students will always remember even after going back in their own respected country.

 

TOP