JOHOR BAHRU, April 24 — A key figure in bringing the martial art of silat to international audiences, Yayan Ruhian has become a well-established name through Indonesian cinema.
From his debut in Merantau (2009) to The Raid films, his talent has drawn attention from Hollywood and earned him widespread recognition across the region.
The 57-year-old has shared fight scenes with Keanu Reeves in the third instalment of the John Wick film series and also made a cameo in Star Wars: The Force Awakens as Tasu Leech.
In Malaysia, Yayan remains a familiar face, with roles in acclaimed productions such as Mat Kilau: Kebangkitan Pahlawan and recent Gayong works.
Speaking to Malay Mail on silat, Yayan expressed hope that the Gayong films would spark greater interest in the martial art and its cultural roots.
He said that in today’s society, including Malaysia, learning martial arts remains important, with silat standing out as a form of self-defence that can be practised at any age.
“It is best to start as a child, but there is nothing wrong with beginning as a teenager, and even in old age, it is still acceptable — and very much needed.”
He emphasised that silat goes beyond self-defence.
“It is a cultural art form and also a sport.
“There is both giving and receiving within it, and this is very important for future generations to learn,” he said.
“When we learn silat, we are not only learning self-defence — we also become guardians of cultural heritage and Malay culture.”
His presence in Malaysia is set to grow with upcoming projects, including Hunter Eleven: The Awaken, which is currently in principal photography, where he portrays the character Wusha.
Speaking at a press conference for the film at Iskandar Studios recently, he said the project stands out as something different from his previous roles.
He also highlighted that it was an honour to work with Shaolin master and actor Shi Yanneng, who plays the lead character Sadd.
“This is not just an action movie,” he said.
“It is more than just an action movie and more than just a martial arts movie.”
He described the film as a “real” action movie that goes beyond martial arts, focusing on deeper themes rather than just fight choreography.
