Aikido Now In Brunei
By James Kon

Bandar Seri Begawan - Aikido, the Japanese form of martial arts has reached the shores of Brunei Darussalam with the officialregistration of the Aikido Federation (of Brunei Darussalam) on August 13.

Aikido is a Japanese form of martial art developed by Morihei Ueshibahistory.

On a purely physical level, it is an art involving some throws and joint locks that are derived from Jusitsu and Kenjutsu. Aikido focuses not on punching or kicking opponents but using their own energy to gain control of the opponent.

"The Way of Harmony of the Spirif' is one way that "Aikido" may be translated into English, where upon closer assessment, practitioners will find from Aikido what they are looking for, whether it is an applicable form of self-defence and spiritual enlightenment, physical health or peace of mind.

Aikido was first introduced in Brunei in 2004 by Sensei Andrew Nisbett, who holds a 2nd Dan Black Belt.

However, Sensei Andrew Nisbett had to return to England early 2005.

Currently, Aikido training sessions are being conducted by Aikikai Malaysia from the neighbouring States of Sarawak and Sabah, who come to Brunei regularly to conduct training lessons.

Two Aikido martial art experts from Malaysia have arrived in Brunei to lend a helping hand in providing the right teaching techniques for local Aikido practitioners.

The two Aikido experts are Zainuddin Abdul Khalic, 3`d Dan and Razi Pahlavi 2nd Dan (Vice President).

Although Aikido is still a new sport in Brunei Darussalam, the number of followers are gradually growing.

At the moment, there are more than 20 local practitioners who train regularly three times a week with the Aikido Federation of Brunei Darussalam.

According to Sensei Zainuddin, there is plenty of potential for Aikido to develop in Brunei just like in Malaysia, where more and more people are picking up the form of martial art.

He said that Aikido promotes harmony with the aim at.redirecting the opponent's strength and not an element for chasing and attacking.

Everyone can take part in Aikido especially women and children because Aikido is a good form of self-defence. Aikido alsoteaches an individual to control one's temper.

Local martial art enthusiasts who are interested to join Aikido can contact Pg M Alexander (the secretary ofAikido Federation) at 8761396 or 8723501. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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