SHAH ALAM, MALAYSIA – Malaysia’s academic and martial arts legacy continues to reach global prominence as GM Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie, a leading authority in authentic Silat Melayu and combat sports science, has been officially conferred the rank of 11th Dan Grandmaster by the Malaysian Authentic Malay Silat Art Association (PASSMAL). This prestigious honour recognises his dedication to preserving, advancing, and internationalising Malaysia’s traditional martial art heritage.
Currently serving as Associate Professor at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Dr. Nizam is also the President of the International Conference of Martial Arts and Combat Sports Scientific Society (IMACSSS) 2020 & 2024, the world’s foremost platform for scholarly research in martial arts and combat sports. In 2022, he was named “Expert Professor of Martial Arts” by the European Martial Arts Committee, and awarded the Medal for Extraordinary Achievements in Martial Arts, affirming his global standing as both a scholar and a martial arts grandmaster.
He serves as Chief Editor of the International Martial and Culture Journal, published by Universitas Negeri Padang, and leads UiTM’s Martial Arts & Combat Sports Research Network (RIG) under the AIRBORNE initiative. His pioneering innovation, Silat Tempur™, a structured competition format grounded in authentic Silat Melayu techniques, earned Gold at IIDEX2023, reflecting his ability to merge heritage with modern sport science.
Dr. Nizam is actively engaged with UNESCO ICM, ASEAN cultural platforms, and international universities to expand Silat’s academic and cultural footprint. In 2023, he received UiTM’s Anugerah Akademik Universiti 2022 (Creative Writing), the university’s highest academic honour.
“This recognition is both humbling and inspiring,” said Dr. Nizam. “It is not just about titles—it’s about upholding the integrity of authentic Malay Silat, and ensuring it thrives through education, innovation, and global scholarship.”
With keynote lectures in Poland, Portugal, Japan, and Malaysia, Dr. Nizam continues to serve as Malaysia’s academic ambassador for Silat—strengthening its position in global martial arts research and cultural diplomacy.
