Tji Monjet
Tji Monjet is a style of martial art that imitates the actions of a monkey or ape. Known also as “ape style” or translated as “beautiful monkey”, it hails from West Java, Indonesia. It is one of over 150 styles of martial arts that are native to the country, some of which have been heavily influenced by the Chinese martial arts. However, it is believed that though Tji Monjet was developed with such influence, it is still a traditional martial art style that is proudly Indonesian, and that falls under the larger category of Pukulan.
Techniques and Movements of Tji Monjet
Tji Monjet is characterized by its movements and techniques that are executed from low stances, with the body close to the ground. There is crawling, rolling, jumping and leaping, all to imitate the actions of a monkey or ape. A certain level of flexibility is required for practitioners of Tji Monjet, as well as having springy steps. While most training is empty handed, there are some traditional weapons that are used.
Like all martial arts from Indonesia, practitioners often participate in matches between rival schools (traditionally, it was not schools but rather villages). These are stylized and may be part of a festive occasion, during which the competition takes place near the end of festivities. It can be regarded as the main attraction, and is accompanied by traditional music mainly comprised of drumming. In competitions between rival villages, it was no uncommon for a bout to end in death.