1. Origin

Makahi which denotes self-defense is a basic movement executed gracefully, gently for defense or offense purposes. Then, the Makahi game is amalgamations of both defense from opponents and attacking the enemies. The Makahi is intended to train people to build resistance against other‘s violence and develop self-fast reaction to attack.   This game can be found in Halmahera, North Maluku district.

2. Players

The Makahi game can be practiced and performed by men either children or adults which consist of two people (a pair) at least. During the process, an observer which is usually acted by adult will serve as a judge.

3. Place and Tools

The Makahi constitutes a simple game as it requires nothing except hand and foot. Like war equipment, these parts of body will serve as sword and shield. It is usual to perform the Makahi game during Ramadan month (Moslem fasting month) in seashore or house yard.        

4. Rule and Process

Before commencing the Makahi game, there are several rules should be abided by each players;

1. Each player will be arranged according to their number in order (to decide who fight who)
2. It is prohibited to wear rings or other sharp materials which can endanger other and shoes
3. Should wear waistband   

The judge will ask two players for entering the arena and check players‘ preparedness; physical condition, wearing etc. The players will strike each other by locking the opponent, anticipating, defending, and attacking after getting sign from the judge. The winner will be decided on the basis of overall points which can be obtained through direct knocking (touch the opponent body).          

5. Cultural Values

The Makahi is meant not only as a self-defense technique, but also to inculcate the participants with values of hard work, and to instill in them the qualities skill, and fairness. Blocking opponent attack, endeavor to get more points, wholehearted acceptance to be either loser or winner are the indicators signaled those embedded values.    

Source

Suradi Hp, dkk, 1981, Perainan Rakyat Maluku. Ambon: Departemen Pendidikan dan Kebudayaan.

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