IT admin head; Kahlil Abdul Hakim uses capoeira to stay in shape
March 25, 2019
Kahlil performing at a ‘Public Roda,’ a communal event where participants from different schools come together to share their love for Capoeira.
Capoeira, a dynamic martial art that originated in Brazil, has deep roots in the traditions brought across the Atlantic by enslaved Africans, driven by an unwavering desire for freedom. It emerged as a powerful form of resistance on plantations, serving as both a physical and mental escape from the bonds of slavery. Despite its rich history, Capoeira faced oppression; it was deemed a social menace and officially banned under the Brazilian Penal Code. The stigma attached to practitioners led to the term “capoeirista” becoming synonymous with terms like “bum,” “bandit,” and “thief.” Yet, this did not deter the capoeiristas. They adapted by practicing in hidden spaces and disguising their movements as dance, preserving the art form against all odds.
Father of two, Kahlil Abdul Hakim, affectionately known as Khal, discovered this vibrant world of Capoeira through his son's interest in the martial art. Initially drawn to the classes as a means to bond with his child, Kahl soon realized that Capoeira is much more than just a martial art cloaked in dance; it embodies a rich cultural heritage that emphasizes respect for community and one another. By day, Kahl serves as the Head of IT and Administration Transformation Office. However, he faced a personal challenge: despite participating in runs, marathons, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, he noticed his weight steadily increasing. “With that kind of weight, I was prone to back and leg injuries, and my posture was really bad,” he admitted. Determined to make a change, Kahl revamped his diet, opting for smaller meals five to six times a day instead of three large ones. He incorporated calisthenics into his evening routine, allowing him to dedicate time to practice Capoeira at night. His dedication paid off, and after some time, one of the instructors invited him to teach children. Now, three years later, he embraces his role as an instructor. Capoeira's growing presence in Malaysia Kahl believes that many Malaysians have yet to fully appreciate the depth of Capoeira. While over ten schools exist, only five actively teach the art form. Monthly, practitioners gather for a ‘Public Roda,’ a communal event where participants from different schools come together to share their love for Capoeira. “At this point, we are all seen as neutrals, and even if you are new, you can still join and play with the experienced fighters,” Kahl explained, noting the supportive atmosphere among participants. No age limit in Capoeira With participants ranging from as young as three years old to those as mature as 46, Kahl emphasizes that there truly is no age limit in Capoeira. “I started at the age of 34, and it’s been four years ever since. Capoeira is all about flexibility, and despite common apprehensions about stretching and handstands, practitioners can still perform simple movements and cartwheels. There are even handicapped practitioners who have been practicing for over two years,” he shared. Kahl's journey exemplifies how Capoeira can be a transformative experience for individuals of all ages, promoting not just physical fitness but also a sense of community and cultural appreciation. |
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