Leslie

Hi there,

If you are looking in particular for Harimau Minangkabau from the Hanofi (sp?) family , the number one place for that specific style within the states is Texas, specifically Dallas and Ft. Worth. Guru Richard DeBordes, who represents that syle in the west, teaches it there several times a year. The resident instructors there are "Doc" Ken Dority, Bill Stutesman, and Kelly Smith. You are welcome to contact me directly for their contact info.

If you are looking for any style of Harimau, then there are many versions to choose from. Harimau just means "tiger," and since the tiger is a very popular mascot or patron ancestor in the east, it is a popular name for martial arts styles. The styles from Sumatera are more traditional in general. In my personal experience visiting Sumatera, they don't usually don't call it Harimau (bahasa Indonesia) and they often use the term Silek, rather than Silat, but I'm sure it varies by style and region. The traditional "tiger" styles of Sumatera usually involve the hard leg training and focus on impact and movement. They are famous for the ground fighting, but that is not the only characteristic.

Styles such as Mande Muda have a base in the traditional, but have incorporated more locking / breaking / grappling like elements. I personally do Mande Muda and love it. I teach in Austin, Texas, but I'm sure there are many other good resources you can find near you. Anyway, I'm happy to help in any way I can.