Competition plays a vital role in preserving, developing, and promoting Pencak Silat. It helps raise awareness of the art both locally and internationally. In modern Pencak Silat tournaments, winners are determined based on points earned through effective attacks and defenses. The scoring system encourages precision, control, and mastery of technique.
Basic Pencak Silat Rules:
Match Duration & Timing
- Matches consist of 3 rounds of 2 minutes each. For 17 and under, matches are usually 1:30 minutes each.
Pre-Match Rituals
Upon entering the arena, each athlete must:
- Hormat (Salute) the Wasit (Referee) first.
- Hormat (Salute) the Ketua Pertandingan (Competition Chairman) next.
- Perform 8 Silat movements before the match begins.
Scoring System
- 1 Point for Punches – A successfully landed punch earns 1 point.
- 2 Points for Kicks – Each successful kick scores 2 points, reflecting the greater difficulty and risk.
- 3 Points for Sweeps & Takedowns – The highest-scoring techniques:
- A successful sweep or takedown earns 3 points.
- Counter-Attacks & Reversals – If an opponent successfully counters your takedown by reversing and throwing you instead, they will score 3 points instead of you.
Rules of Engagement
- One-Hand Grab Rule – Competitors may only grab their opponent’s vest with one hand. This adds a layer of complexity to grappling, requiring skill and control.
- No Strikes to the Face – Strikes to the face are strictly prohibited to maintain safety and sportsmanship.
Uniform & Attire
- Competitors must wear all-black uniforms.
- If an athlete or coach enters the arena inappropriately dressed, they will be given only 10 minutes to change before entering the arena.
Penalties & Reprimands (-1 Point Deduction)
An athlete will receive a Reprimand (-1 point deduction) for committing any of the following infractions:
- Scratching and pulling the opponent’s hair/scarf.
- Technical Counting by Wasit, including:
- Due to a valid attack.
- Due to poor fitness.
- Failing to be in ready position upon Wasit’s command.
- Time-delaying tactics, such as:
- Moving unnecessarily slow.
- Tying hair when it is not loose.
- Adjusting shin/forearm guards when not required.
- Removing medical tape randomly.
- Attacking after the end of a round:
- If an athlete continues an attack after the gong or Wasit’s call of time, it will be considered illegal.
- Avoiding the opponent by hiding behind the Wasit purposely, without touching.
- Grabbing the vest, hand, or shirt with two hands.
Disqualifications (Immediate Match Forfeit)
An athlete will be disqualified for the following offenses:
- Receiving a Warning III.
- Vomiting in the arena (exceptions apply):
- Allowed: If an athlete runs to the corner and vomits in the bucket.
- Allowed: If vomiting occurs between rounds in the bucket at the corner coach box.
- Engaging in unsportsmanlike behavior during the match.
- Failing to stop offensive actions once the Wasit has called for a stop.
- Taking longer than 10 minutes to change their uniform before entering the arena.
- Refusing to continue the match despite being cleared to continue by the Medical Team.
- Wasit conducting Technical Counting for the third time in a single round.
- Physically or verbally abusing any of the following during the ongoing match:
- ITD (Technical Delegate)
- Wasit & Juri
- Protest Commissioner
- Match Operator
- Performing dangerous illegal throws, including:
- Pile Driving (12-6) or Suplex, where the opponent falls neck first.
- Failing to meet weight during weigh-in.
- Failing a doping test.
- Failing to pass the medical check-up.
- Showing tantrums (during the game, break time, or post-game).
Challenges & Protests
- Each competitor/team may challenge twice per match.
- Coaches may only stand to protest and must remain seated during the match.
Coach Regulations
- Coaches must wear a black and orange belt for identification.
- Coaches cannot talk to competitors during the match.