Pencak Silat Competition Rules (Version 7)

As with any sport—especially martial arts or contact sports—there is an inherent risk of injury in Pencak Silat. However, the new competition rules were designed with safety as a top priority. According to the Pencak Silat Rules & Regulations (Version 7), the rules have been refined and tested over multiple international events to minimise unnecessary risks while maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of the sport.

Safety measures include the prohibition of dangerous techniques, strict medical protocols, and clear guidelines for officiating. Medical standby, athlete fitness requirements, and real-time assessments are part of the competition framework to ensure injuries are managed promptly and that participant welfare is protected throughout the match

According to Article 6 and the Code of Ethics for Officials in the Pencak Silat Rules & Regulations (Version 7), coaches are expected to uphold discipline, show respect to technical officials and opponents, and conduct themselves with integrity. They must ensure their athletes understand the rules, adhere to safety protocols, and compete fairly. Coaches are also required to be properly attired, avoid any form of misconduct, and maintain professional behaviour at all times during training and competition

Parents play a crucial part in the holistic development of a pesilat. They can support by ensuring their child is well-rested, punctual for training, maintains a balanced diet, and adheres to medical check-up requirements (as stipulated under Article 19: Medical Protocol). More importantly, providing moral encouragement, reinforcing discipline at home, and maintaining open communication with coaches can greatly enhance a young pesilat's experience and growth in the sport

Yes. The rules accommodate youth participation. Article 14.5 outlines the Age, Weight & Duration of Match, categorising athletes by age and ensuring matches are conducted fairly within age-appropriate brackets. Many competitions include junior categories, making it safe and suitable for younger children to participate and grow progressively within the sport.

In Pencak Silat, athletes (called pesilat) earn points for performing valid techniques with control, accuracy, and impact. The judging panel—made up of certified referees and juries (Wasit-Juri)—award points based on the following:

• 1 Point:

  • Clean and controlled hand strike to the scoring area

• 2 Points:

  • Clean and controlled kick to the scoring area

• 3 Points:

  • Valid dropping or sweeping technique that results in the opponent falling

Points can also be deducted for rule violations or misconduct.

Scoring is based on a combination of performance, control, technique, and legality—not just aggression. The system rewards technical skill and discipline.
(Refer to Article 14.6 & Appendix 7 of the PERSILAT Rules)

The scoring area is clearly defined in the Pencak Silat Rules & Regulations (Version 7). Points are awarded only when techniques land cleanly on valid target zones. Valid scoring areas include:

• Front and side of the torso (above the waist and below the shoulders)

• Chest and ribs area

• Abdomen area

• Sides of the body (flanks)

These areas are typically protected by a body protector (body guard) during matches. Attacks must land cleanly, with good form and control, to these zones to earn points.

No Points Are Given (and may incur penalties) if:

• The technique lands on the back, neck, face, groin, or joints

• The strike is too light or uncontrolled

• The athlete uses illegal or unsafe techniques

(Refer to Appendix 7 and the section on Valid Scoring Area in the PERSILAT Rules)

To protect athletes, certain actions are strictly prohibited and can result in penalties, disqualification, or referee stoppage. These include:

• Attacks to the neck, groin, back of the head, or joints

• Illegal submissions or locks meant to cause injury

• Pile-driving, suplexes, or throws targeting the head

• Pulling hair, scratching, or grabbing clothing improperly

• Striking after the referee has called for a stop

• Stepping out of the arena repeatedly

• Unsportsmanlike behaviour (e.g. taunting, disrespect)

Younger athletes and beginners are especially protected. Referees are trained to intervene early and prioritise safety over competitiveness.
(Refer to Article 10 & Appendix 8 of the PERSILAT Rules)

Yes. Glasses are forbidden in the new rules, unless it is a sport goggle with elastic band. Soft contact lenses can be worn at athletes’ own risk.

1. Receiving a Warning III.

2. Vomiting in the arena.

a. If athlete runs to the corner and vomit in the bucket, it is allowed.

b. If athlete vomits in between round, in the bucket at the corner coach box, it is

acceptable.

3.  An athlete shall not engage in any unsportsmanlike behaviour during a match.

Once the Wasit has called for a stop to the brawl, athletes shall cease all offensive

actions towards their opponent.

4. If athlete takes longer than 10-minutes to change their uniform during games.

5. Refusing to continue the match although the Medical Team declare them fit to continue.

6. Wasit to conduct Technical Counting for the third time in a round.

7. An athlete, or team official and supporter physically or verbally abuses the ITD, Wasit-Juri & Protest Commissioner and Operator during the ongoing match.

8. Pile Driving (12-6) or Supplex, where opponent fall neck first.

9. Failing to Meet Weight during Weighing-In

10. Failing the Doping Test

11. Failing to Pass Medical Check-up

12. Showing Tantrum (during game, break time or post game)

a. Leaving the arena due to unhappiness

b. Kicking the pail/bucket

c. Destroying competition equipment

d. Using/hurling vulgarities to opponent, Technical Officials on duty, or Corner Coach.

There are four categories of rule violations:

• Light

• Moderate

• Serious

• Disqualification

When a serious violation occurs, the athlete (pesilat) will typically be penalised 5 points. If the same serious offence is repeated, a second warning (Warning II) will result in a 10-point deduction. A third violation (Warning III) leads to disqualification.

These penalties are part of the standard rules to ensure fairness and safety in the match. For more details, you may refer to the Pencak Silat Competition Rules Handbook (Version 7).