What is a jatuhan in pencak silat?
I · Intermediate · The match · 2 of 7A jatuhan, or drop, scores 3 points. It is valid when the opponent lands with three points of contact from the knees up, from a sweep, lift or scissors, a throw after a catch or a valid strike. The dropper must stay up and in control. A catch must follow an exchange of blows and finish within 5 seconds.
How it works
- Value: 3 points.
- Valid landing: three contact points from the knees up on the mat or the dropper.
- Ways: sweep, lift, scissors, throw after a catch, valid strike.
- Control: the dropper must not fall or lose control.
- One technique: only one sweep or scissors in one attempt.
- Catch: must follow attack and defence; 5 seconds to drop.
- Grip: the catcher may hold the lower uniform, protector or body.
- Out of the circle: a drop that starts inside and slides out still counts.
The glossary has the jatuhan, the tangkapan, the valid drop, the catching a leg, the technical count and the simultaneous attack.
Tricky cases
The catcher falls with the opponent. Is it a drop?
No. A dropper who falls too gets no score.
The caught pesilat counters with scissors and the catcher falls. Who scores?
The counter-scissors is valid and counts for the defender.
Can the defender hold on to stay up?
Yes, with one hand on the lower protector or uniform, or by hitting back.
A sweep misses and the opponent stays up. Any penalty?
Yes. A sweep or scissors that does not drop the opponent is a light violation.
Why the rule exists
Drops are the hardest skill and earn the most. The time limit and control rule stop catches turning into wrestling.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Catch takes over 5 seconds | No drop | Art 4.5f |
| Defender commits a serious violation | Drop stopped | Rev T4 |
| Sweep from too far | Moderate violation | Rev T6 |
From the rule book
IPSF-PERSILAT, International Pencak Silat Competition Regulations Year 2026, Article 4.5f and revision notes 3, 4, 6 and 7. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the PERSILAT competition regulations, 2026 revision.