How is a pencak silat match won on points?
B · Beginner · Violations and results · 4 of 5If the match goes the distance, the pesilat with more points wins. On a tie, the one with fewer penalty points wins; then the one with more 3-point, then 2-point, then 1-point scores. If they are still level, an extra round is fought. After that the lighter pesilat wins, and finally the chairman draws lots.
How it works
- Winner: the higher total after penalty deductions.
- First tie-break: fewer penalty points.
- Second: more technical scores, ranked 3, then 2, then 1.
- Third: one extra round.
- Fourth: the lighter body weight.
- Fifth: a draw by the competition chairman.
- Witnesses: the technical delegate and both team managers.
- Announcement: the referee raises the winner's hand.
The glossary has the winning by points, the penalty points, the technical score, the weight categories, the competition chairman and the technical delegate.
Tricky cases
Two pesilat tie on 12 each, one with a drop. Who wins?
Penalties first; if level, the pesilat with the drop.
The extra round also ends level. What next?
The lighter pesilat wins.
Which weight counts?
The rules say the lighter body weight; for simultaneous falls they use the last official weigh-in.
Who draws lots?
The competition chairman, watched by the technical delegate and both managers.
Why the rule exists
Fewer penalties come first so that clean fighting is rewarded. Drops rank above kicks and punches because they take the most skill.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 rules | Extra round, then lighter weight | Art 4.5g |
| Pesta Sukan 2026 | Extra round, then sudden death | PS 12 |
| 2013 rules | Five jurors decide | IPSA 9.6.7.4 |
From the rule book
IPSF-PERSILAT, International Pencak Silat Competition Regulations Year 2026, Article 4.5g (win by points). Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the PERSILAT competition regulations, 2026 revision.