It was a ceremonious start to Day 1 of pencak silat on December 9 at Zeyarthiri Indoor Stadium (C), as all participating athletes lined up for the recitation of the Athlete’s Oath, followed by the Referee’s Oath.
After a welcome speech by U Aung Zaw Naing, president of the Myanmar Thaing Federation, Teddy Suratmadji, secretary of the International Pencak Silat Federation, explained the rules to all participants. The competition was then declared open when chairman of the 27th SEA Games Organizing Committee, U Tint Hsan, struck the gong.
The first day saw ganding, or the match category, being contested. In the opening bout, Thailand’s Panja Ngonentim was clearly in control, gaining a succession of points to best Muhammad Ridhwan of Singapore 5-0.
“It’s really exciting to be in the first match and even better that I won. I believe Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand are equally matched, but Myanmar has home advantage. Their fans are always cheering loudly, so I will have to overcome that to win,” said Panja Ngonentim.
All other matches held throughout the day were quarterfinals in men’s weight classes A through E and H (see the SEA Games Daily results table for all outcomes). Pencak silat continues today with men’s classes F and G, and women’s classes C and F.
Ganding will continue until December 12, with the finals and medal presentation on December 15.
Ganding is a fight between two pesilat, or combatants, who use defense and attack elements to score points. A jury of five awards points, while a judge referees the match. Points are awarded for hits to the chest, abdomen above the navel, left and right ribs, and the back of the trunk.
Opponents are not allowed to hit above the neck or the area between the navel and groin. A technique called pola langkah, which refers to the arrangement of an athlete’s steps, is used in preparation for an attack, which in turn comprises a succession of no more than four moves.
The artistic category of pencak silat and corresponding medal ceremonies will be held on December 14 and showcase singles, doubles and team events. The moves for the artistic category are often similar to traditional Malay and other Asian dance movements, and are performed by both men and women.
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