While “Open Creative” is not a standard, official category in Pencak Silat, the closest equivalent in competitive formats is often called Seni Solo Kreatif (Creative Solo Art) or sometimes included within the broader Seni Ganda (Choreographed Pair) category. Rules for these categories allow for more creativity than traditional, compulsory forms but must still adhere to core Pencak Silat principles. 

Based on general competitive standards from organizations like IPSI (Indonesian Pencak Silat Association) and PERSILAT (International Pencak Silat Federation), here are the key rules for Open Creative or Seni Solo Kreatif events:

General requirements

• Time limit: The performance must be completed within a set time limit, typically 3 minutes.
• Performance structure: The routine usually begins with empty-hand movements, transitions to weapon movements, and ends with a final empty-hand segment.
• Technique: Movements must display genuine Pencak Silat techniques, including:
  • Kaedah: The intent and awareness behind the techniques.
  • Langkah: The use of proper footwork patterns.
  • Serang bela: Planned, effective, and aesthetic attacks and defenses. 

Judging criteria

Judges do not simply count points for specific moves. Instead, they evaluate the overall performance based on several artistic criteria: 

• Technical truthfulness: The accuracy of the movements and the overall sequence. This includes:
  • The correctness of the movements within each sequence.
  • The correct sequence of movements and sections (empty hand to weapon).
• Expression and rhythm: The flow, rhythm, and artistic feeling conveyed throughout the routine.
• Confidence and stamina: The competitor’s power, consistency, and endurance during the performance. 

Weapon use

• Competitors are typically allowed to use up to two traditional Malay or Nusantara weapons, such as a golok (machete) and a rattan tongkat (stick).
• Weapons must be inspected by officials before the competition. Blades on any metal weapons must be unsharpened and blunt.
• If a weapon is dropped or broken, points will be deducted or the competitor may be disqualified. 

Penalties and disqualifications

• Time violation: Performing over or under the time limit may result in point deductions. The tolerance is often 5-10 seconds, depending on the age category.
• Technical errors: Failure to follow the correct sequence or perform movements with correct form will lead to point deductions.
• Rule violations: Severe or unaddressed violations can lead to disqualification, including:
  • Ignoring the time limit.
  • Dropping a weapon.
  • Failing a weapon inspection (e.g., if a weapon is found to be sharp or illegal).
  • Wearing unauthorized clothing or accessories.
  • Displaying inappropriate or unsportsmanlike behavior. 

What is not allowed (creative vs. extreme)

• The “Creative” category is distinct from “Extreme” martial arts forms, which allow for techniques from other disciplines like gymnastics and acrobatics, such as flips and butterfly kicks.
• In the standard Seni Solo Kreatif event, competitors must stay within the bounds of traditional Pencak Silat movements. Infusing elements from other martial arts or gymnastics can lead to penalties or disqualification.