Pukulan

Pukulan is the Indonesian and Malay term for a punch or strike used in hand-to-hand combat. The word derives from pukul, meaning to hit, with the noun-forming suffix -an. In martial arts contexts, pukulan refers to a category of strikes delivered with the fist, forearm, or open hand as part of a broader system of defending, attacking, and controlling an opponent.

In traditional Malay and Indonesian martial arts such as pencak silat, pukulan is practiced as a component of coordinated movements that combine strikes with footwork, balance, and body mechanics. Techniques emphasize speed, accuracy, and the effective use of power generated by hip rotation, body alignment, and timing, rather than relying solely on arm strength. Training typically includes partner drills, bag work, and conditioning to develop precision, range, and safety.

Techniques described as pukulan cover a range of hand strikes suitable for different contexts and ranges. Common examples include straight punches aimed at the torso or head, as well as variations such as hooks, uppercuts, and palm-strike options for close quarters. The exact nomenclature and emphasis can vary by school, region, and tradition, reflecting the diversity within Malay-speaking martial arts.

Safety and discipline are emphasized in training, with students learning to control force, protect themselves and partners, and apply techniques responsibly. Beyond sport and self-defense, pukulan occupies a place in the cultural and historical repertoire of Indonesian and Malay martial arts, illustrating the central role of hand strikes in their practical and symbolic narratives.