← Back to martial art

General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Silat Suffian Bela Diri (SSBD) is an authentic Bruneian family martial art transmitted globally by Maul Mornie. The 6-level hierarchy (Murid student to Utama master) evaluates tactical knife defense (Kumpulan Kuno), blade disarming, Parang machete fencing, low leg sweeps, and fluid limb redirection.

1st Level – Murid SSBD

Murid SSBDRank #1

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Langkah footwork, palm deflections, and initial Pisau knife disarms.

Symbolism & Meaning

Traditional Bruneian family martial art passed down by Maul Mornie.

2nd Level – Pelatih SSBD

Pelatih SSBDRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Staff work, Kerambit curved knife drills, and limb destruction tactics.

Symbolism & Meaning

Uncompromising neutralization of threats at very close range.

3rd Level – Guru Muda SSBD

Guru Muda SSBDRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Parang machete drills, moving weapon disarms, and fluid tactical combat.

Symbolism & Meaning

Assistant master authorized to lead study groups at international seminars.

4th Level – Guru SSBD

Guru SSBDRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full master rank Guru. Instructing complete Bruneian weapon & empty-hand arsenal.

Symbolism & Meaning

Guru = Full representative and official instructor of SSBD.

5th Level – Master SSBD

Master SSBDRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Defense against multiple armed attackers simultaneously, tactical consulting.

Symbolism & Meaning

Senior instructor contributing to the global development of SSBD.

6th Level – Utama (Grandmaster Maul Mornie)

Utama SSBDRank #6

Typical gap since previous grade: 72 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest Utama title. Founder Maul Mornie & sole international lineage guarantor.

Symbolism & Meaning

Utama = Living head and founder of the global Silat Suffian Bela Diri phenomenon.