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The aim of this work is to develop a Finite Element Model based on continuum damage mechanics to predict the structural response of Kenaf composite when subjected to high‐velocity impact. The stress–strain response of the Kenaf composite through the fiber direction was simulated to examine prediction accuracy of this simulation approach. A combined elastic‐damage material model, incorporating the 3D Hashin's failure criteria, was implemented into the ABAQUS/Explicit finite element code by user‐defined VUMAT material subroutines. The results from the model predictions were compared with experimental data obtained by SHPB compression testing. The developed Finite Element Model of the full‐scale test presented an accurate prediction of the strain waves in the bars and successfully replicated the structural impact response of Kenaf composite over the range of impact loadings studied. The model also provides a reasonably good agreement between numerical and experimental results on the effect of strain rate on the failure stress and failure strain. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:909–915, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]