THE MALAY KERIS

The kris or keris is a distinctive, asymmetrical dagger indigenous to Malaya. Historically, the Kris was originally used as a weapon for Malay self-defense and martial arts. In modern Malaysia, it now has become a royal sovereign symbol and prized works of art to be collected. The kris as a work of art, portrays the highest quality of workmanship. The kris is more than just a weapon. History speaks of the kris as an object of mystery, believed to possess spiritual power. It is said to have the ability to protect the owner from physical harm and misfortune. Traditionally, the kris was revered as the abode of a strength-giving spiritual guardian. If the kris was ill-treated or neglected, the protective spirit would 'abandon the blade' and leave the kris powerless.

BADIK or BADEK

BADIK is a short sword used by the Malay and it originates from Indonesia. It is characterized by its single edge blade with almost straight back and up-curving edge, and the pistol grip shape handle. The high quality of workmanship enable it to stand on it sharp edge.

THE ART OF BLADES

Inscribed on the blade are the writing of the Holy Quran say "summum bukmum umyum fahum layar jiun".

BLOWGUN

Blowgun is made from a single piece of hard wood that is bored into a tube using an iron rod. The inside wall of the borehole is smoothed by drawing rattan back and forth through the tube. It can be up to 2 metres in lenght. Darts were carried in quiver. These were often made of alength of bamboo with a removable cover. The blowgun is used with lightweight poisoned darts to hunt animals but have been known to have been used in combat. The darts can achieve a direct hit at around 30 metres and the darts allegedly leave the blowgun at a speed over 150kilometres per hour.

KRIS AND ARTS

The kris as a work of art, portrays the highest quality of workmanship. The hilt, scabbard, blade and damascened produced by them, is integrated harmoniously with floral motif, and mujarad design, has distinguished the kris as a piece of art. A kris is classified by the design, materials, hilt and scabbard with motive of its own. The hilt, scabbard and blade has its own characteristic to verify the identity and distinctive value.

THE BALANCE OF KERIS

Many seems to think that keris has its own mystery, especially the old one. The keris collector must first understand its mystery. Having a keris without the knowledge of cleaning and maintaining them can have its reverse effect. One of many of its effect is in form of pain, of himself and family, consistently having nightmare, and major bleeding. Keris that have its own 'spirit' attached to it can stand by its own feet. For the new made keris, if its build with the right technique and quality, also can stand by its own feet. Not every one can make the keris stand, unless for people that love keris. Maintaining the health of keris also need special care, and love from its right owner.