Keris
Surrounded by superstition and spiritual symbolism, the keris is the traditional weapon of the Malay man and has been the symbol of the Malay Sultans of Southeast Asia for nearly a thousand years. It is regarded as "pusaka" of sacred heirloom and is the emblem of the cultural heritage of the Malay. For 600 years, it has been the power and sovereignity of the Malay.
The keris is a short dagger with unique blades that are gently curved or wavy and surmounted by an elaborately carved hilt. Both handle and sheath are lavishly carved and often studded with precious stones. The length, number of curves and design of the hilt are unique to each locality and easily recognized by the connoisseur.
Every keris has certain distinguishing marks with a story to tell. The keris forms part of the royal regalia of the Sultan and is worn during state ceremonies and important occasions. The man in the street normally wears the keris tucked into his sampin or waist cloth during weddings. Many keris are family heirlooms and are treated reverentially.
You can buy a keris at most of the handicratf/souvenirs shops in Malaysia.
If you want to see the manufacturing process of the Keris, you can visit:
Abu Bakar bin Mohd. Amin
No. 1406, Lorong Saga, Pasir Panjang,
Kuala Terengganu.
Tel: 09-627968.
Keris