Mohd Nasrulamiazam showing a ‘sundang’ exhibited at Perak Museum in Taiping. — Bernama
Most people are familiar with the keris, a dagger-like knife symbolising strength among the Malays in the old days, but not many may have heard of sundang, another important traditional Malay weapon.
Belonging to the broader family of keris, sundang was also used by the Malays in the Malay Peninsula, Sulu Archipelago and southern Philippines.
What sets the sundang apart from the traditional Malay keris is the size of its blade – it is thicker, longer and wider, similar to that of a sword – as well as the way it is held.
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According to information from Perak Museum in Taiping citing Malaysian historian Tan Sri Abdul Mubin Sheppard, the sundang originated in Sulawesi, Indonesia, and was brought to the Malay Peninsula by Bugis people in the 17th century.
The sundang is known by various names and features distinct physical characteristics that vary from region to region.
Perak Museum Department director Mohd Nasrulamiazam Mohd Nasir said the sundang primarily functioned as a symbol of status and power, especially among royalty and the nobility.
“The sundang used by royalty and nobility would have a handle with its top part made of horn or ivory, which is plated with gold or silver and inscribed with intricate designs.
“In contrast, the sundang owned by warriors were simpler as they were meant for combat,” he told Bernama.
He said there were different categories of sundang, among them being Sundang Waad Laksamana, used by warriors such as generals and navy captains or admirals, and Sundang Darjat for sultans and nobles.
“The Sundang Waad Ulama, meanwhile, was used by teachers and scholars while Sundang Adat was for community leaders like village chiefs or regional heads,” he explained.
Mohd Nasrulamiazam said the effectiveness of the sundang as a weapon laid in its strong blade, ideal for slashing and flapping.
In comparison, the keris was more suited for thrusting and stabbing, he said.
Like the keris, according to ancient beliefs, the sundang possesses mystical elements.
For example, it was considered a talisman that brought good fortune in business dealings and also thought to protect its owner by alerting them to any sudden or stealthy attack.
Perak Museum recently hosted a “Sundang: Art and Power Exhibition”.
“Over 80,000 people visited the exhibition during its six-month run, surpassing our target of 30,000,” said Mohd Nasrulamiazam.
“Visitors included school students, locals and foreign tourists who were eager to learn about the history, origins and significance of the sundang,” he added.
More than 200 pieces of sundang were on display, with 171 sourced from private collectors and 30 from the Department of Museums Malaysia and Perak Museum’s collections.
