Kelantanese Klewang | |
Origin: | Malaysia (Kelantan) |
Type: | Klewang sword |
Is Bladed: | Yes |
Used By: | Kelantanese Malay people |
Length: | Approximately 16 inch (40.64 cm) to 20 inch (50.8 cm) blade and 17cm handle |
Blade Type: | Single edge |
Hilt Type: | Water buffalo horn or wood |
Sheath Type: | No scabbard |
The Kelantanese klewang or Kelantanese kelewang (Kelewang Kelantan or Klewang Kelantan in Malay language or Keleweng Kelate in Kelantanese Malay) is a style of klewang originating from Kelantan, Malaysia[1] but is also popular in other northern Malaysia Peninsula states such as Kedah and Perlis.[2]
The Kelantanese klewang is believed to be as old as the parang, became a distinct weapon by the late 18th century.[3] In the 19th century, Kelantanese men would wear the Kelantantese klewang behind their sarong with the blade protruding out.[4]
The weapon features a single edged, curved belly blade, with its tapered tip clipped and forming decorative loop or spike at the spine of the blade. The handle is carved to the shape of a horse hoof or a Makara (Hindu mythology).[4]
The Kelantanese klewang is used in martial arts[3] but it is also often associated with violent gang crimes. In 2012, about a dozen of gang members from 3 different gangs in Kelantan were arrested for 10 cases of assault, armed-robbery and confiscation of weapons including the kelewang.[5]
There are variety of Kelantanese klewangs such as Kelewang Pucuk Berkait,[6] Kelewang Jambul[7] and so on.
This weapon was featured in the American bladesmthing competition, Forged in Fire (TV series)'s season 5 episode 15.[8]