By Nur Diyana
Singapore’s cultural heritage includes a fascinating but often overlooked chapter: the local tradition of weapon-making. This curated list of physical materials from our collections aims to support your exploration of this topic and will be displayed during the upcoming talk Singapore’s Forgotten Weaponry Tradition: A Revival in the Making by Dr Mohamed Effendy from the Southeast Asian Studies Department, NUS.
Keris and Other Malay Weapons 1936
Edited by B. Lumsden Milne, this book offers an overview of various Malay weapons, highlighting their historical and cultural contexts. It provides insights into the diversity and evolution of Malay armaments.
The Malay Keris and Other Weapons 1956
This illustrated volume by A. H. Hill investigates the artistry and symbolism of the Malay keris, a distinctive asymmetrical dagger with deep cultural significance. K.M. Foong’s illustrations bring to life the intricate details and craftsmanship that characterise these weapons.
The Kris: Mystic Weapon of the Malay World 1986
Edward Frey’s book examines the mystical and cultural dimensions of the keris. It provides an analysis of the weapon’s symbolic meanings and its place in Malay folklore and tradition.
De Kris: Magic Relic of Old Indonesia 1993
Ing. G.J.F.J. Tammens’s “De Kris” explores the keris as a magical relic from old Indonesia. The book offers insights into the historical context and the qualities attributed to this weapon.
Le Monde du Kris: Indonesie-Malasie-Philippines 1997
Gaspard de Marval takes readers on a journey through the world of the keris, spanning Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. This work emphasises the shared heritage and variations of the keris across these regions, offering a comparative perspective.
Southeast Asian Warfare, 1300-1900 2004
Michael W. Charney’s work explores the broader scope of warfare in Southeast Asia, including the role of indigenous weaponry. This book is essential for understanding the military strategies and the significance of weapons like the keris in regional conflicts.
Mengenal Keris: Senjata “Magis” Masyarakat Jawa 2007
Ragil Pamungkas’ “Mengenal Keris” delves into the mystical aspects of the Javanese keris. It explores the weapon’s magical attributes and its role in Javanese society, providing a unique angle on this cultural artifact.
Senjata Warisan 2007
Authored by Mohd. Zainudin Haji Abdullah and Mohd. Shahrim Senik, “Senjata Warisan” focuses on the legacy of Malay weaponry. The book discusses the preservation and transmission of this heritage through generations.
Senjata-Senjata Melayu 2009
This book by Mohd. Kassim Haji Ali and Ramli Jaafar explores the traditional weapons of the Malay world. It provides a local perspective on the cultural importance and craftsmanship of these weapons.
The Javanese Kris 2009
Isaäc Groneman’s study on the Javanese kris provides an in-depth look at this mystical weapon. The book covers the kris’s origins, cultural meanings, and the rituals associated with it.
Iron Ancestors: Kris Sajen, Kris Majapahit and Related Objects 2010
This edited volume by Theo Alkema features stunning photography by Ben Grishaaver and detailed drawings by Karel Sirag. It examines the keris sajen and keris Majapahit, underscoring their historical significance and artistic value.
This curated list of physical materials provides a starting point for exploring this forgotten weaponry tradition of Singapore. We invite you to explore these sources to uncover the historical roots and cultural importance of these weapons.
Join us for Singapore’s Forgotten Weaponry Tradition: A Revival in the Making by Dr Mohamed Effendy from the NUS Southeast Asian Studies Department this August 7th at NUS Central Library Seminar Room (Level 4), 10am.
