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In the Malay world, swords have a double function,
they can either be a warrior's weapon or an all purpose utility tool.
Swords have different shape and use, they can be
divided in four major types.
 | Parang,
a generic term used all over the archipelago to describe any
type of single edge chopping weapon. Usually a kind of machete used for
hunting or moving in the jungle.
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| Pedang,
is another generic term used to describe a cutting or thrusting
straight or slightly curved blade weapon. In Java, Bali and Madura,
the blade is often in pamor.
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| Klewang,
is a weapon with a straight cutting
edge widening towards the point and a straight back which brings it
to the tip at a slant. The point of gravity is nearer to the point. Some varieties have a protruding spike at the tip.
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| Golok,
is a kind of cleaver. It has a short
heavy blade with a cutting edge and a straight or slightly concave back.
Some types have a blade heavier in
the center and curving to a sharp point at the tip.
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Aceh warrior
with Sikim, schield and Tombak
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