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Mandau - Traditional Weapon from Borneo Island 1

Mandau (Saber)  is a traditional weapon Melayu Dayak communities who live in East Kalimantan, especially in the area of Barito. According to folklore, the full title of this weapon is mandau ambang birang bitang pojo ayun kayau (in dayak language). In ancient times mandau(saber) is always associated with the tradition of headhunting among Dayaks, namely behead enemies, whether in war or other. This tradition eventually became a Dayak people’s confidence mandau which is often used for headhunting is considered more sacred, while the owner is considered the more powerful and higher social status. But today, with more loss of headhunting tradition since the early 20th century AD, Mandau not sacred like in the past. Mandau has become common weapons that are not only enabled to headhunting but also for hunting, cutting down trees, cutting branches and digging tubers.

Mandau - Traditional Weapon from Borneo Island 2

Mandau - Traditional Weapon from Borneo Island 3

History records that the original Mandau(Saber) made from melted rock that specifically by people with expertise, with ornate gold, silver or copper. This weapon is similar to a parang (marchete), the only difference lies in the carvings are made at the blunt blade. In addition, the blade is also made holes covered with brass blades in order to beautify it. On the other hand, almost the same position with the Keris(dagger) for the Java community, or rencong in  Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam Society.

Mandau - Traditional Weapon from Borneo Island 4

Mandau - Traditional Weapon from Borneo Island 5