Post: ‘Keris’ Craftsmanship Recognized as National Cultural Heritage

Bandar seri begawan: Keris, an asymmetrical dagger that originates from the Malay Archipelago, has been acknowledged as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. A local craftsman has been dedicated to preserving this ancient art for the past four years, continuing to produce keris as a symbol of the nation's cultural heritage. According to Radio Television Brunei, Awang Haji Mahani bin Haji Marani embarked on his journey into the art of keris-making after enrolling in a course at the handicraft arts training centre in 1985. He has been actively engaged in the craft ever since. He explains that crafting a keris involves a meticulous process that can take between one to two weeks, starting from raw materials. The keris remains significant in modern times, used in wedding gifts, traditional ceremonies, and personal collections. Awang Haji Mahani notes that there are special requests for custom-made keris, allowing individuals to tailor the design according to their personal tastes. The practice of keris-making stands as a vital national heritage, maintaining its relevance in contemporary community life. Awang Haji Mahani emphasizes the importance of the younger generation learning this craft and utilizing social media to ensure the keris heritage endures through time.