Malaysian artisans keep traditional keris-making craft alive

In Besut, Malaysia, three traditional artisans are diligently preserving the art of keris making, a Nusantara dagger symbolizing the honor, sovereignty, and identity of the Malay people. Mohd. Rudi Jusof, 64, considered one of the oldest keris makers in Besut, along with his apprentices Rosdi Abd. Hamid, 49, and Abd. Mutalib Abdullah, 43, are actively producing keris using traditional manual techniques that demand high levels of precision, patience, and skill.

Mohd. Rudi views keris making not merely as a profession but as a heritage that must be safeguarded and passed on. "Every hammer strike on the metal is not just a process of creating a keris, but a continuation of the knowledge I learned from previous generations," he explained. He is committed to continuing the craft and sharing his expertise with his students to ensure the art form endures beyond his generation.

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Every hammer strike on the metal is not just a process of creating a keris, but a continuation of the knowledge I learned from previous generations.

He further elaborated that crafting a keris involves more than just forging the blade; it encompasses the creation of the sheath and hilt, each requiring distinct artistry and meticulous attention. Mohd. Rudi honed his skills under the tutelage of the late Tengku Ibrahim Tengku Wok, a renowned fine arts figure in Besut.

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Some keris makers are skilled at producing blades but cannot make sheaths. Others can produce sheaths but must buy the blades from different makers. For us, the skill to produce a complete keris with its sheath and specific carvings is a rare mastery.

Rosdi highlighted that keris making requires deep passion, as mastering the entire process is challenging. "Some keris makers are skilled at producing blades but cannot make sheaths. Others can produce sheaths but must buy the blades from different makers. For us, the skill to produce a complete keris with its sheath and specific carvings is a rare mastery," he stated.

Abd. Mutalib actively participates in various courses organized by the Yayasan DiRaja Sultan Mizan (YDSM) to expand his knowledge and refine his keris-making skills. He noted that Besut remains an active hub for keris production, albeit in small quantities to meet customer demand. "Demand comes from within and outside the country, including Thailand and Singapore," he added.

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Demand comes from within and outside the country, including Thailand and Singapore.