Based on anecdotal evidence from oral sources, the Anak Alang, in the past is deemed to be an extreme close in stabbing weapon for hand-to-hand combat. Due to its size, it is far easily hidden in the folds of ones clothing and deployed immediately and suddenly when needed. It was deemed suitable for used by women and the young even though its used is not restricted to them alone.
The ricikan of the anak alang, in particular, elongated and tapering forms such as this was more then for just ornamental reasons. It serves the added function of a means of parrying the blade or hands of the opponent. & in extreme conditions could itself be used to inflict wounds or pain compliance to the opponent during combat.
Like the curvature that is found in a Bugis sepokal blade, the curvature of the balde that is seen in this form of anak alang is also deemed via oral traditions and practicaal experimenting on my own, to be able to enhance tissue trauma, during theinitial entry stab and when the blade exits the wound. The curvature also allows for the blade to be employed not just for stabbing but also for slashing action as that curvature conforms to the natural contours of the human body. Specifically the neck, wrist, crook of elbow or rear of the knee.
In that sense, this new Anak Alang conforms well to the traditional emphasis of balance between the need for utility and the aesthetics that is in my personal opinion the basis of the forma of Malay Kerises in the Peninsula, Sumatra and of the Bugis forms too.
Comments would be appreciated. Rgds
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