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Singapore’s Forgotten Weaponry Tradition: A Revival in the Making

7 Aug 2024 (Wed), 10am – 12pm
Seminar Room, Central Library (Level 4)

A 1939 Straits Times report unveils a surprising glimpse into Singapore’s past: a locally crafted kris, an example of superb craftsmanship, was presented to a Sultan. This discovery hints at a once-thriving weapons-making tradition in Singapore. This presentation explores the potential revival of this forgotten art form and looks at the historical evidence suggesting a flourishing craft in Singapore and examines the challenges faced by these artisans during the colonial and post-colonial eras. The presentation will also discuss the significance of reviving this tradition for Singapore’s cultural heritage and its connection to the wider Southeast Asian region. Finally, we’ll explore ongoing efforts to rekindle this legacy, including the establishment of a traditional forge and collaborations with regional experts to cultivate new generations of weapon-smiths.

Speaker
Dr Mohamed Effendy B Abdul Hamid
Lecturer, Department of Southeast Asian Studies,
National University of Singapore

Dr Mohamed Effendy is a lecturer in Southeast Asian Studies. His research spans both mainland and maritime Southeast Asia, encompassing communities like the Cham people of southern Vietnam and the maritime communities of Sulawesi, Indonesia. Particularly fascinated by the 17^th and 19^th centuries, Dr Effendy sheds light on the social and cultural transformations that reshaped the region during this dynamic period. His expertise extends beyond traditional historical topics, such as the history and cultural significance of Martial arts in Southeast Asia.