Not Just Mystical: UGM Expert Reveals the Anatomy of Iron and Steel in the Keris Blade

The designation of National Keris Day on 19 April aims to strengthen the position of the keris as one of Indonesia’s 16 intangible cultural heritages. This strategic step also represents the government’s effort to redefine the keris’s role in modern society, avoiding erroneous or exclusive narratives. Keris collector and FIB UGM academic, Abdul Jawat Nur, S.S., M.Hum., stresses the importance of keris literacy for all segments of society. He dismisses the notion that the keris is a frightening object or restricted to certain groups. “The keris can be for everyone. Even women in the past owned keris. We must not let ignorant people say that the keris is haram. The keris is a noble culture, containing artistic, historical, and economic values. We must preserve it,” Jawat stated, quoted from the UGM website. From a material perspective, the keris is evidence of the advanced metallurgy technology of Indonesia’s ancestors. Jawat explains that keris identification can be examined from its composing materials, which typically consist of a combination of iron, steel, and pamor. “Visually, we can see it. If the colour is somewhat grey, that’s steel, while the pitch black is iron. Meanwhile, the pamor material comes from meteorites,” Jawat clarifies. The pamor, or decorative pattern on the keris blade derived from meteorite rocks, provides aesthetic value as well as proof of the blade’s structural strength, forged in a specific manner. Entering the modern era, the function of the keris has transformed completely. If in the past the keris was produced as a close-range combat weapon—even once made up to 1 metre long to counter Dutch swords—now the keris functions more as an ageman or an object that provides positive suggestions to its wearer. As an ageman, the type of keris is adjusted to the owner’s profession. Jawat gives the example of the use of the Pandawa Cinarito keris by puppeteers. “Puppeteers use the Pandawa Cinarito keris because it is believed to have the function of smoothing one’s speech,” he asserts. Understanding the pakem, such as the maximum number of luk (curves) at 13 for the old standard, is an important initial step. He advises the public not to be easily deceived by implausible stories, especially those aimed at unjustly inflating the selling price. “Don’t just believe strange stories. Especially if it’s sold cheaply. It’s impossible for a keris containing gold and diamonds to be sold for Rp 500,000. It’s better to buy from keris collectors or order directly from the empu,” Jawat concludes. With the commemoration of National Keris Day, it is hoped that literacy about this traditional “weapon” will grow stronger, safeguarding its authenticity from irresponsible replication practices, while nurturing this world heritage to remain relevant for the future.