In the Malay world as in many other places, swords serve both as weapons of the warrior and as general utility tools. There are four major types of Malay sword:
Parang
- A generic term used widely to describe any chopping weapon with a single edge.
- Examples: Parang Nabur, Parang Latok, Parang Amanremu, Parang Ilang
Pedang
- Used to rever to a cutting or thrusting weapon that may be either straight or slighly curved.
- Examples: Pedang Luwuk, Pedang Suduk, Pedang Suduk, Pedang Suduk Maru, Pedang Sabet
Klewang (or Kelewang)
- A weapons with a straight back and a widening blade with a slant near the tip. There may also be a spike protruding near the tip.
- Examples: Kelewang
Golok
- The Golok is a cleaver with a short, heavy blade.
- Examples: Golok Cepot