Other Weapons
The other weapons are trained mainly for interest only.
They do not have a substantial place in the context of modern self
defence requirements. They do have a place in the traditional
context and for combat.
Cabang
It is often claimed that the sai originated in the 15th century
in Okinawa. The sai is a weapon that has gained in popularity
because of its practicality and effectiveness in the martial arts,
particularly those from Okinawa. The sai was originally used
to plant rice, and is still in use for that purpose in some parts
of the world today.
The Indonesians use the same weapon which they call
"cabang". The use of the cabang probably predates the
Okinawan usage and some argue that it was from Indonesia that it
spread to the Phillipines, Okinawa and elsewhere. The cabang
was a simple farm implement that the peasants turned to their
advantage if nothing else was available. Usually, though not
necessarily, the cabang are used in pairs, with a third cabang
often worn in the sarong and used to replace one that was thrown at
the enemy. If the throw was successful, the fight could be
over immediately. If not, the distraction could be just
enough to gain the advantage to get close enough to stab with the
cabang or to counter an attack. Further, it could simply be a
replacement for a weapon lost in the midst of combat.
In Indonesia there was often a heavy cabang used for blocking
and a lighter version used for striking; they were not necessarily
of the same dimensions.
Sarong
The sarong is a clothing item that can be effectively used in
locking (kunci) and controlling techniques. Ropes and chains
are suitable substitutes for some sarong techniques.
Parang/golok
These are similar to a machete and can be used singularly or in
pairs. Training with these is really for interest only.
Pisau
The pisau is a short bladed knife.