Kampung jabur kubur: A traditional Malay knife and machete maker, Abdul Rahim Abd Razak, is committed to perpetuating his family's legacy by crafting handcrafted weapons with esteemed aesthetic value and refined craftsmanship, cherished by weapon enthusiasts. Abdul Rahim, 48, hails from Kampung Jabur Kubur and has inherited this artisanal skill from his late grandfather Salleh Mohd and father Abd Razak, who were reputed for their expertise in the Kemaman district.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Abdul Rahim expressed that the skill of crafting such weapons has been ingrained in him since his teenage years, driving him to uphold this family tradition. He began assisting his father at 15, learning essential techniques such as forging iron, hammering blades, grinding, and sharpening, which are crucial for producing high-quality knives and machetes. By the age of 20, Abdul Rahim committed to the craft full-time, establishing his own workshop to continue the family trade.
Abdul Rahim's brothers, Abdul Halim, 50, and Abdul Aziz, 46, have also inherited the family's talent and maintain their own workshops in the village to preserve their heritage. The siblings frequently collaborate to enhance their craftsmanship and ensure customer satisfaction. During the recent Hari Raya Aidiladha celebrations, Abdul Rahim fulfilled orders for over 200 knives and machetes, catering to the needs of animal slaughter, meat skinning, and bone cutting associated with the festival.
The most popular knives among his customers include dauh buluh, kakap, jakar, sembong, sepat, siakap, comel, bokok, lurus, aldin, and bullnose. Abdul Rahim typically produces two knives or one machete per day, depending on size and design complexity. His knives, sized between 12.7 cm and 30.48 cm, are priced from RM100 to RM400, while machetes measuring 30.48 cm to 35.56 cm range from RM700 to RM900.
In addition to crafting new tools, Abdul Rahim offers sharpening services, particularly in demand during the sacrificial season, receiving around 300 knives and machetes for repair. His reputation has extended beyond local borders, with orders coming from throughout Malaysia, as well as Thailand and Indonesia.