Views: 222 Author: Edvo Publish Time: 2025-04-26 Origin: Site
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>> Characteristics of Cutter Knives in Malaysia
● Traditional Malaysian Knives and Their Terminology
>> Golok
>> Parang
● Do Malaysians Use the Term "Cutter Knife"?
>> Distinction from Traditional Knives
>> Regional and Cultural Variations
● Legal and Practical Considerations for Knife Usage in Malaysia
>> Everyday Carry (EDC) of Knives
● Comparison of Cutter Knife with Traditional Malaysian Knives
● FAQ
>> 1. What is a cutter knife commonly used for in Malaysia?
>> 2. Is the term "cutter knife" used for traditional Malaysian knives?
>> 3. Are cutter knives legal to own and carry in Malaysia?
>> 4. What are some traditional knives used in Malaysia?
>> 5. What is the safest type of knife to carry daily in Malaysia?
In Malaysia, the terminology and usage of knives vary widely depending on the context-whether it is traditional weapons, agricultural tools, or everyday utility knives. One common question is whether Malaysians use the term "cutter knife" to describe certain types of knives. This article explores the usage of the term "cutter knife" in Malaysia, compares it with other traditional and modern knives, and explains the cultural and practical contexts in which different knives are referred to and used.
A cutter knife, often known as a utility knife or stationery blade, is a tool designed primarily for cutting paper, cloth, plastic, rubber, and other materials in office or household settings. It typically features a segmented blade that can be snapped off to reveal a fresh, sharp edge, making it long-lasting and convenient for repetitive cutting tasks. Cutter knives usually have plastic or metal handles with a push-lock mechanism for blade extension and retraction[2][6].
- Sizes commonly range from 13 cm to 15 cm.
- Made with steel blades and plastic or metal handles.
- Designed for office, school, and household use.
- Widely available in Malaysian stationery and office supply stores.
- Known locally as "pisau pemotong," which translates to "cutting knife"[2][6].
In contrast to the modern utility cutter knife, Malaysia has a rich tradition of bladed tools and weapons with specific names and cultural significance.
The golok is a traditional machete-like cutting tool used both as an agricultural implement and a weapon throughout the Malay Archipelago, including Malaysia and Indonesia. It is heavier and shorter than a parang and has a convex blade edge designed for cutting through dense vegetation. The golok is culturally significant and has been historically associated with masculinity and self-protection[1].
The parang is a broader and longer machete compared to the golok, used mainly for clearing bushes and cutting wood. It is a common tool in rural Malaysia and is often used interchangeably with the golok in some regions[1][7].
The kerambit or karambit is a small, curved knife resembling a claw, traditionally used in silat martial arts and as a utility tool in Southeast Asia. It is held with a finger ring and used for slashing or hooking motions. Though it originated as an agricultural implement, it has been weaponized and is culturally significant in Malaysia and Indonesia[3][4].
Yes, Malaysians do use the term "cutter knife," especially when referring to the modern utility knife commonly used in offices, schools, and homes. The term is widely recognized in Malaysia's commercial and retail sectors, where products labeled as "cutter knife" or "utility knife" are sold for cutting paper, plastic, and other materials[2][6].
While "cutter knife" is used for the modern snap-off blade utility knives, traditional knives like golok, parang, and kerambit are not referred to as cutter knives. These traditional blades have their own specific names and cultural contexts. The term "cutter knife" is not typically used to describe these traditional tools or weapons in Malaysia[1][3][4].
In rural or indigenous communities, traditional knives such as the golok or parang are more commonly referenced by their local names rather than as "cutter knives." The term is more prevalent in urban and commercial contexts where the utility knife is a common tool for cutting tasks unrelated to agriculture or combat[1][2].
In Malaysia, owning and importing knives, including utility knives and traditional blades, is generally legal without permits. However, carrying knives in public without a lawful reason is illegal. This applies to all types of knives, including cutter knives, folding knives, and fixed blades. The law aims to prevent the use of knives as weapons in public spaces[5].
Although many Malaysians own knives for various purposes, carrying them as everyday carry (EDC) items in public is restricted. The safest and most socially accepted knives for EDC are small folding knives or Swiss Army knives, which are perceived as tools rather than weapons. Carrying a cutter knife openly in public might be viewed suspiciously unless justified by a lawful reason such as work or hobby[5].
| Feature | Cutter Knife | Golok/Parang | Kerambit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Office, household cutting tasks | Agricultural, bush clearing, weapon | Martial arts, utility, weapon |
| Blade Type | Segmented, snap-off steel blade | Single edge, convex grind | Curved, claw-like blade |
| Handle Material | Plastic or metal | Wood, water buffalo horn | Wood, horn, ivory |
| Cultural Significance | None | Symbol of masculinity, tradition | Martial arts weapon, cultural |
| Common Terminology in Malaysia | Cutter knife, pisau pemotong | Golok, parang | Kerambit, kuku macan |
| Legal Considerations | Legal to own, restricted to carry | Legal to own, restricted to carry | Legal to own, restricted to carry |
Malaysians do use the term "cutter knife," but it specifically refers to the modern utility knife commonly used in offices, schools, and homes for cutting paper, plastic, and other materials. This term is distinct from traditional Malaysian knives such as the golok, parang, and kerambit, which have their own names and cultural significance. While owning cutter knives is legal and widespread, carrying any knife in public without a lawful reason is prohibited by Malaysian law. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the terminology and cultural context of knives in Malaysia.
A cutter knife in Malaysia is primarily used for cutting paper, plastic, cloth, and other materials in offices, schools, and homes. It is a utility tool with a segmented blade that can be snapped off to reveal a sharp edge[2][6].
No, traditional Malaysian knives like the golok, parang, and kerambit have their own specific names and are not referred to as cutter knives. The term "cutter knife" is reserved for modern utility knives[1][3][4].
Owning cutter knives is legal in Malaysia without permits. However, carrying any knife, including cutter knives, in public without a lawful reason is illegal under Malaysian law[5].
Traditional knives include the golok (a machete-like tool), parang (a broader machete), and kerambit (a small curved claw-like knife). These knives have cultural and practical uses in agriculture, self-defense, and martial arts[1][3][4].
The safest knives for everyday carry in Malaysia are small folding knives or Swiss Army knives, as they are generally perceived as tools rather than weapons. Carrying knives openly in public requires a lawful reason to avoid legal issues[5].
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golok
[2] https://www.pacificwise.com.my/cutter-knife.html
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karambit
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weapons_of_pencak_silat
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wifFv_Zq1UQ
[6] https://www.pacificwise.com.my/cutter-knife-metal.html
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KccA9urwZ5M
[8] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parang_(knife)
[9] https://martaswonderland.wordpress.com/2014/07/23/malaysian-eating-habits/
[10] https://www.reddit.com/r/malaysia/comments/7b4i3k/guys_is_it_okay_to_carry_a_small_pocket_knife_for/
[11] https://my.misumi-ec.com/vona2/detail/223005210308/
[12] https://pindfoundation.org/project/efficient-technologies-adjustable-harvester-sspe-malaysian-knife/
[13] https://shopee.com.my/product/453287907/15395379789
[14] https://coltellimania.com/en/glossary-of-cutting-weapons/
[15] https://my.misumi-ec.com/vona2/maker/kaijirushi/fs_processing/T0600000000/T0613000000/
[16] https://eshop.wuerth.my/Product-categories/Cutter-knife/311760200111.cyid/3117.cgid/en/US/MYR/
[17] https://www.motortopia.com/exploring-the-craft-a-close-up-of-thai-and-malaysian-choppers/
[18] https://shop-id.tokopedia.com/pdp/1729604208934160109
[19] https://www.lansky.com/resources/post/20-common-knife-terms.html
[20] https://pindfoundation.org/cut-oil-palm-farmers-losses-pind-foundation-introduces-malaysian-knife/
