Spears in the Malay world are often known as tombak or lembing, distinguished by the width of their metal tips. Functional spears used for hunting and war, such as those used by the Orang Laut, usually have plain shafts.

The Flemish trader Jacques de Coutre noted that the Orang Laut “were armed with … spears made of wild palm, without any iron. They are called seligis [spear] and they throw them so hard that they can even penetrate an iron breastplate and any shield no matter how sturdy they are.”

While the spear on display was produced during the early 20th century, it retains the basic characteristics of spears that were used in the past, including the shape of the metal tips. However, more ornamental spears, such as those used by palace guards or as regalia, can be embellished with copper, gold and silver.

Reproduction based on the collection of Asian Civilisations Museum.