Bambu runcing

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Bambu runcing, or pring lancip, literally means “spiked bamboo.” It is a traditional spear made from sharpened bamboo from Java, Indonesia. In the 15th century, during the Majapahit era, bamboo runcing fighting was performed in front of the king. Each side was led by a man with a bamboo spear, accompanied by their wives and servants. When the drums sounded, they fought three rounds. The wives shouted “Larak, larak” (retreat), and the fight paused for a moment. If a fighter died, the king would order the victor to compensate the dead man’s family, and the widow of the deceased would become the victor’s wife.

During the Indonesian National Revolution, a lack of weapons forced fighters to use bamboo spears again, making the bambu runcing a famous symbol of resistance. Today, it stands for courage and sacrifice in Indonesia. A notable figure is K. H. Subchi of Temanggung, nicknamed “General Spiked Bamboo,” who advised the Temanggung Muslims Front, later known as Barisan Bambu Runcing.