The Sikin Panjang is the most popular fighting weapon of the inhabitants of northern
Sumatra. In the early years of the
Aceh War against the Dutch (which began in 1873 and lasted for over thirty years) many Sikins were made, especially prior to 1879 when a start was made with disarmament of the population. It is a version of Klewang. The spread of the Sikin Panjang was limited to
Sumatra, and especially to
Aceh and
Gayo (where the term
Luju Naru is used), but also in Alas (where it is named
Andar) and to a lesser degree in the
Batak area. Another typical sword in this region is the
Balato of the
Nias people. During the
Aceh Sultanate period, the
Panglima Prang (warlord) ranking titles were given. The Sikin Panjang and
Rencong which the
Panglima Prang receives from the
Ulubalang (district chief) on his appointment, he must return to the
Ulubalang again if he should ever embrace the cause of an enemy of the
Ulubalang. Person of position or those who are going on a journey carry in addition the Sikin Panjang which is the common weapon used in fighting. It is of uniform width from end to end, and placed in a sheath. == Description ==