The kris is a cultural masterpiece handed down by the ancestors of modern Indonesians. It is a dagger with a length of 15-50 cm, adorned with asymmetrical and elaborate designs and sharp edges. The kris embodies tradition, social function, art, philosophy, and mysticism. Kris blades, hilts, and sheaths are occasionally decorated and inlaid with gold, silver, and jewelry to be given as precious gifts on national occasions, Kris production involves a number of spiritual aspects, as well as metalwork techniques. \n\nThe kris is more of a talisman than a functional weapon and has always been associated with the historic moments of Indonesia, including the Indonesian War of Independence.

Hun Krabok is Thailand’s traditional puppet theater, which has endured since the reign of King Narai of the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the seventeenth century. Hun Krabok generally depicts episodes or fables found in literature, with the main puppets classified as pra, nang, yak, ling, and joker. Each puppet holds a dancing pose in one hand and a weapon in the other. \n\nThis video depicts the story of a Hun Krabok troupe that is currently facing the risk of closure, as well as the production and performance techniques for the puppets featured in this traditional performing art.