Thanks to all for the encouraging/kind comments. Indeed it's gratifying to see a job well done.
Shahrial, I believe yours would be ready in no time. Do please post some pictures. In the meantime, I'm holding my breath...
Kai Wee, let it be known many of your outstanding pieces have been my benchmarks. Another project with Nik will come and the fittings will base on a picture you once sent upon my request.
Nik Dee opined the blade as Riau Bugis and helped made the selection of sampir and hulu after discussions. The choice of pendokok and butut (after seeing how good it looks on a Kai Wee piece) were mine.