PAKARANG KALAMANTAN ( BORNEO BLADES ):

[Amuk Murugul]

Originally Posted by Ian

I think the angle helps with the slicing effect of the blow. Somewhat like a curved saber--the hand is ahead of the "sweet spot" of the blade, and tends to draw the edge across the subject rather than being a purely chopping action.

Hullo Ian,
When it is used like a sabre, at close quarters/limited space, it gives a better cut.
However, it may be more convenient to use for everyday tasks (like a golok), by holding it on the blade side of the elbow.
Note that items 2 to 5 in post #1 are the same implements, 2&4 are male, while 3&5 are female (ref. post #9). Items 2&3 are the 'original' from which 4&5 developed.

Best,