Borneo Parang Ihlang

[Jim McDougall]

Going through items which I have had for many years, but apparently never really researched, I wanted to bring this in here for comments, observations from the guys here who really know this stuff.

I use the term parang ihlang to avoid using the more commonly known term and traditional associations in hopes of not awakening sensitivities in todays fragile climate. I understand that these are more used as machetes and in utility use in tribal contexts in modern times.

I have no idea if this is modern possibly souvenir item or authentic tribal item.

In trying to research some references on this, I noticed one with the 'fixture' sort of scrolled on the blade, and the term 'langgai thggang' (sic)? and suggesting these blades are recalling the hornbill bird.

Can you guys offer some insights on this as I admit I have very little awareness of these, and thought it an opportunity to learn a bit on them.

Thoughts on regional or tribal peculiarities (if this is indeed authentic).
These dont seem discussed much recently (I confess not using search yet).