The keris is synonymous with the Malay culture and way of life. The double-edged dagger is found within the Malay Archipelago. It is a traditional dagger, unique to Southern Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Southern Philippines, and supposedly in the Cham areas of Cambodia. It was once used as a weapon, particularly useful for fighting in confined spaces, such as inside a building or in the jungle, where longer weapons would be most cumbersome. It is now more an object of reverence and respect. Today, it is a status symbol for Malay royalty and dignitaries.