SANG SAKA PROFILE: KELEMBAI
In the beliefs of the local people.
Written by:
Sang Kelembai is a mythical creature, said to be a hideous ogress that resides in the dense hinterlands of Pahang, Malaysia.
Roughly six meters tall, Kelembai features include an elephant-like complexion that instills fear in those that come across him. It has been mysteriously cursed with the supernatural ability of petrification.
Long ago, Sang Kelembai was adored by the local children. The villagers of Pahang River would present him with gifts of meat, fruits, and bamboo leaves.
One day, an elephant and his calf stumbled upon Kelembai in the forest. The two animals were instantly turned into stone. Horrified, Kelembai ran to a nearby village where a feast was being held.
The villagers who greeted him met the same demise as the elephants. Kelembai went into hiding soon after realizing her horrible powers.
It is also believed to exist in Perak, where there is a legendary story of how the “Batu Gajah” district got its name.
Kota Gelanggi, an archaeological site in Johor, is said to be the remains of an ancient Malay kingdom from the 7th century.
Raja Mambang of Lipis waged war against the kingdom to win the Gelanggi princess's heart but was ultimately defeated by Raja Usul of Bera.
Mourning the death of his son, Raja Mambang’s father summoned Sang Kelembai to petrify the entire kingdom for vengeance.
What do you think about our new mythical creature that will be summoned to our ETH collection?
Leave your comment below.
