Congkak

Congkak (Jawi: چوڠكق ;Malay pronunciation: [ˈtʃɔŋkaʔ]) or Congklak is a mancala game of Malay origin played in Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and Southern Thailand.

Close variants are Dakon or Dhakon (Java), Sungka (Philippines), Chongka' (Marianas), Jogklak (interior of Java); Dentuman Lamban (Lampung), Mokaotan, Maggaleceng, Aggalacang or Nogarata (Celebes), Chonka (Sri Lanka) and Naranj (Maldives).

Congkak has simple rules that allow the boards to have different numbers of holes. Congkak boards are often made of teak or mahogany wood are often elaborately carved into various shapes such as naga or birds.

The word congkak is believed to originate from old Malay "", meaning "mental calculation" which is mainly practiced in this game. It is regarded that an efficient player who mentally calculates a few steps in advance will have an advantage in collecting points to win the game.

The word congkak or congklak also means cowrie shells, used in the game.

The oldest mancala game boards were found in a ruined fort of Roman Egypt and date back to the 4th century AD. The game was likely introduced to Southeast Asia by Indian or Arab traders in the 15th century.

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