Melaka gazettes Pulau Melaka shipwreck site as restricted zone to protect 1,200-year-old vessel and facilitate National Heritage Department excavation.
MELAKA: The state government has officially gazetted the Pulau Melaka shipwreck discovery site as a restricted zone.
This designation enables the National Heritage Department to conduct proper excavation of wooden fragments believed to be from a 1,200-year-old vessel.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the gazettement prevents trespassing and ensures artefact preservation.
“This area will remain restricted until exploration concludes, as this site holds value for both Melaka and the nation,” he told reporters after visiting the excavation site.
He emphasised the discovery’s significance in correcting historical narratives potentially altered by previous records.
The state government will seek federal funding to expand excavation of this national asset.
Ab Rauf acknowledged the lengthy excavation process involving multiple teams and specialists.
“We will assist with budget and extend full cooperation to JWN, Perzim, UKM and UMT research teams,” he added.
Artefacts will undergo thorough study before public display in Perzim museums.
The wooden plank discovered may rewrite Melaka’s maritime history, predating Parameswara’s arrival.
Experts believe the noble-owned vessel dates between 1,200 and 1,300 years old.
Excavation also uncovered porcelain fragments and coins from Sultan Mahmud Shah’s era. – Bernama
