Pulau Melaka archaeological excavation extends after discovering wooden ship fragments, porcelain and coins from the Melaka Malay Sultanate era.
MELAKA: The National Heritage Department’s archaeological excavation in Pulau Melaka has entered its extended fourth phase following significant discoveries.
Director-General Mohamad Muda Bahadin confirmed the extension after workers uncovered wooden fragments believed to be from a Melaka Malay Sultanate ship alongside porcelain and coins from Sultan Mahmud Shah’s era.
The current excavation covers only a 12-by-12-metre site but is expected to expand based on ongoing research findings.
“We will continue this project until it is completed,” Mohamad Muda told reporters at the excavation site.
He estimated the project could take two to three years or longer depending on future studies.
Twenty-four personnel from JWN, Melaka Museum Corporation, and universities are involved in this phase alongside volunteer archaeologists.
Excavation has reached approximately three metres deep with expectations of reaching 10-20 metres if a large ship structure remains embedded.
Mohamad Muda said scientific verification would involve local and foreign historians, archaeologists, and Malay shipbuilding specialists.
Wood samples from the suspected ship hull will undergo dating tests at Beta Analytic laboratory in the United States.
Additional analysis at the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia will identify the wood species.
Conservation work including desalination has begun to prevent damage to the wooden fragments.
A special conference will validate all historical evidence before official recording.
JWN has conducted staged excavations at Pulau Melaka since 2021, uncovering various artefacts from different historical periods.
Previous discoveries include pottery, porcelain fragments, coins, and wood pieces from merchant ships.
These findings connect to the Melaka Malay Sultanate, Portuguese, and Dutch colonial eras. – Bernama
