The Research Team from the Global Archeology Research Center of the University of Science Malaysia led by Dr Nasha bin Rodziadi Khaw has managed to find a complete human-shaped sculpture at Bukit Choras Archaeological Heritage Site, Yan, Kedah.
Phase III Archaeological Research is a collaboration between the National Heritage Department and USM lasted from April 21 until May 21 managed to find other significant and important artifacts for Malaysia.
Phase III Archaeological Research has revealed the building structure on the north and west walls so that it clearly shows the main structure of Bukit Choras temple which has a unique architecture.
In addition, stratigraphic studies, contour mapping, and more careful documentation have been carried out on the temple structure and the laterite blocks found.
This important discovery at the site is a sculpture made of stucco which is a mixture of lime, water and sand.
In addition, a Sanskrit inscription was found carved on the body of the stone as well as fragments of earthen pottery.
As a safety measure and further research, the relic was taken out of the site at Bukit Choras and placed in the laboratory of the Global Archaeological Research Center, USM
A comparative study between these newly discovered sculptures and other sculptures, especially from the civilizations of India, China and the Malay Archipelago, can provide an important insight into the society of Old Kedah (Kedah Tua).
The discovery of another Sanskrit inscription shows the importance and significance of Bukit Choras as a religious site.
The inscription contains the mantra ‘sagaramatiparipccha’ telling the Buddhist doctrine.
The latest discovery at the Bukit Choras site certainly opens up a new space for interpretation regarding the geostrategic position of Old Kedah as an important city in the maritime trade route of Southeast Asia.
This research also confirms the commitment given by MOTAC through the National Heritage Department (Jabatan Warisan Negara JWN) and USM in producing new data to enrich history and preserve national heritage treasures.
MOTAC through JWN will strive to intensify the field of national heritage research including the field, including archeology, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the local universities to lead national heritage research.
This close cooperation can increase the number of new tourism products for Kedah and Malaysia by the Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Through the conservation, maintenance, protection and promotion of national heritage, the discovery will certainly become an archaeo-tourism asset.
The impact is very positive on the support and service sector which will eventually bring economic spillover and prosperity to the local people as a whole.
As a result of the final research, MOTAC hopes that the artifacts will be exhibited at the site itself or at a selected museum.
Photo Credit — MOTAC (Jabatan Warisan Negara).
