2007/12/30
'Goldmine' for archaeologistsGEORGE TOWN: With 10 shipwrecks discovered in its waters since 1990, Malaysia is regarded as a wreck haven by international archaeologists.
Swedish naval architect and adventurer Sten Sjostrand said the shipwrecks were discovered in both the South China Sea and the busy Straits of Malacca.
He said a wide variety of historical items of Chinese, Thai and Portuguese origin, dating back between the 11th and 19th century, had been found on the seabed.
"Eight of the shipwrecks were located in the South China Sea while the other two were spotted in the Straits of Malacca.
"The discovery of these sites has attracted scores of archaeologists to investigate sunken ships. This augurs well for the country as well as for its historical significance," he said at the Treasures of the Nanhai exhibition at Traders Hotel here yesterday.
The exhibition is open until Jan 6 from 10am to 9pm.
Sjostrand said the artifacts displayed were priceless treasures excavated by Nanhai Marine Archaeology Sdn Bhd.
"Serious collectors are encouraged to visit the exhibition and pick up some of the artifacts, which are up for sale."
He said the company had unearthed 850 pieces of artifacts, most of which were ceramic.
Sjostrand has had more than 20 years of maritime experience and has visited about 120 shipwrecks.
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