via New Sarawak Tribune, 08 August 2023: Sarawak’s Santubong, the largest archaeological site in Malaysia, reveals a rich history of trade and iron mining between the 11th and 13th centuries, with artefacts linking it to China’s trade routes in Southeast Asia.
Archaeological excavations at these sites have uncovered various artefacts such as stone carvings depicting people and symbols, iron remains, crucibles used for iron-smelting, earthenware fragments, gold and metal objects, as well as glass beads and bangles.
Based on the evidence found, it is believed that the Santubong sites in the Sarawak River delta area used to be a significant centre for traders and iron mining between the 11th and 13th centuries AD.
For instance, earthenware fragments discovered at a construction site in Bukit Maras near Kampung Santubong provide evidence that this area was once a port.
Source: Santubong’s past, in Tom Harrisson’s footsteps – New Sarawak Tribune
