The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has apprehended three fishing vessels off Pulau Pengikik, Bintan, suspected of illegally salvaging sunken ship cargo, including artifacts from China’s Song Dynasty.
The operation, led by the Directorate General of Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance (PSDKP), intercepted the vessels carrying over a thousand pieces of valuable antiquities, highlighting Indonesia’s efforts to protect its underwater cultural heritage.
Adin Nurawaluddin, Director-General of PSDKP, confirmed the seizure of 1,218 relics from the vessels, indicating potential Song Dynasty origin, dating between the 10th to 13th centuries.
The operation was conducted by the Marine and Fisheries Surveillance Vessel HIU 11, marking a significant effort to combat illegal underwater treasure hunting in Indonesian waters.
The relics, including large and small urns, plates, bowls, and ancient coins, represent significant historical, cultural, and economic value.
Violators face administrative sanctions, including government-enforced seizures, in line with Indonesia’s strict regulations on underwater cultural heritage management.
The Indonesian government will collaborate with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology to determine the status of the recovered items, whether they qualify as Objects Suspected of Cultural Heritage (ODCB) or not.
This event underscores the rich maritime heritage in the region and Indonesia’s commitment to safeguarding it, presenting a point of interest for Singaporeans and international visitors keen on underwater cultural history.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has captured three vessels carrying artifacts from the Song Dynasty in a bid to protect the country’s underwater heritage. The recovered items shed light on the historical trade routes and cultural exchanges in the region.
Source: Batam News, Ruai TV (2023)
