11 July 2010
The foundation believes that the pyramid, also known as ‘Piramida Sunca’ or ‘Pyramid of the Sun’ is located at Mount Visocica, north of Sarajevo.
According to Assoc. Prof. Mokhtar Saidin, Director of PPAG USM, the first team from PPAG, USM comprising 8 staff and postgraduate students conducted their research at the site from 10-23 June 2010.
“The first team was led by Assoc. Prof. Stephen Chia, Deputy Director of PPAG and we will be sending three more teams of researchers in stages. The second team is expected to leave on 10 July, followed by the third team on 31 July and then by the fourth team on 19 September 2010. In addition, we have been given the task of developing expertise in the area of archaeology in Bosnia so that they can continue with these efforts without having to rely on foreign expertise. There is still a lot more that needs to be done to ensure the existence of the pyramid. However, the invitation by the government of Bosnia is proof that PPAG USM is globally recognized,” he said at a press conference at PPAG USM today.
At the same press conference, Assoc. Prof. Mokhtar also announced the success of the research team in uncovering a new archaeological site in Jeniang, Kedah. It suggested that the extent of the early civilization at Sg. Batu, Lembah Bujang, Kedah was not less than 1000 sq. feet, far greater than was first anticipated.
Apart from 10 sites believed to be ancient smelting centres around Kg. Gading, Jeniang, Kedah, his team also discovered 7 furnaces that were still intact.
“Prior to this, the furnaces that were found were not complete because the upper portion had been destroyed. Nevertheless, the current findings are clear and prove that the civilization at the 1st Century in Sg. Batu revolved around the iron industry. We are also trying to trace the settlements and burial sites of this community, believed to be in the same area,” he said.
Assoc. Prof. Mokhtar also announced the joint efforts of PPAG USM and the National Heritage Department to organize the International Conference on Lembah Bujang & Early Civilization in Southeast Asia, to be held from 5-7 July 2010 in Royale Chulan Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.
The conference will witness the presentation of more than 20 papers and discussions related to the latest discovery in Sg. Batu, Lembah Bujang, Kedah since February 2010 and will involve experts from all over the world.
According to Assoc. Prof. Mokhtar all the archaeologists involved in the conference will be given a tour of the excavation site at Sg. Batu so that they can see it for themselves.
Date Submitted : 1-7-2010
Date Start : 1-7-2010
Date End : 1-7-2010
Related Files : PIRAMID IN BOSNIA - WEB.jpg
For further information please contact Izam Fairus Kamaruddin (e-mail)