By Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hasrizal Shaari

A recent programme jointly organized by Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) and the Department of National Heritage (JWN) became more prestigious and meaningful with the presence of Her Highness Tengku Puteri Utama Raja, daughter of His Royal Highness the Sultan of Terengganu, in her capacity as UMT’s Conservation Ambassador.

The programme, the ASEAN Underwater Archaeological Meet Up 2025 and the Bidong Shipwreck Excavation Phase Five was successfully held from 18 – 22 September, making Bidong Island, long renowned for its maritime history, the centre of attention once again.

Tengku Puteri Utama Raja is well known for her deep passion for scuba diving and underwater photography. This keen interest has led her to take part in the shipwreck excavation activities carried out in the waters of Bidong Island.

Her Highness was not merely a guest of honour but actively participated, diving and assisting the underwater archaeology team in excavation work at the historic site.

Her involvement drew much attention from participants, especially as she showed great enthusiasm in observing the process of uncovering and recording the ship’s remains, such as planks, keel timbers, and pegs found at the Bidong Shipwreck site.

She also made a brief visit to the Bidong Island Marine Natural Research Station to observe the conservation process of artefacts salvaged by UMT staff and postgraduate students.

According to Baharim Mustapa, UMT’s technical director for archaeological diving and scientific diving instructor, Tengku Puteri Utama Raja’s involvement greatly motivated the research team.

“Her Highness demonstrated strong interest in the nation’s maritime heritage and even joined other divers underwater. This is an honour and a symbol of support for efforts to preserve our national treasures,” he said.

The programme brought together underwater archaeologists from Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and experts from Flinders University, Australia.

The rescued artefacts will undergo an initial desalination process to prevent damage, as centuries of immersion in a marine environment have left salt deposits that can harm the physical integrity of each item.

The fifth phase of the excavation is considered a success as its main objective, examining the original wooden structure of the Bidong Shipwreck, was achieved. The discovery of flooring and keel sections provided clearer insights into shipbuilding technology and maritime trade networks of the 16th century.

It is hoped that this historic programme will elevate UMT and JWN’s reputation internationally as leaders in Malaysia’s underwater archaeology, while also promoting Bidong Island as a national heritage site worthy of pride.