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UMT’s Archaeology Training Centre to help ASEAN with underwater archaeological conservation effort

UMT’s Archaeology Training Centre to help ASEAN with underwater archaeological conservation effort

Thursday, 11/11/2021

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ASEAN representatives must find the best formula to protect underwater treasures that have significant historical value.

Ten countries worked together and gave their high commitment to ensure the success of the 1st ASEAN Seminar on Preservation and Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage 2021, which was held at Sultan Mizan Hall, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT).

Dato’ Wira Dr Noor Zari Hamat, Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism, Art, and Culture, said that the first-time seminar served as a medium for sharing knowledge, expertise, and experience regarding underwater cultural heritage management.

“The seminar is part of our continuous efforts to show that we care about protecting important and valuable underwater treasures from all threats including uncontrolled development,” he said.

Meanwhile, UMT Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Mazlan Abd Ghaffar said that the holding of the international seminar was in line with UMT’s role as a university that focuses on marine science.

“UMT will use this event as a platform for drafting future plans based on the sharing of expertise and scientific studies on underwater archaeology,” he said.

“The setting up of Underwater Archaeology Training Centre by UMT will enable proper planning and effective implementation to ensure the conservation of underwater archaeological treasures for future generations.

“The training centre will collaborate with government agencies and other interested parties to further promote archaeological activities in Malaysian waters.

Professor Mazlan added that commitment from everyone is needed to make the conservation effort on underwater archaeology successful.

“I believe that all of us need to do our best to initiate this project involving all ASEAN countries so that we can expedite the conservation process,” he said.

“Steps to take will be based on the outputs of this seminar to ensure effective conservation and protection of underwater cultural heritage.”

 

Published by:
Corporate Communication Office
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu