Book Description

This book discusses the archaeological research and the development carried out at the site of Bukit Tengkorak in Semporna, Sabah from 1994 to 2017. Archaeological findings from Bukit Tengkorak have shown that the site is an important Neolithic site in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, dated around 3,000 years ago. Archaeological surveys and excavations at Bukit Tengkorak had revealed that the site is very rich in archaeological evidence and deposits such as pottery, stone tools, and food remains. Scientific studies conducted at Bukit Tengkorak had concluded that it is one of the largest pottery-making sites in Southeast Asia. Significant discoveries from Bukit Tengkorak include archaeological evidence on prehistoric human migration and one of the longest maritime trade or exchange routes in the world during the Neolithic Period. In addition, this book discusses the local and traditional Bajau pottery-making of Semporna which is believed to be connected to the prehistoric pottery of Bukit Tengkorak, as well as brief information on other archaeological sites and archaeology of Semporna and Sabah. Finally, this book presents the history and various stages of development of Bukit Tengkorak as an archaeological heritage site for archaeological tourism in Semporna, Sabah, Malaysia. The Malay version of this book, Arkeologi Bukit Tengkorak, Sabah won the National Book Award in 2016 ("Buku Arkeologi Terbaik" category).