Lenggong Valley, UNESCO World Heritage Site 2012
Lenggong Valley is home to the oldest human settlement in Peninsular Malaysia. The most significant archaeology discovery was Perak Man, the oldest most complete human skeleton found in Gua Gunung Runtuh, in 1991 by a team of archaeologists led by Professor Emeritus Datin Paduka Zuraina Majid.
We have yet to visit the caves as special permission is needed from the Department of National Heritage. I am afraid that when we have the time to do so, the caves might not be in good condition to the public. It was posted by The Star in December 2019 that the caves are in deteriorating state. Urgent action must be done immediately. I hope Lenggong Valley will be taken seriously as this place is indeed a pride of Malaysia.
Different soil and stones from surrounding caves in Lenggong Valley
Stone tools
Graffiti inside a cave
This was interesting information to me!
The oldest indigenous community in Peninsular Malaysia, the Semang people, originated from Africa! The map above showed 150,000 years people starting migrating from Africa. They crossed the Red to Yemen. Peninsular Malaysia happened to be the ancient route for those who wanted to go to Australia. So, 70,000 to 74,000 years ago, some people have decided to stay in Lenggong Valley.
The oldest indigenous community in Peninsular Malaysia, the Semang people, originated from Africa! The map above showed 150,000 years people starting migrating from Africa. They crossed the Red to Yemen. Peninsular Malaysia happened to be the ancient route for those who wanted to go to Australia. So, 70,000 to 74,000 years ago, some people have decided to stay in Lenggong Valley.
Diorama of prehistoric life
Volcanic ash stone from the Mount Toba eruption 75 000 years ago
It was believed that Perak Man was an important member of his tribe as he was given a respectful burial. He was found in a fetal position and many things were buried alongside him; stone tools, shells and meat from animals for food.
The spot where Perak Man was discovered in Gunung Runtuh cave in 1991
Gua Gunung Runtuh @ Gunung Runtuh Cave is the largest limestone massif in Lenggong. It is only accessible by foot; a 45 minute walk from Kampung Ulu Jepai. It is approximately 150 metres above sea level. This cave is where the Perak Man was discovered.
Prehistoric community's diet
These people were nomads who lived from one cave to another. They hunted in small groups using stone tools. They hunted animals such as squirrels, deer, monitor lizards, monkeys, wild boar and many others. They are also skilled in catching fish and turtles. Whenever possible, they also collected vegetables and fruits, and medicinal herbs.
I am not sure what this was. A horse?
Diorama of daily prehistoric activities in a cave
74 000 year old stone tools discovered from Kota Tampan site
Harimau Cave 4000 years old
Gunung Runtuh Cave 10.000 years ago. This was where Perak man was discovered.
Jawa Hill - 200 000 to 100 000 years ago
Stones found in surrounding caves
Footed pottery found in Harimau Cave
Shell necklace was found in a burial some 4000 years ago
Bangles and earrings were excavated from Harimau Cave 2000 years ago
Floor mats by the indigenous Lanoh people
Weaving by the indigenous Lanoh people in Lenggong
Malaysia has 4 World Heritage Sites.
Mulu Caves National Park in Sarawak, 2000
Kinabalu National Park in Sabah, 2000
Melaka and George Town, 2008
Lenggong Valley, 2012
Mulu Caves National Park in Sarawak, 2000
Kinabalu National Park in Sabah, 2000
Melaka and George Town, 2008
Lenggong Valley, 2012
We had a great time learning about early settlements in Peninsular Malaysia. Just wished 1000th times we were able to go explore the caves!
Visiting Hours:
Monday to Sunday - 9 AM to 5 PM
Friday - 9 AM to 12 PM and 3 PM to 5 PM
Lenggong Valley Archaeological Gallery
Address: Department of National Heritage, 33400 Kota Tampan, Lenggong, Perak, Malaysia
Email: lenggong@heritage.gov.my
Tel: +605-7679700
No comments:
Post a Comment