Salvage firm keen to resume treasure hunt

MALACCA: Like the enduring appeal of the 18th century tale Treasure Island, Pulau Nangka here continues to draw companies keen on finding ancient treasure that is reputedly buried in a cave on the island.

Treasure Heritage Sdn Bhd, a salvage firm, has shown interest in resuming the search for valuables in Pulau Nangka, an island 17km from the coast here.

A source said the company had requested an agreement with the state government on the matter.

It is believed that Treasure Heritage initially attempted to salvage the buried treasure about two decades ago.

When asked about the matter yesterday, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Idris Haron said he would announce details later.

In an interview about three months ago, Idris said the state government wanted the excavation to continue and would invite bids for the job.

It was previously reported that Smart Partnership International (M) Sdn Bhd found two medallions inside the cave last year.

Malacca Museum Corporation (Perzim) said the items could date back to the Majapahit Empire in the 13th century.

However, Smart Partnership International’s contract ended when it did not meet its deadline.