MARITIME EXPLORATIONS

M1J Wreck

(1583)

Background

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Several months of side-scan-sonar and magnetometer survey in the Malacca Straits led to the discovery of three 16th or early 17th century European shipwrecks, two of them lying side-by-side on the seabed. Diving conditions were generally appalling with strong currents and near zero visibility. Slack water during neap tides provided the only visual survey and photo opportunities.

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The first wreck to be located has been designated M1J (Malacca survey 1, side-scan target J). Extensive research suggests that it is the ship of Portuguese Admiral Coutinho. His gunpowder room exploded during a battle with the Achenese in 1583 sending the ship straight to the bottom. This would make M1J the oldest European shipwreck so far discovered in Malaysia.

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The other two wrecks lying side-by-side have been designated M2BW (west) and M2BE (east). They have clearly been stripped of all armament and fittings before being burnt and sunk while lashed together. The only artefacts of note are stoneware fragments and stone cannon balls. It is thought that these vessels are more likely to be late 16th than early 17th century. They are both European and therefore probably Portuguese.

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Only preliminary excavation has been carried out on these three sites. The Malaysian Heritage Department once expressed some interest in excavating the M1J site. The site has no commercial value but considerable historical value for Malaysia. A Government funded excavation would be most appropriate.

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Publication

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Portuguese Shipwreck Found off Malacca, Flecker, M., Heritage Asia Magazine, Vol. 4, No.1 , January -March 2007.

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