Prehistoric Burials Unearthed in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA—Live Science reports that prehistoric burials have been discovered in Malaysia’s Nenggiri Valley. Zuliskandar Ramli of the National University of Malaysia said that the remains of 16 individuals were recovered from 13 limestone caves at four different sites. Fifteen of the individuals were buried in a crouched position, indicating that they date to the pre-Neolithic period. The oldest of these remains have been dated to between 14,000 and 16,000 years ago. “This is the most complete and oldest skeleton in a fully flexed position found in the country,” Ramli said. One skeleton, found in an extended position, has been radiocarbon dated to the Neolithic period, some 6,000 years ago. More than 70,000 artifacts, including fragments of stone tools, pottery, and stone ornaments, were also recovered from the caves. Stone tools, red ochre, and crystals were found in the pre-Neolithic graves, Ramli added, while the Neolithic-period grave contained a stone bracelet, polished stone tools, and pottery. The sites will be flooded in 2027 as part of a hydroelectric project. To read about a recent discovery in Malaysia's Bujang Valley, go to "Around the World: Malaysia."