The two medallion-like artifacts found in Pulau Nangka on April 31 were believed to be ancient Majapahit amulets, said Malacca Chief Minister Idris Haron.

He said a study carried out by the relevant quarters revealed that the artifacts could not possibly be ancient coins, as speculated by many, because words of an ancient Javanese mantra were carved on them.

The possible link between the amulets and the Malacca Sultanate and Pulau Nangka, however, had yet to be proved, he said.

“These kind of amulets were also found in other historic sites, such as the old fort and river banks in Malacca. So, it is difficult to specifically link the amulets with Pulau Nangka.”

He said this to reporters after opening the National Speakers Seminar 2014, which was attended by Senate president Abu Zahar Ujang and Dewan Rakyat speaker Pandikar Amin Mulia, as well as all state assembly speakers.

The two artifacts were found by Smart Partnership International (M) Sdn Bhd, the company commissioned by the state government to detect and salvage treasures.

At present, Idris said, the company, whose contract ended on April 30, has been allowed to temporarily continue the salvage works in Pulau Nangka.

- Bernama