Ancient Kedah As A Trans-Oceanic Economic Hub: Recent Findings In The Bukit Choras Archaeological Site

This lecture presents Ancient Kedah, specifically the Bujang Valley complex, not as a peripheral entity but as a pivotal trans-oceanic economic hub within the maritime Silk Road.

We will explore the broader settlement patterns and site distribution that underpinned this sophisticated network, revealing a landscape organised for trade and production. The focus then shifts to the recent groundbreaking excavations at the site of Bukit Choras, which challenge conventional understandings of Kedah's spatial organisation. Findings from this unique, isolated temple complex will be discussed through multiple lenses: its revealing paleo-environmental context, geo-chemical analyses of artefacts tracing cultural exchange and material culture, as well as studies of its Sanskrit inscriptions, stupa architecture and statues. These multidisciplinary findings position Bukit Choras as a significant, yet enigmatic, node in the 8th-9th century CE maritime world, demonstrating profound artistic and religious connections to the Buddhist traditions in the trans-oceanic in the context of Ancient Kedah’s position as an economic hub. This evidence collectively argues for Ancient Kedah’s deeply integrated and dynamic role in the cross-cultural and economic exchanges that shaped early Southeast Asia.

The Art and Archaeology of Pre-Modern Hindu-Buddhist Southeast Asia Lecture Series

Jointly organized by CSEAS and the SOAS-Alphawood Asian Art Programme, this lecture series invites leading experts to share their latest insights and research on Hindu-Buddhist Southeast Asia.