Local History & Heritage
Vol. 6 No. 2 (2026)

The Shipwreck Site at Lancang Kuning Beach, Lagoi, Bintan Island, Riau Islands Province: Archaeological Evidence of the Riau Islands Maritime Network

Lucas Partanda Koestoro (Masyarakat Arkeologi Maritim Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
21 Sep 2026

Abstract

The Indonesian archipelago has historically been closely linked to maritime activities, and its archaeological remains provide important evidence for reconstructing past maritime life. Nevertheless, maritime archaeological research in the Riau Islands, particularly the shipwreck at Lancang Kuning Beach on Bintan Island, remains limited. This study examines the characteristics of the Lancang Kuning shipwreck and situates it within the maritime history of the Riau Islands. Employing an exploratory-descriptive approach, the research draws on archaeological surveys and the 2017 excavation, complemented by analyses of the vessel’s structure, timber material, construction technology, and radiocarbon dating to establish its chronology. The excavation revealed the vessel’s dimensions, wooden components, and a construction system employing dowels and tambuku. At the same time, radiocarbon dating provides a chronological basis for interpreting the site in relation to the development of regional boatbuilding technology. These findings establish the Lancang Kuning shipwreck as significant archaeological evidence for understanding the development of boatbuilding technology, navigation, trade networks, and the maritime-oriented communities of the Riau Islands.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

LHH

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities

Description

Local History & Heritage is a peer-reviewed journal published by Medan Resource Center. This journal publishes articles in the scope of local history and cultural heritage about society, traditions, local wisdom, arts, music, culinary, education, intellectual figures, conflict, myth, spirituality, ...