The excavation, conducted from April 21 to May 21 this year by researchers from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), has provided new insights into the ancient Kedah (Kedah Tua) civilization, also known as Langkasuka.

The Buddha statue, found in an almost intact state, features complete head, facial features, and clothing details. This discovery, along with other artifacts, offers evidence of Langkasuka's position as a prominent maritime civilization in the region. Local archaeologists suggest these finds could provide further historical details about this ancient period.

Langkasuka, known from historical records as a prosperous Hindu-Buddhist state in the northern Malay Peninsula, has long intrigued researchers. The recent discoveries raise questions about the origins of the craftsmen who created these artifacts and the materials used. Preliminary observations suggest the Buddha statue exhibits features reminiscent of Gandhara art, contrasting with the Gupta period style typically associated with this region.

Inscriptions found at the site are in old Khmer script, indicating possible associations with pre-Angkorian Khmer dynasties. If carbon dating confirms a 7th or 8th century origin, these artifacts could be linked to either the Funan (1st to 6th century CE) and Chenla (6th-8th century CE) periods, both pre-Angkorian Khmer dynasties with Hindu influences and some Buddhist elements.

The findings reflect the complex cultural interactions of the period. Indian influences in religious practices, writing systems, art, and architecture were transmitted through trade, diplomacy, and migration of Indian priests, merchants, and scholars. However, it is essential to note that religious practices in early Southeast Asian kingdoms often blended elements of Hinduism, Buddhism, and local beliefs.

Langkasuka, mentioned as "Lang-ya-xiu" in the 7th century Chinese text Liang Shu (Book of Liang), is described as a Buddhist kingdom with customs similar to Funan. This aligns with archaeological evidence suggesting Funan-Chenla influence in the region, including areas of present-day Pattani, Thailand, and Kedah.

The influence of Funan and Chenla contributed to the broader process of Indianization in Langkasuka, setting the stage for later kingdoms like Srivijaya to exert control over the Malay Peninsula. These discoveries underscore the unique forms of art, architecture, and religious practices that developed in the region, blending Indian and local elements.

As research continues, these finds promise to shed new light on the maritime heritage of ancient Kedah and its role in the complex cultural landscape of early Southeast Asia.