| Abstract: |
In November and December 2007, an archaeological survey was conducted by the author and a research team from the Centre for Global Archaeological Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang with the cooperation of the Sarawak Museum Department, Kuching in the limestone caves of the Bau area, southwest Sarawak in order to search for a site for the authors Master of Arts (MA) study. The result of the survey determined Gua Tupak to be a highly potential site and consequently, excavations were carried out at the site in February and March 2008. The excavations at Gua Tupak yielded valuable archaeological data that could aid in providing information on the prehistory of the site and the Bau area. The archaeological data include various types of artefacts such as shell remains, animal bones, ceramic sherds and stone artefacts. In addition, charcoal and shell samples were collected for radiocarbon dating, soil samples were collected for palynological analysis and soil profiles of the excavated trenches were recorded. Results of the analyses of artefacts and interpretations of the archaeological data recovered from Gua Tupak suggest that the site was used as a temporary habitation site or shelter with two main phases of occupation
the Early Phase with a radiocarbon date of around 1,190 ± 40 B.P., and the Late Phase with radiocarbon dates ranging from 270 ± 50 B.P. to 170 ± 40 B.P. Based on the findings at Gua Tupak, the site was probably frequented by hunting and gathering groups. However, there is also a possibility that the more recent archaeological assemblage at the main cave area (the Late Phase)represent activity remains of birds nest collectors. The main activity at Gua Tupak was focused on subsistence. The inhabitants of Gua Tupak conducted hunting and gathering activities in a variety of ecological habitats such as the forest, riverine and estuarine environments. Analyses of artefacts indicate that there was no major change in lifestyle from the Early Phase to the Late Phase. General similarities in the faunal assemblage indicate that similar animals and molluscs were hunted and gathered for food in the Early Phase and the Late Phase. In addition, similar earthenware and stone tool manufacturing technology also persisted from the Early Phase to the Late Phase. As a whole, this study has contributed valuable information to shed light on the chronology, cultural sequence, site function and activities of the early inhabitants of Gua Tupak and the Bau area, as well as Sarawak and Malaysia in general.
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