Sungai batu: Sungai Batu, Lembah Bujang archaeological Prof Datuk Dr Mokhtar Saidin was named Kedah Tokoh Maal Hijrah 1447H today. Dr. Mokhtar, 62, who was born in Kampung Bukit Pekan, Kampar in Perak, is the key pioneer behind the discovery of the ancient Kedah civilisation that has been established in Sungai Batu since the 8th century BC.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Mokhtar began his early education at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Bukit Pekan and continued his studies at the Anglo-Chinese Secondary School Ipoh, before pursuing a matriculation programme at the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and subsequently continuing his studies at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in the fields of geology and archaeology. After completing his Master's degree in Archaeology at USM, he advanced to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) level in the same field at USM, reflecting his commitment and interest in the development of archaeological knowledge, particularly in the context of history and civilisation in this region.
Dr. Mokhtar expressed surprise at receiving the award, noting that such awards are traditionally given to religious leaders. He stated, "This is the first time recognition has been awarded to an academic conducting research related to archaeology and history, so I feel it is something very good for the state and country." He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the field of knowledge as a foundation for national progress and character.
He also highlighted the need to develop Sungai Batu as an educational and economic resource for Kedah, stating, "I am also still producing globally impactful high-ranking publications about Sungai Batu in addition to educating students who are interested in learning about this civilisation and history." Dr. Mokhtar mentioned the historical significance of the region, citing the work of Al-Kindi and Al-Biruni, who referenced Kedah as a source of high-quality iron.
Dr. Mokhtar's archaeological research at the Sungai Batu site began in 2007, following a request from the former Menteri Besar of Kedah, the late Datuk Seri Diraja Ustaz Azizan Abdul Razak. His work has led to significant discoveries, including numerous iron smelting furnaces and over two million tuyere units, which are archaeometallurgical tools used in the iron smelting process.