Government Committed To Preserve Heritage Sites-Minister

MERBOK (Kedah), March 19 (Bernama) -- The government is commited towards preserving and conserving archaeological sites in Sungai Batu and Lembah Bujang, said Tourism and Culture Minister Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz. He said currently, the ministry was examining the application from the National Heritage Department to develop the Lembah Bujang Archaeology Heritage Complex comprising in-situ archaeological sites, an exhibition gallery, an auditorium, a cafetaria and a gift shop. Mohamed Nazri said the application would be brought to Prime Minister Najib Razak as soon as possible, to ensure the research work could be carried out smoothly and the artifacts found were well preserved. He said, the government should prioritise the matter as to ensure the artifacts were not destroyed due to natural factors. Mohamed Nazri disclosed this to reporters after visiting the Sungai Batu archaeological site here Thursday. He also stressed that no parties were allowed to destroy the heritage site, and insisted that the name of Sungai Batu be maintained in the future. -- BERNAMA