1.8 Million-Year-Old Fossil Discovered in Bumiayu, Potentially Older Than Sangiran

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has revealed the discovery of fossils approximately 1.8 million years old in the Bumiayu archaeological site area. This find is considered potentially older than the Sangiran site, which has long been recognised as one of Indonesia’s key centres for early human history.

Herry Yogaswara, Head of the BRIN Archaeology, Language, and Literature Research Organisation, stated that the Bumiayu area holds strategic value in uncovering the history of ancient life, particularly in western Java.

“This area is important from various aspects, ranging from geology, palaeontology, palaeoanthropology, to archaeology,” said Herry on Tuesday (7/4).

From the excavation results, researchers found various fauna fossils such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, turtles, fish, and molluscs. These findings indicate that the area in ancient times was a shallow aquatic environment that later underwent changes to become land.

In addition to fauna fossils, the team also discovered artefacts in the form of stone tools and bones believed to have been used by early humans. This discovery strengthens indications of early human activity in the area.

BRIN assesses that strengthening research and cross-sector collaboration is key to developing Bumiayu as a flagship archaeological area. In the future, this site also has the potential to be developed as an educational destination that benefits the wider community.