The discovery of the “Besse” skeleton took place at the pre-historic site of Leang Pangingnge, Mallawa district, Maros regency, South Sulawesi. The discovery of Besse Skeleton has become the central issue in the academic world. Moreover, the discovery has changed the interpretation of the history of human evolution. Based on the study, the skeleton is a woman in her 20s and has Denisovan DNA, a relative of the Austromelanesoid Race.
The historical finding was done with the hard work and determination of the research team led by Prof. Akin. He is a professor of Archeology who currently serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB). The research team has been through many interesting stories to discover the skeleton.
Prof. Akin explained that the research started in 2015 in collaboration with University Sains Malaysia (USM). The research team conducted a survey and excavation at the designated location. Prof. Akin said that the selected location was based on reports from people around the site, supported by the strategic location, where a river flanks a cave. This kind of condition is usually the place where ancient human activities took place.
“When selecting the location, the team gave me credence to determine the point of excavation. I then pointed to one spot and said that there was a skeleton under the ground. After three days of excavation, we eventually unearthed a human skeleton,” explained Prof. Akin.
Based on initial identification, Prof. Akin identified that the human skeleton shows the characteristics of a young woman. This identification is in accordance with the analysis of the skeleton of the skull, especially in the back teeth. The skeleton was not immediately removed from the excavation point because it needed special treatment and adaptation process.
The research team wanted to continue the excavation process, yet the team was lack of equipment and funding. Therefore, the excavation pit was then closed according to the scientific and proper procedure in the archaeological research.
The research was then continued in 2017 with the support of internal research funding by Universitas Hasanuddin. The funding was used to purchase equipment that could be applied to remove the skeleton from the excavation pit.
As an effort of the research development, Prof. Akin involved some international researchers from Griffith University, Australia. As the research developed, we were able to perform DNA Analysis from the skeleton. In Forensic Anthropology, DNA Analysis helps us identify and extract information related to the general physical description of the skeleton, such as gender, age, and race.
“We thank Prof. Dwia, the Rector of Universitas Hasanuddin, who always give us support and financial assistance. Our beloved rector also actively engaged in the excavation process and paved the way for an advanced study on the skeleton,” added Prof. Akin.
The research then was published by one of the most prestigious academic journals, Nature, Issue of August 25, 2021. Prof. Akin and Prof. Dwia are listed as authors of the article entitled “Genome of middle Holocene hunter-gatherer from Wallacea” with 28 other authors.
Moreover, Prof. Akin revealed that the team has been through a long process and various memorable stories, including paranormal experience beyond reason. However, he wisely responded to it as a valuable experience. He hopes that other researchers can continue to improve themselves and engage in various research projects as part of a contribution for Indonesia.
The discovery has a remarkable significance for science, especially to reveal the historical identity of Indonesia. The ancient human skeleton named “Besse” shows that the diversity of Indonesia is complex.
The discovery also proves the sharpness of the archaeological and research instinct of Prof. Akin. The decision of the excavation site where they found the “Iron” skeleton came from a combination of knowledge, experience, and instincts of the researcher.
Kumara Tungga Dewa, S.S.
Editor: Ishaq Rahman, AMIPR
