The waters of Terengganu, especially around Kapas Island, contain valuable maritime heritage, including a Japanese shipwreck believed to date back to World War II. More than just debris, the wreck represents an important historical record of regional geopolitics, trade, conflict, and international exchange, enriching Malaysia’s underwater cultural landscape.

As a maritime nation, Malaysia is responsible for safeguarding such heritage in line with the National Heritage Act 2005 and the UNESCO 2001 Convention. The Kapas Island shipwreck holds significant historical, scientific, educational, and tourism value, making it a strong candidate for designation as an underwater cultural heritage site.

However, the site is under threat from treasure hunting, unregulated diving, and natural deterioration. Without proper protection, it risks being lost to future generations. Official recognition would enable structured, sustainable conservation aligned with international standards.

Designating the wreck as a heritage site would strengthen Malaysia’s maritime identity, promote underwater archaeological tourism, and raise public awareness about preserving and leveraging maritime heritage for sustainable development.

The wreck sits about 6.5 nautical miles off Kapas Island at a depth of around 40 meters, and approximately 7.7 nautical miles from the mainland coast.