KUCHING: There is a need for a specialised institution dedicated to preserving and conserving the history and heritage of Borneo.
In stating this Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63, State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali
said the role played by the Sarawak Museum Department needs to be expanded to support this goal.
Especially in preserving historical documents that date back hundreds of years.
She added that the Borneo Studies Centre at Unimas needs to mobilise its resources and produce scholars who are well-versed in Borneo’s history, especially on Sarawak.
She said this during a press conference after officiating at the International Conference of Sarawak History here Wednesday (Sept 13).
Sharifah Hasidah said she will bring up the matter for discussion with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg soon.
“History is very important in human life, providing us with guidance and lessons to improve upon past mistakes, allowing us to create a brighter future.
“Without learning from the errors and missteps of the past, we might repeat past mistakes, which can harm not only individuals but also families, communities and even nations.
“History also allows us to remember the glory of our past, the dedication and determination of our leaders and people of the past. It fosters a sense of patriotism and love for our country and state, particularly when we study the history of our land and homeland,” she added.
In a related development, she also hoped for the prompt inclusion of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) in the history curriculum.
An accurate historical account is essential for children to gain a precise understanding of Malaysia’s formation, she said.
“We cannot deny this history because it indeed exists, has occurred, and should be incorporated into the history curriculum,” she added.
