DUN Sarawak: Warning archives ensure the history of Sarawak is not forgotten

KUCHING, 13 Oct: Amendments to the Sarawak State Library Ordinance are essential for strengthening library governance, establishing historical record management and ensuring that state heritage is systematically preserved for future generations.

Dr Safiee Ahmad, a member of the Daro State Legislative Assembly (ADUN), said that the amendment covers four main aspects namely organisational transformation, record and memorial archive management, legislative reform and clarification on state property ownership.

According to him, the introduction of the concept of commemorative archives through Phase 2 and Phase 3 will strengthen efforts to document the history of struggle, contributions of local figures as well as important events that shape the identity of Sarawak society.

"The history of state development including the visit of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly which he described as Malaysia's oldest DUN should be systematically preserved for future generations to reference.

"The record is the collective memory of our ethnically diverse society. With clear legal provisions, the historical treasures of Sarawak can be preserved from extinction in time", he said.

He said this while discussing the Sarawak State Library (Amendment) Bill 2026 at the 19th Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Conference today.

Shafiee also views Sarawak as requiring more efficient archive management through state-level entities without relying entirely on the Malaysian National Archives.

In terms of administration, he said, the coordination of powers between the State Council Meeting, responsible ministers and Library Management Board through Grades 4 to 11 could streamline decision-making process as well as reduce bureaucracy.

"The step is important to ensure that the implementation of digital literacy initiatives and community development programmes in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 can be implemented more efficiently", he said.

He said the efforts also supported the development of libraries, digital centers and innovation in Daro Region to expand access for rural communities to science and technology facilities.

Touching on the legislative aspect, Shafiee explained that the introduction of Section 29A allowing the State Council to modify schedules through notices in government news will give flexibility to the legal framework to adapt to technological changes as well as current administrative needs.

Meanwhile, he said that clarification on government ownership of property through Section 6 including the power to place property ownership rights on behalf of Sarawak State Library is important for ensuring transparency in asset ownership, financial accountability and protection of library infrastructure.