Unity Minister: National Archives must evolve, bring history closer to people

Aaron when delivering his welcoming speech at the Sarawak History International Conference at Wisma Melayu Sarawak on Oct 1, 2026. Photo: JaPEN Sarawak

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 1: The National Archives of Malaysia must enter a new era by expanding its role beyond preserving the nation’s historical heritage to bringing history closer to the people, making it more accessible, understandable and meaningful to all Malaysians.

Minister of National Unity Dato Sri Aaron Ago Dagang said the shift was crucial to ensuring history remained a collective memory that connects generations while strengthening nation-building efforts.

“The time has come for the National Archives of Malaysia to enter a new era of relevance, moving beyond merely preserving history towards bringing history closer to the people, because a living archive is one that is accessible, understood and collectively owned by the people,” he said.

He said the approach was also in line with international developments that increasingly emphasised digital access and greater public participation in appreciating and engaging with historical heritage.

Aaron said this in his welcoming speech at the Statesman Lecture at the Sarawak History International Conference 2.0 2026 at Wisma Melayu Sarawak here today.

He said history formed the foundation of nation-building, which was shaped not only by shared territories but also by a sense of belonging, common values and shared aspirations.

In Malaysia, he said, nation-building was rooted in the country’s history, diversity of identities and shared experiences, including Sarawak’s distinct historical development and identity, as well as the formation of Malaysia through the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

“Therefore, understanding Malaysia’s history is vital in enabling society to appreciate differences in our historical roots while identifying the common ground that unites us as one nation,” he said.

Aaron said the Ministry of National Unity would continue broadening public discourse on history and nation-building, including through the Nation-Building Conference scheduled for Nov 30, 2026.

He said the ministry would also continue strengthening digital access and public participation in appreciating and engaging with the nation’s historical heritage.

Also present were Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and other dignitaries. — DayakDaily