National Archives urged to engage communities to preserve key historical records
Slug: izarchive
HL: National Archives urged to engage communities to preserve key historical records
Bernama
KLANG: The National Unity Ministry has urged the National Archives of Malaysia (Nam) to strengthen its engagement with individuals, historians, organisations, and cultural figures who possess valuable historical materials, to ensure that the nation does not lose significant parts of its historical legacy.
Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said such efforts could be implemented through initiatives like the Community Archives programme, aimed at enriching the country's historical narrative and providing greater context to past events.
"Many local stories and events, from before independence to the present day, have yet to be documented. These experiences are crucial in helping us understand the broader context of our national history.
"Our history isn't solely found in textbooks or official records, it lives in the stories and memories of our communities. Every village, town, and district has its own unique narrative that contributes to our national identity," he said after launching the Community Archives programme here today.
Aaron also encouraged the public to contribute personal collections to NAM to help expand the national archive and fill existing gaps in historical documentation.
He proposed establishing a Community Archive centre in every community and district in collaboration with local authorities, as a means of sustaining active community involvement in the identification, collection, acquisition, and preservation of historical heritage.
"A dedicated Community Archives portal could also be developed, allowing researchers, communities, and contributors to access and explore historical materials online.
"These individuals are witnesses to key moments, custodians of tradition, and agents of change. Without their active involvement, much of our heritage risks being lost over time," he added.
Earlier, Aaron launched the Community Archive programme at the Royal Klang City Council (MBDK) Heritage Gallery.
Among the highlights of the programme were sessions for the submission of materials and documents, material copying services, collection conservation and book-binding services, as well as exhibition booths and demonstrations related to art, culture, and the country's historical heritage.
Also present were Nam director-general Datuk Jaafar Sidek Abdul Rahman, Nam advisory board chairman Tan Sri Alimuddin Mohd Dom, and MBDK mayor Datuk Abd Hamid Hussain.
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