Latest news with #DepartmentofMuseumsMalaysia
The Star
3 days ago
- General
- The Star
Preserving heritage in a digital age
AS DIGITAL technology transforms daily life, Malaysia's museums face the challenge of remaining relevant. This issue was central to the Malaysia International Museum Day 2025 seminar in Kuala Lumpur, themed 'The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.' Held in Kuala Lumpur, the event brought together regional cultural custodians, academics and community voices to reimagine the role of museums. Museums are no longer just quiet halls of the past; they must become dynamic hubs for learning, innovation and dialogue, declared International Councils of Museums Malaysia (Icom) chairperson and Department of Museums Malaysia director-general Datuk Kamarul Baharin A. Kasim. He said museums were uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between tradition and technology. International Museum Day, celebrated annually on May 18 since 1977, also emphasises the need for museums to adapt and innovate to remain relevant, he added. The celebration spans 158 countries and sees participation from over 37,000 museums worldwide. Museums face the challenge of remaining relevant. — Photos: ONG SOON HIN/The Star Youth and new technologies Kamarul's keynote outlined three key strategies to guide the evolution of Malaysia's museums: protecting intangible heritage, engaging youth and adopting new technologies. While most visitors associate museums with ancient textiles or dusty heirlooms, the essence of culture often lies in what cannot be touched – rituals, songs, dialects, craftsmanship, and storytelling traditions. 'Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is increasingly at risk, and museums are uniquely placed to act as stewards of this fragile heritage,' said Kamarul. This, he said, resonated with the call to harness 'youth power' and their growing role in shaping the future of museums. 'Our youth are the innovators and leaders of tomorrow. 'It is crucial we understand how to harness this energy and creativity to ensure museums remain relevant and appealing to future generations,' he emphasised. The exterior of Muzium Negara in Kuala Lumpur. Teaching intangible heritage In his keynote address, Icom executive board member Prof Zhao Feng said teaching ICH and training intangible inheritors in both universities and museums were equally important. He hopes to build a platform for this at universities and museums, especially in the Asia-Pacific. 'The plan is to offer courses in ICH worldwide. For example, a two-week course inviting people from five countries to show their techniques, share their cultures and experience themes around typical textile techniques,' said Prof Zhao, who is also Unesco Silk Road Heritage chairperson. Regional experience The Philippines' National Museum Network significantly adapted during the Covid-19 pandemic, enhancing its digital engagement. Its Museums deputy director- general Jorell Legaspi noted a 400% increase in website traffic in just one year by offering virtual tours, livestreams and downloadable materials, reaching even remote areas. He said more than 20 museums across the archipelago focused on improving digital infrastructure alongside physical galleries, providing free admission and enriching visitor experiences. However, Legaspi cautioned about the complexities of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR), emphasising the need for tech developers to align their strategies with museum goals. Ultimately, he said, the transformation of cultural institutions would require collective effort from various sectors to thrive in the 21st century. Local museums are urged to learn and improve visitors' experience. Smart collaborations Offering a 'non-museum community' perspective, independent management advisor Penny Ong Lean-Ping suggested that the Department of Museums Malaysia work with Higher Education Ministry or tertiary institutions. 'Imagine final-year IT or Multimedia students lending their skills to digitalise and transform our museums, fulfilling academic requirements while addressing a national need. 'This infuses youthful energy and cutting-edge skills directly into our heritage sector,' she said. Ong also drew inspiration from international models for what she termed 'open museums.' Her visit to the Dunhuang Grottoes in China was a revelation, she shared. 'They offered three distinct experiences: live performances bringing grotto characters to life, a breathtaking VR 360-degree rotating theatre, and the actual site visit. 'Malaysia, too, is rich with open museums in historic Melaka, the charming streets of George Town in Penang, and countless old towns with stunning architecture. 'These aren't just sites; they are immersive experiences waiting to be curated, protected and presented with innovative flair.' Ong also raised concerns about the valuation of artefacts in private museums, emphasising the need to assess their cultural significance alongside monetary value. 'Statistics show 44 private museums in Malaysia, about 20% of the total nationwide. 'My worry is that artefacts, especially those unique to specific tribes, may be undervalued,' she said. Legaspi (centre) in a panel discussion with moderator and Icom Malaysia secretary Janet Tee SIew Mooi (left) and National Museum of China research fellow and curator Joan Ma Min. — Courtesy photos. Next generation of curators From TikTok reels to Instagram takeovers, youth-led digital narratives can breathe new life into Malaysia's storied past. National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said by integrating digital technologies, local museums could enhance the visitor experience, engage with diverse communities and ensure cultural narratives were preserved. 'The National Unity Ministry is committed to ensuring our museums reflect the values of inclusivity, accessibility, sustainability and diversity. 'We will work closely with the Department of Museums to develop and implement strategies that align with these principles,' he said. For example, he cited, all museums should digitise their collections and provide virtual and augmented reality experiences, interactive digital exhibits, mobile applications, and online platforms along with community engagement.
The Sun
18-05-2025
- The Sun
Thousands throng museums nationwide to celebrate International Museum Day
KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with today's International Museum Day celebration, thousands of visitors from within and outside the country did not miss the opportunity to 'travel back in time' by exploring the history and heritage found in museums nationwide. A total of 19 museums under the supervision of the Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM) were opened free of charge to the public in conjunction with the celebration. In the capital city, the National Museum began to fill with local visitors and foreign tourists as soon as it opened at 9 am to witness the collection of the nation's history and heritage on display. Assistant Curator of the National Museum Siti Jumiah Abdul Razak said that as an added attraction, volunteer tour guides fluent in various languages were provided for visitors, in addition to traditional performances and the opening of the ASEAN Gallery in conjunction with Malaysia's chairmanship this year. A tourist from New Zealand, Beli Harvey, 26, who arrived in Malaysia last Friday, said he was excited when informed that the museum was open for free in conjunction with today's International Museum Day. 'I am aware of the International Museum Day but I didn't expect the entrance was free, it was a nice surprise. Also, the diversity of this country really taught me well through my visit here,' he said. In SELANGOR, the Sultan Alam Shah Museum in Shah Alam became a focal point for parents to bring their children to spend the weekend with beneficial activities. Private sector employee Hani Hairi, 46, who came with her 14-year-old twins, said the visit gave her children the opportunity to get to know history more closely in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. 'My children are excited because it's been a long time since they visited a museum. I used to bring them when they were small, so now that we have time on the weekend, we came to see the exhibitions here,' she said. In NEGERI SEMBILAN, the Army Museum in Port Dickson became a popular destination for visitors, including Mohd Khairil Abidin, 45, who brought his five children after learning about the free admission through Facebook. In MELAKA, the free admission opportunity was utilized by visitors, including Siti Hafizah Yusop, 40, from Durian Tunggal, Alor Gajah, who came with her husband and four children to the Malaysian Architectural Museum. 'Indeed, it is very interesting, and visiting museums not only provides exposure to history and culture but also strengthens family ties through beneficial activities,' she said. In JOHOR, the Kota Johor Lama Museum in Kota Tinggi was visited by local and international visitors to observe the glorious history of the historical city that was once an important center of government after the fall of the Melaka Sultanate in 1511. A tourist from Riau, Indonesia, Rashid Tain, 65, was among the visitors who came for the first time with his family to the museum. In PAHANG, the Sungai Lembing Museum recorded the presence of 213 visitors as of 11 am, with activities such as traditional tin ore panning being a major attraction. Head of the Museum, Peterson Augustine Anak Augustine Jadan said that the inclusive and interactive approach implemented could foster the interest of young people in the heritagwe of mining that is synonymous with the area. In PERAK, the public did not miss the opportunity to visit the Perak Museum in Taiping, which also offered free admission today. In KEDAH, the Kota Kuala Kedah Museum in Alor Setar also received a large number of visitors. The museum, located at the estuary of the Kedah River, showcases the defense history of the fort built in the 18th century and displays various archaeological artifacts, ceramics, original bricks of the fort, and information about colonial attacks, especially by the Bugis, Aceh, and Siam. In PERLIS, the Kota Kayang Museum, which has offered free admission since its opening in 2001, also became a focus for visitors in conjunction with the International Museum Day celebration. Kota Kayang Museum Assistant Norhayati Wahab said that this year's celebration was quite lively, and the museum plans to organize activities with school students at the end of this month as a continuation of the celebration.
The Sun
18-05-2025
- The Sun
Thousands throng museums nationwide
KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with today's International Museum Day celebration, thousands of visitors from within and outside the country did not miss the opportunity to 'travel back in time' by exploring the history and heritage found in museums nationwide. A total of 19 museums under the supervision of the Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM) were opened free of charge to the public in conjunction with the celebration. In the capital city, the National Museum began to fill with local visitors and foreign tourists as soon as it opened at 9 am to witness the collection of the nation's history and heritage on display. Assistant Curator of the National Museum Siti Jumiah Abdul Razak said that as an added attraction, volunteer tour guides fluent in various languages were provided for visitors, in addition to traditional performances and the opening of the ASEAN Gallery in conjunction with Malaysia's chairmanship this year. A tourist from New Zealand, Beli Harvey, 26, who arrived in Malaysia last Friday, said he was excited when informed that the museum was open for free in conjunction with today's International Museum Day. 'I am aware of the International Museum Day but I didn't expect the entrance was free, it was a nice surprise. Also, the diversity of this country really taught me well through my visit here,' he said. In SELANGOR, the Sultan Alam Shah Museum in Shah Alam became a focal point for parents to bring their children to spend the weekend with beneficial activities. Private sector employee Hani Hairi, 46, who came with her 14-year-old twins, said the visit gave her children the opportunity to get to know history more closely in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. 'My children are excited because it's been a long time since they visited a museum. I used to bring them when they were small, so now that we have time on the weekend, we came to see the exhibitions here,' she said. In NEGERI SEMBILAN, the Army Museum in Port Dickson became a popular destination for visitors, including Mohd Khairil Abidin, 45, who brought his five children after learning about the free admission through Facebook. In MELAKA, the free admission opportunity was utilized by visitors, including Siti Hafizah Yusop, 40, from Durian Tunggal, Alor Gajah, who came with her husband and four children to the Malaysian Architectural Museum. 'Indeed, it is very interesting, and visiting museums not only provides exposure to history and culture but also strengthens family ties through beneficial activities,' she said. In JOHOR, the Kota Johor Lama Museum in Kota Tinggi was visited by local and international visitors to observe the glorious history of the historical city that was once an important center of government after the fall of the Melaka Sultanate in 1511. A tourist from Riau, Indonesia, Rashid Tain, 65, was among the visitors who came for the first time with his family to the museum. In PAHANG, the Sungai Lembing Museum recorded the presence of 213 visitors as of 11 am, with activities such as traditional tin ore panning being a major attraction. Head of the Museum, Peterson Augustine Anak Augustine Jadan said that the inclusive and interactive approach implemented could foster the interest of young people in the heritagwe of mining that is synonymous with the area. In PERAK, the public did not miss the opportunity to visit the Perak Museum in Taiping, which also offered free admission today. In KEDAH, the Kota Kuala Kedah Museum in Alor Setar also received a large number of visitors. The museum, located at the estuary of the Kedah River, showcases the defense history of the fort built in the 18th century and displays various archaeological artifacts, ceramics, original bricks of the fort, and information about colonial attacks, especially by the Bugis, Aceh, and Siam. In PERLIS, the Kota Kayang Museum, which has offered free admission since its opening in 2001, also became a focus for visitors in conjunction with the International Museum Day celebration. Kota Kayang Museum Assistant Norhayati Wahab said that this year's celebration was quite lively, and the museum plans to organize activities with school students at the end of this month as a continuation of the celebration.
Malay Mail
18-05-2025
- Malay Mail
Forts, fossils and free entry: Why Malaysia's museums were the place to be this weekend
KUALA LUMPUR, May 18 — In conjunction with today's International Museum Day celebration, thousands of visitors from within and outside the country did not miss the opportunity to 'travel back in time' by exploring the history and heritage found in museums nationwide. A total of 19 museums under the supervision of the Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM) were opened free of charge to the public in conjunction with the celebration. In the capital city, the National Museum began to fill with local visitors and foreign tourists as soon as it opened at 9 am to witness the collection of the nation's history and heritage on display. Assistant Curator of the National Museum Siti Jumiah Abdul Razak said that as an added attraction, volunteer tour guides fluent in various languages were provided for visitors, in addition to traditional performances and the opening of the Asean Gallery in conjunction with Malaysia's chairmanship this year. Visitors arrive at the National Museum in Kuala Lumpur May 18, 2025, in conjunction with International Museum Day 2025. — Bernama pic A tourist from New Zealand, Beli Harvey, 26, who arrived in Malaysia last Friday, said he was excited when informed that the museum was open for free in conjunction with today's International Museum Day. 'I am aware of the International Museum Day but I didn't expect the entrance was free, it was a nice surprise. Also, the diversity of this country really taught me well through my visit here,' he said. In SELANGOR, the Sultan Alam Shah Museum in Shah Alam became a focal point for parents to bring their children to spend the weekend with beneficial activities. Private sector employee Hani Hairi, 46, who came with her 14-year-old twins, said the visit gave her children the opportunity to get to know history more closely in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. 'My children are excited because it's been a long time since they visited a museum. I used to bring them when they were small, so now that we have time on the weekend, we came to see the exhibitions here,' she said. Visitors peruse the exhibits at the National Museum in Kuala Lumpur May 18, 2025, in conjunction with International Museum Day 2025. — Bernama pic In NEGERI SEMBILAN, the Army Museum in Port Dickson became a popular destination for visitors, including Mohd Khairil Abidin, 45, who brought his five children after learning about the free admission through Facebook. In MELAKA, the free admission opportunity was utilized by visitors, including Siti Hafizah Yusop, 40, from Durian Tunggal, Alor Gajah, who came with her husband and four children to the Malaysian Architectural Museum. 'Indeed, it is very interesting, and visiting museums not only provides exposure to history and culture but also strengthens family ties through beneficial activities,' she said. In JOHOR, the Kota Johor Lama Museum in Kota Tinggi was visited by local and international visitors to observe the glorious history of the historical city that was once an important center of government after the fall of the Melaka Sultanate in 1511. A tourist from Riau, Indonesia, Rashid Tain, 65, was among the visitors who came for the first time with his family to the museum. Members of the public visit the Kota Johor Lama Museum in Kota Tinggi May 18, 2025. — Bernama pic In PAHANG, the Sungai Lembing Museum recorded the presence of 213 visitors as of 11 am, with activities such as traditional tin ore panning being a major attraction. Head of the Museum, Peterson Augustine Anak Augustine Jadan said that the inclusive and interactive approach implemented could foster the interest of young people in the heritagwe of mining that is synonymous with the area. In PERAK, the public did not miss the opportunity to visit the Perak Museum in Taiping, which also offered free admission today. In KEDAH, the Kota Kuala Kedah Museum in Alor Setar also received a large number of visitors. The museum, located at the estuary of the Kedah River, showcases the defense history of the fort built in the 18th century and displays various archaeological artifacts, ceramics, original bricks of the fort, and information about colonial attacks, especially by the Bugis, Aceh, and Siam. In PERLIS, the Kota Kayang Museum, which has offered free admission since its opening in 2001, also became a focus for visitors in conjunction with the International Museum Day celebration. Kota Kayang Museum Assistant Norhayati Wahab said that this year's celebration was quite lively, and the museum plans to organize activities with school students at the end of this month as a continuation of the celebration. — Bernama
Barnama
18-05-2025
- Barnama
Thousands Throng Museums Nationwide To Celebrate International Museum Day
KUALA LUMPUR, May 18 (Bernama) -- In conjunction with today's International Museum Day celebration, thousands of visitors from within and outside the country did not miss the opportunity to 'travel back in time' by exploring the history and heritage found in museums nationwide. A total of 19 museums under the supervision of the Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM) were opened free of charge to the public in conjunction with the celebration. In the capital city, the National Museum began to fill with local visitors and foreign tourists as soon as it opened at 9 am to witness the collection of the nation's history and heritage on display. Assistant Curator of the National Museum Siti Jumiah Abdul Razak said that as an added attraction, volunteer tour guides fluent in various languages were provided for visitors, in addition to traditional performances and the opening of the ASEAN Gallery in conjunction with Malaysia's chairmanship this year. A tourist from New Zealand, Beli Harvey, 26, who arrived in Malaysia last Friday, said he was excited when informed that the museum was open for free in conjunction with today's International Museum Day. "I am aware of the International Museum Day but I didn't expect the entrance was free, it was a nice surprise. Also, the diversity of this country really taught me well through my visit here,' he said. In SELANGOR, the Sultan Alam Shah Museum in Shah Alam became a focal point for parents to bring their children to spend the weekend with beneficial activities. Private sector employee Hani Hairi, 46, who came with her 14-year-old twins, said the visit gave her children the opportunity to get to know history more closely in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. "My children are excited because it's been a long time since they visited a museum. I used to bring them when they were small, so now that we have time on the weekend, we came to see the exhibitions here," she said.
