Latest news with #MuseumsDepartment
The Sun
22-05-2025
- The Sun
Museums in Malaysia record increase in visitors
PETALING JAYA : Museums in Malaysia have seen a steady surge in visitors, with 2,188,286 people recorded across the 22 federal museums in 2023, a significant increase from 1,464,463 visitors in 2022. The upward trend has continued into 2024, with 2,568,573 visitors. As of April 30 this year, the museums have welcomed 579,433 visitors, signalling a strong year ahead. These figures were provided by the Museums Department, highlighting a growing public interest in cultural and historical institutions, particularly the National Museum in Kuala Lumpur, which remains the most visited among locals and tourists. According to the department, one of the main draws of the National Museum is its role as a 'one-stop centre' offering a wide array of exhibitions that showcase Malaysia's rich cultural and historical heritage. 'Its strategic location, convenient access via public transport and alignment with the national school curriculum make it a popular choice for educators and students. 'Its strong brand recognition further cements its status as a premier cultural attraction.' The department attributed the rise in attendance to several key factors, including the National Unity Policy, which promotes patriotism and national identity through structured programmes. 'There are three main clusters that the museums aligned their programmes with under the National Unity Policy, namely igniting patriotism, fostering unity and komuniti rahmah (compassionate community), which serve as thematic guides for our museum initiatives.' A significant part of the appeal lies in the interactive, hands-on experiences offered by the museums. Many exhibits even feature tangible cultural artefacts. 'This physical connection to history has become a major draw, particularly through programmes such as Inspirasi Pelajar Inovasi Muzium, which offers students and educators the opportunity to engage directly with historical artefacts. 'These hands-on learning experiences complement formal education and serve as effective teaching aids to deepen understanding of Malaysia's rich history.' To broaden their appeal, museums have embraced a family-friendly 'edutainment' model, blending educational content with interactive experiences tailored for children and adults. 'They address contemporary issues, such as technology and the environment, appealing to younger audiences. Innovative exhibitions featuring cutting-edge digital technology help bridge the gap between traditional history and the modern digital age, making learning relevant and exciting.' To further support outreach, the department has partnered with several organisations, including Mr DIY, Fama, Chagee, Casa Chemical, Yayasan Al-Amin and Antong Coffee. 'These partnerships strengthen outreach efforts, and help enhance the quality and diversity of programmes offered.' As part of National Museum Day celebrations, 19 out of 22 federal museums opened their doors to the public free of charge on May 18. Speaking at the International Museums Day Seminar, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang reaffirmed the government's dedication to making museums more inclusive, sustainable and diverse. 'During an age in which technology permeates every facet of our lives, it is imperative that our cultural institutions evolve to meet the expectations and needs of the modern world. Digital transformation offers us the opportunity to preserve our rich heritage while making it accessible to a global audience. 'By integrating digital technologies, we could enhance the visitor experience, engage diverse communities and ensure our cultural narratives are preserved for future generations.' He urged museums to adopt innovations such as virtual and augmented reality, interactive digital exhibits, apps and online platforms while deepening community engagement and inclusivity. He added that the ministry is finalising the Museum Act, which would regulate museum activities nationwide. The Bill is expected to be tabled in parliament before the end of the year.
The Sun
22-05-2025
- The Sun
Museums record increase in visitors
PETALING JAYA: Museums in Malaysia have seen a steady surge in visitors, with 2,188,286 people recorded across the 22 federal museums in 2023, a significant increase from 1,464,463 visitors in 2022. The upward trend has continued into 2024, with 2,568,573 visitors. As of April 30 this year, the museums have welcomed 579,433 visitors, signalling a strong year ahead. These figures were provided by the Museums Department, highlighting a growing public interest in cultural and historical institutions, particularly the National Museum in Kuala Lumpur, which remains the most visited among locals and tourists. According to the department, one of the main draws of the National Museum is its role as a 'one-stop centre' offering a wide array of exhibitions that showcase Malaysia's rich cultural and historical heritage. 'Its strategic location, convenient access via public transport and alignment with the national school curriculum make it a popular choice for educators and students. 'Its strong brand recognition further cements its status as a premier cultural attraction.' The department attributed the rise in attendance to several key factors, including the National Unity Policy, which promotes patriotism and national identity through structured programmes. 'There are three main clusters that the museums aligned their programmes with under the National Unity Policy, namely igniting patriotism, fostering unity and komuniti rahmah (compassionate community), which serve as thematic guides for our museum initiatives.' A significant part of the appeal lies in the interactive, hands-on experiences offered by the museums. Many exhibits even feature tangible cultural artefacts. 'This physical connection to history has become a major draw, particularly through programmes such as Inspirasi Pelajar Inovasi Muzium, which offers students and educators the opportunity to engage directly with historical artefacts. 'These hands-on learning experiences complement formal education and serve as effective teaching aids to deepen understanding of Malaysia's rich history.' To broaden their appeal, museums have embraced a family-friendly 'edutainment' model, blending educational content with interactive experiences tailored for children and adults. 'They address contemporary issues, such as technology and the environment, appealing to younger audiences. Innovative exhibitions featuring cutting-edge digital technology help bridge the gap between traditional history and the modern digital age, making learning relevant and exciting.' To further support outreach, the department has partnered with several organisations, including Mr DIY, Fama, Chagee, Casa Chemical, Yayasan Al-Amin and Antong Coffee. 'These partnerships strengthen outreach efforts, and help enhance the quality and diversity of programmes offered.' As part of National Museum Day celebrations, 19 out of 22 federal museums opened their doors to the public free of charge on May 18. Speaking at the International Museums Day Seminar, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang reaffirmed the government's dedication to making museums more inclusive, sustainable and diverse. 'During an age in which technology permeates every facet of our lives, it is imperative that our cultural institutions evolve to meet the expectations and needs of the modern world. Digital transformation offers us the opportunity to preserve our rich heritage while making it accessible to a global audience. 'By integrating digital technologies, we could enhance the visitor experience, engage diverse communities and ensure our cultural narratives are preserved for future generations.' He urged museums to adopt innovations such as virtual and augmented reality, interactive digital exhibits, apps and online platforms while deepening community engagement and inclusivity. He added that the ministry is finalising the Museum Act, which would regulate museum activities nationwide. The Bill is expected to be tabled in parliament before the end of the year.
The Star
19-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Ministry finalising law to regulate museum activities
KUALA LUMPUR: The National Unity Ministry is in the final stages of drafting a law to regulate museum activities nationwide and it is expected to be tabled by November, says Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang (pic). The law aims to create a clear legal framework for effective and sustainable museum management. Aaron said the ministry envisions museums as transformative spaces that foster creativity, critical thinking and an appreciation for shared humanity, embodying inclusivity, accessibility, sustainability and diversity. 'We will work closely with the Museums Department to develop and implement strategies that align with these principles, enhancing accessibility, promoting inclusive narratives, implementing sustainable practices, and encouraging community participation in museum activities and decision-making processes,' he told Bernama during his opening speech at the Malaysia International Museum Day Seminar 2025 here yesterday. Meanwhile, at a press conference, Museums Department director-general Datuk Kamarul Baharin A. Kasim said the proposed law includes the establishment of a Museum Council, which would serve as an advisory and supervisory body for the creation and operation of museum institutions nationwide. He said that while the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645) addresses matters concerning heritage sites, monuments, and both tangible and intangible heritage, it does not comprehensively regulate overall museum policy. 'This law is being drafted in accordance with international standards and aims to introduce a rating system and regulate new, particularly private, museums that might present narratives conflicting with national policy.' The International Museum Day Seminar 2025, themed 'The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,' was held in conjunction with International Museum Day. The event drew around 300 participants.
The Star
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Taking a peek into the past
KUALA LUMPUR: Usually a quiet place space for reflection, Muzium Negara was bustling with a diverse crowd drawn by free admission for International Museum Day. Visitors yesterday, including schoolchildren, tourists, and history buffs, explored its extensive collection – some seeking knowledge, others nostalgia and a few simply curious to view artefacts. 'I've never been here before,' said Cynthia, accompanied by her husband Thomas and their son. 'Something about the museum being open to all, no entry fee, just felt welcoming.' Surprisingly, it wasn't ancient weapons or royal regalia that captivated her, but a centuries-old metal handbag labelled 'Dompet Bertali' or Pillow Purse. A visitor at Muzium Kota Johor Lama reading up on its history and the museum's role as a significant centre ofMalay rule after the fall of the Melaka Sultanate in 1511. Its delicate plant engravings and long strap gave it a strikingly modern look. 'It's the kind of handbag I'd actually wear. It's vintage and elegant,' she exclaimed, wishing for replicas in the gift shop. Muzium Negara, like many museums across the country, opened its doors for free yesterday, part of a wider national initiative involving 19 museums under the Museums Department. The goal was to get people to reconnect with history, and perhaps see their past in a new light. Zaliza Mustapha, a local visitor in her 20s, was particularly drawn to a wooden statue of a man – long-haired, round-bellied, barefoot and unbothered. 'Ah, that's the sign of prosperity back then, huh? That's the man women!' her laughter echoed through the gallery, drawing amused glances from other visitors nearby. 'It's things like this that make you realise how far and how little we've changed. Beauty standards, power symbols ... they evolve, but they always reflect the times.' Nearby, tiny animal figurines made of silver – one resembling a rooster mid-strut, the other an insect with curved legs and a stout body – caught people's attention and surprised them, as these were once used as currency in Selangor. Shafinaz Syed Malik, 33, taking a wefie with herfamily at Muzium Perak. — Bernama 'I always assumed old currency was just boring coins,' said Muhammad Afif, a mechanical engineer who visited with his family. 'It's like people back then didn't separate function from beauty. Even their money had personality. Imagine that rooster sitting in someone's pocket on the way to the market,' he chuckled. While the artefacts delighted many, others were drawn to the museum's more recent history. The original 1976 Asean Concord – signed in Denpasar, Bali, by leaders including Malaysia's Tun Hussein Onn, Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew and the Philippines' Ferdinand Marcos – is displayed alongside a translated declaration affirming the bloc's commitment to peace, law and regional cooperation. 'It's powerful. To see the actual signatures of these leaders ... it reminds you that unity doesn't just happen. Someone has to decide it's worth the effort,' said another visitor, Karim Abdul Rahman, a retired teacher. Throughout the museum, families took photos, children asked questions and older visitors reminisced. 'In a digital world, there's something grounding about walking through history physically – seeing the weight of time not as pixels, but as metal, wood, cloth and ink,' Karim added. In another corner, a group of foreign tourists huddled around a striking display of two large, boat-shaped congkak boards, carved into the form of birds. 'We saw a post about International Museum Day on social media,' said Peter, a visitor from the Netherlands. 'We waited specifically to come today. It's such a lovely way to spend the afternoon.' The vibrant, bird-shaped congkak boards particularly captivated younger visitors, prompting explanations of the traditional Malay game. By midday, the museum was abuzz with visitors, as hundreds queued to experience the stories, artefacts and quiet grandeur within its halls. Museum staff moved between groups, offering explanations about the exhibits, while translators were on hand to for foreigners. Muzium Negara also organised a range of activities for visitors throughout the day. These included traditional games, STEM activities, DIY workshops and cultural performances like the Magunatip bamboo dance, all of which added a vibrant touch to the celebration.
