Connecting students with history, heritage crucial for building a better future
I DO not know why, but many people seem to dislike or are not interested in history.
It does not help that for many of us, history classes are often associated with memorising dates, events and names – matters unrelated to our current lives.
This, coupled with history being taught without enthusiasm or creativity, leads to a dulling of the senses.
Without context, the emotional resonance or relevance of events is lost, and the study of history becomes no more than a series of isolated events, with no connection to the stories of real people, their struggles, triumphs and failures.
Learning from the past
But history is more than just an account of the past. It should be carefully researched, based on evidence, facts and analysis.
In plotting the course of history, it is important to use information gathered from various sources of written documentation, artefacts and oral histories to construct narratives of events, identify patterns and, most importantly, learn from past mistakes.
It also helps us understand the influences that have shaped societies, cultures and civilisations.
Heritage as a bridge
On the other hand, heritage or cultural inheritance has a nuance where events, traditions and ethnic practices are preserved, valued and passed down through generations, bringing history to life.
It connects us directly to the past, but not in the abstract way that dates and events in a textbook do.
Rather, heritage is the ongoing influence of historical events on the customs, traditions and values still practised today.
For example, the Gawai festival celebrated by the Dayak community is a piece of living history, embodying agricultural practices, spiritual beliefs and communal bonds.
Heritage acts as a bridge between the past and present, celebrating history in real time.
While both history and heritage deal with the legacy of human experience, heritage humanises history, allowing us to see past events through the lens of real people, their lives and experiences.
Social cohesion
Heritage and history can help bridge differences between communities by fostering a deeper understanding of one another’s backgrounds, struggles and shared experiences.
Learning and understanding the diverse histories of the different cultures can help break down stereotypes and misconceptions in a country like Malaysia. It goes a long way in building empathy, respect and tolerance in our multicultural society.
National histories or collective memories, such as commemorating important historical events like our Merdeka Day celebration, the struggles and achievements of our forefathers, and how they navigated challenges in the push for independence and during the tough times of the Second World War, form a shared narrative that helps strengthen national identity and social solidarity.
Dynamic living force
As societies become more diverse and interconnected, it is important for us to preserve and celebrate our heritage.
From multicultural festivals to the repatriation of cultural artefacts, there is an increasing focus on recognising the importance of history and heritage in fostering unity and understanding.
In schools, museums and cultural centres, people are learning to see history not just as a static record, but as a dynamic, living force that influences our daily lives.
Earlier this month, together with the Hungarian Embassy, we celebrated the legacy of János Xántus, one of Hungary’s most remarkable naturalists and ethnographers, who in 1870 travelled to Sarawak and devoted himself to collecting and documenting natural history and cultural artefacts.
His work advanced scientific understanding and created a lasting legacy. Scholars like Xántus provide us access to generations of knowledge, a foundation upon which we can build more informed, resilient societies.
At higher education institutions, we often focus on building a better future. What better way than by connecting with the traditions and heritage that ground us and building on the legacy and achievements of those who came before us?
Therefore, let us encourage our students to be curious, while creating an environment that inspires greater insight, creativity and purpose.
History is key to understanding one’s identity and the shared experiences that unite communities. For students, it helps them understand their place in the world, and for educators, it creates a common ground for teaching and learning.
Prof Datuk Dr Elizabeth Lee is the chief executive officer at Sunway Education Group. A veteran in the field of private higher education, Prof Lee is also an advocate for women in leadership. She has been recognised both locally and internationally for her contributions to the field of education. The views expressed here are the writer’s own.
