SHAH ALAM: Malaysia’s efforts to reclaim historical documents and artefacts currently not in the nation’s possession are being hindered by budget constraints.
However, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that initiatives are underway to retrieve these items from various sources, including countries that once colonised Malaysia, overseas museums and private collectors.
“What is needed by the National Archives currently is an allocation that reflects the value of the historical items,” Ahmad Zahid told reporters after opening the two-day History and National Unity 2024 Convention here yesterday.
He acknowledged that while the cost of reacquiring these artefacts may be significant, their return is crucial as they embody the nation’s history and serve as historical evidence.
“The budget for this procurement will be submitted by the National Unity Ministry to the Cabinet for review,” he added.
Ahmad Zahid also encouraged government-linked investment companies and government-linked companies to assist with the financial aspect.
Earlier in his speech, he emphasised that historical facts should not be distorted to incite conflict based on differing ideologies or sensitive issues surrounding race, religion and royalty.
He expressed concern over the differences that arise between researchers and politicians due to personal opinions and analyses shared on social media.
“History is facts and must not be manipulated and turned into ‘facts’.
“For instance, racial polarisation and excessive politicking, if not curbed, can adversely affect the harmony between the races in the country. That is why history must be adapted to the current times,” Ahmad Zahid said, adding that manipulation will also invalidate historical facts.
The Deputy Prime Minister proposed that historians come together under one umbrella by setting up a national historian committee or council to ensure the nation’s history is accurately recorded based on facts.
“This committee must also counter the distortion of historical facts that can create disharmony in the country,” he said.
On another matter, he said the police will investigate the Global Ikhwan Services and Business (GISB) case for criminal elements, while the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) and state religious affairs departments will look into the religious aspect.
“The third is the welfare aspect under the Welfare Department and this is important to balance out what has transpired.
“Finally, the Education Ministry and the Higher Education Ministry will have to look into the victims’ education, especially TVET, so that they will have a future that is not just tied to what they went through while in that organisation,” said Ahmad Zahid.
This follows raids on care homes run and managed by GISB last week, resulting in the rescue of 402 children aged between one and 17 who were allegedly abused and exploited by caretakers.
Ahmad Zahid also commended the proactive measures taken by Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri in handling the matter.
Also present at the event were National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and his deputy Saraswathy Kandasami.
