Preserving Malay heritage for future generations

KUCHING: Wisma Melayu Sarawak and the proposed Muzium Tamadun Melayu Sarawak here will preserve the Malay community’s heritage through historical records, manuscripts and artefacts.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the museum would become a historical and educational reference centre, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Malay community in Sarawak and related communities.

He said the initiative reflected the importance of safeguarding cultural identity while ensuring that the younger generation remained connected to their history and heritage.

“One of the key components of this building is the Sarawak Malay Civilisation Museum, which, upon completion, will house collections of historical records, manuscripts, artefacts and cultural heritage belonging to the Malay community and related communities,” he said.

He said this at the opening ceremony of Wisma Melayu Sarawak in Petra Jaya here on Wednesday, which was officiated by Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.

Awang Tengah said Wisma Melayu Sarawak, which also houses a main hall, the Sarawak Malay Cultural Foundation Charitable Trust (AKYBMS) administrative offices, a Malay Resource Centre and a prayer room, would serve as a centre for various community, educational and cultural activities.

Its main hall can accommodate approximately 2,000 people for conferences and around 1,500 people for dinner functions.

“The uniqueness of Wisma Melayu Sarawak can be seen in its architectural design, which draws inspiration from the tengkolok or destar (traditional Malay headgear).

“The tengkolok is part of Malay traditional attire and symbolises nobility, sovereignty and dignity. This concept is also closely linked to the history of the Malay community in Sarawak and the foundation’s original logo design introduced in 1994,” he added.

He said the building should not only benefit the Malay community but also serve as a shared platform for all communities to engage in activities related to knowledge, education, history and culture.

“I also hope that the younger generation will be given opportunities to participate directly in activities organised at this building.

“The experience of previous generations must be combined with the skills and fresh perspectives of the younger generation. In this way, the heritage we preserve can continue to evolve and remain relevant in keeping with the changing times,” said Awang Tengah.