Malaysia must rebuild its historical narrative based on its own facts and heritage, not through the lens of Western colonial powers,

MELAKA: Malaysia must rebuild its historical narrative based on its own facts and heritage, not through the lens of Western colonial powers, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He emphasized that the writing of the nation’s history must return to the true foundations of civilization and the distinction of the Malay world, which has long engaged with the outside world.

“I still recall, as early as 1961, the nation’s renowned sociologist, Prof Syed Hussein Al-Atas, during the Conference of Asian Historians, reminded us that our history must not be defined by colonial rulers or subjected to Western narratives.

“We have our own civilization. We had trade relations with both the East and the West, including China through Admiral Cheng Ho, the Arab world, and Western powers.

“All these were early forms of globalization,” he said when launching Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) at Encore Melaka last night.

Also present were the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Dr Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam; Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh; and Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

Anwar said Melaka had proven its openness to the world for centuries, serving as a vital center of trade and civilization in the region.

Therefore, he stressed, rewriting Malaysia’s history is crucial, and educational institutions must position Melaka as the cornerstone for understanding the nation’s past.

“Universities and schools must see Melaka as the foundation of our history, a symbol of cultural vitality that can be highlighted through tourism.

“That is why I agreed for Melaka to host the launch of VM2026,” he said.

The Prime Minister also expressed his appreciation to Ab Rauf, the Melaka government, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), ministers, and international guests who supported the prestigious event.

He said Melaka is not merely an ordinary tourist destination but offers unmatched historical and cultural uniqueness in the region, making it the right location to celebrate World Tourism Day (WTD) 2025.

At the same time, he reminded the importance of preserving national heritage, even though many artifacts and historical documents had been destroyed or taken away by colonial powers.

He stressed that efforts to revive Melaka’s and Malaysia’s heritage must continue for the sake of future generations.

Anwar also reaffirmed that Malaysia’s diversity is a great asset that should be showcased to the world.

“Malaysia is a multiracial and multi-religious nation, with Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazans, Ibans, and others.

“As a Malaysian, I am proud to show that this country is unique. While Islam is the religion of the Federation, we continue to celebrate the richness of other cultures and religions,” he said.