Kuala Terengganu: The state government has proposed to offer special incentives to parties interested in preserving Terengganu’s art and historical heritage.

State education, science, technology and transformation committee chairman A. Latiff Awang said there was concern that history and legacy of the state can be easily lost or forgotten given the rapid development taking place in the world.

“It will be a loss, especially to future generations, because they will not recognise the origin and identity of their own heritage,” he said after launching “Seminar Kearifan Tempatan” at Terengganu Museum Complex here.

The two-day seminar was attended by about 150 participants comprising civil servants as well as teaching staff of higher learning institutions and private institutions.

Elaborating further, Latiff said Terengganu’s history dated earlier than that of Melaka.

For example, in terms of international trade, Chinese traders began trading here before they did in Melaka but it was not recorded.

“The remains of other heritage such as old buildings,which have their own uniqueness and symbolise the identity of the people of the state, should be maintained or rebuilt if damaged.

“The incentive is a bit of help for those interested in preserving heritage.

“For example, for those with expertise to build traditional Terengganu houses, we will reduce the assessment rate,” he said.

Latiff said the museum would act as a coordinator to ensure the preservation and conservation of heritage is done properly and according to the museum’s specifications.

The incentive measures, he added, would also provide opportunities for the community to share the responsibility of preserving the heritage, art and history of the state without expecting the museum to take sole responsibility. — Bernama