MELAKA: Malaysia's history must represent facts based on research and what Malaysians should know, and not be dictated by the West, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of reconstructing Malaysian history, asserting that it should not be written by colonial powers.
"Many years ago, in 1961, a notable sociologist, Professor Hussein Al-Attas, wrote a pertinent piece at the Asian Historians Conference, emphasising the need for our history to be truthful to our country and legacy, not dictated by colonial masters.
"Our history must not depict us as subjugated or as slaves. We had a civilisation and the opportunity to be a major trading partner," he said while officiating Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) in Klebang here on Saturday (Sept 27) night.
Also present were the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Melaka Tun Mohd Ali Rustam, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, and Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
The Prime Minister highlighted the role of the education sector in constructing the history of Malaysia, emphasising the importance of independent research, using Melaka's history as a reference to appreciate the nation's cultural vibrancy, including its tourism.
"Melaka is not a typical tourist destination. It is unique in the Malay archipelago with its history of the great Muslim Malay sultanate, where Muslim rule was established," he said.
"It attracted trade and investments from as far as Venice, Spain, and Portugal, becoming one of the world's great cosmopolitan and trading centres, as noted by historians," he added.
The Prime Minister assured Ab Rauf of the federal government's full support for his mission to correct historical narratives over recent years.
"Thank you, Chief Minister, for continuing this effort; you have all the support of the federal government."
Anwar praised Melaka's exceptional hosting of the VM2026 launch, describing it as a testament to the state's collective spirit and historical significance.
He noted that the country's tourism sector is not solely focused on culture and the arts but also serves as a key driver of economic growth and a symbol of national unity.
He remarked that food and beverages play a major role in attracting tourists, reflecting Malaysia's diversity.
"Tourism is linked to the economy, rejuvenation of culture and the arts, unity, and culinary activities that showcase diversity," he said. – Bernama
