JASIN: Preserving the authentic history of Melaka is crucial in strengthening public confidence and countering distorted narratives shaped by colonial powers, said Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
The Melaka Chief Minister said this was why the state government had allocated significant funding for research and archaeological efforts to uncover and document historical truths.
"We were colonised for 446 years and repeated reinterpretations of history designed to fit certain agendas can erode the confidence of the current generation,” he said when addressing former policemen at a Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering at a community hall in Selandar here on Wednesday (April 8).
Also present was Asahan assemblyman Datuk Fairul Nizam Roslan, who is also Melaka’s science, technology, innovation and digital communications committee chairman.
Ab Rauf said he found that many locals remained unaware of their own history and were easily influenced by colonial-era narratives when asked about historical facts during engagements.
He said the state government’s efforts to trace the history of the Malay archipelago had revealed a civilisation that was far more expansive, complex and culturally rich.
"Much of this is linked to the Melaka Sultanate, and we have managed to trace historical evidence from museums in Portugal, the Netherlands and Spain,” he said.
Ab Rauf said Panglima Awang, also associated with Enrique de Malacca, was believed to be among the earliest individuals from this region linked to the circumnavigation of the globe in the 16th century.
He said this understanding was reinforced following his working visit to the Netherlands last year, where a series of historical records, letters and documents of significance to both the state and the nation were examined.
"His name is recorded as a key crew member and interpreter in Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition in the 1500s,” he said.
Ab Rauf added that the legendary Malay warrior Hang Tuah had also projected the stature of the Malay world onto a wider stage, and that the people should take pride in the legacy of their ancestors.
