SIBU: The nation’s history, particularly the sacrifices and contributions of past heroes, must be more comprehensively documented to guide future generations, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
The Deputy Prime Minister raised concerns that large portions of Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia’s past remain unrecorded.
He emphasised the need for experienced people and organisations to document not only historical struggles but also the cultural heritage of various communities.
“We must gather and document our past, not only the struggles but also the cultural history of communities such as the Tiong Hua, the people of Bersagang, the Orang Asli and others,” he said.
Fadillah was speaking at the launch of a book on past heroes, titled Secebis Kisah Perjuangan Bangsa: Ikhlasnya Pengorbanan Indahnya Kemerdekaan (A Piece of the Nation’s Struggle: The Sincerity of Sacrifice, the Beauty of Independence), here yesterday.
The book, which records past events related to the history and figures of independence fighters in Sarawak, is published by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka Sarawak.
It was written by the late Hamdan Marais, a Sibu-based activist involved in documenting and preserving local history and heritage.
Fadillah said such documentation would help the younger generation better understand the importance of unity in a diverse society.
“By understanding history, we can learn how to build a community that is united despite differences in ethnicity, culture and faith. This unity is crucial for us to work together and bring development,” he said.
He also encouraged cultural and language associations, as well as graduate groups in Sibu, to collaborate with universities in conducting research and producing meaningful records.
Fadillah emphasised that learning from history is essential to avoid repeating past mistakes.
“If we do not learn from history, we risk repeating it. The lessons of the past are important to ensure we can move forward and build a stronger future,” he said.
He noted that the struggles of past heroes were not easy, as many endured hardship, persecution and even sacrificed their lives and wealth for independence.
“These sacrifices must be remembered, especially by the younger generation, as they teach us the values of sincerity, resilience and commitment,” he said.
Fadillah described the publication of the book as an important effort in preserving such a legacy, while acknowledging that producing it was not an easy task.
He also expressed appreciation to all contributors involved in the project and hoped more similar initiatives would be carried out in the future.
At the function, Fadillah pledged to sponsor 5,000 copies of the book for distribution to schools so students can learn about the history of past freedom fighters.
