KUALA LUMPUR: The proposed policy framework for the drafting of the Malaysia Museums Bill has received in-principle approval from the Cabinet, marking a major step towards strengthening the country’s museum ecosystem, says Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
The National Unity Minister said the proposal was tabled and agreed upon during the Cabinet meeting on April 29.
He described the drafting of the Bill as a significant milestone, as it would become the first federal law specifically formulated to regulate the establishment, registration and management of museum-related activities in the country.
“The drafting of the Bill is an important step in strengthening the nation’s museum ecosystem because it will become the first Federal legislation specifically enacted to regulate the establishment, registration and management of museum activities in this country,” he said.
Aaron said this in his speech when launching the Central Zone Unity Week 2026 celebration and the Youth Overnight at the Museum programme on Saturday (May 16).
He said the proposed law would apply in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan.
Among others, it would cover the establishment of the Malaysian Museums Council (MMM), governance involving Federal and private museums, as well as the creation of a Museum Register and Collection Register.
Aaron said the Madani government remained committed to rejuvenating museum institutions to ensure they stayed relevant, dynamic and closely connected to society.
In line with that commitment, Aaron said the Museum Matching Grant, introduced under Budget 2026, was aimed at empowering the development and transformation of the country’s museum sector.
He said the grant would prioritise people-centric projects and programmes that directly benefit the public, covering four main scopes - permanent infrastructure development, museum digitalisation, educational spaces and museum-related programmes.
“The Madani government remains committed in its efforts to rejuvenate museum institutions so that they continue to be relevant, dynamic and close to the community,” he said.
Aaron also expressed hope that National Unity Week would continue to serve as an important platform to foster togetherness, strengthen mutual understanding and nurture respect among Malaysians.
“I hope the National Unity Week celebration will continue to be the best platform to cultivate the spirit of togetherness, strengthen understanding and foster mutual respect among Malaysians,” he said.
