The Sarawak Museum Department has received 11 significant donations in the first quarter of this year, including heirloom jars passed down through six generations and an old copy of the Mushaf al-Maliki Qur’an purchased in Kabong in 1942.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the contributions reflected growing public commitment towards preserving Sarawak’s shared heritage.
“The six jars were donated by Maney Nyiggang from Lepong Empeliau, Sri Aman. These jars have been in the family’s possession for six generations.
“The old copy of the Mushaf al-Maliki Qur’an was contributed by Abang Abdul Karim Abang Yak. A handwritten inscription within its pages revealed it was purchased in Kabong on Feb 9, 1942,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech at the august House today (May 19).
Abdul Karim added that the Museum Department also received a Sawfish Rostrum from Kuching resident Chyr Ye Hong.
Originating from Tatau, Bintulu, he said the specimen is estimated to be over 50 years old and provides insight into Sarawak’s biodiversity.
Apart from artefacts, the Museum Department also received historical documents from Ko Tee Hock @ Joseph Ko, including a 1937 passport and identity certificates dated 1939 and 1940.
Meanwhile, Abdul Karim said the Museum Department currently operates 20 museums and galleries across Sarawak, which recorded more than 130,000 visitors to date, a 5.95 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
He added that the Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM) alone welcomed almost 70,000 visitors between January and April this year, bringing its cumulative total to more than 1.6 million visitors since opening in March 2022.
“The BCM often attracts high-profile dignitaries, international delegates and royal guests. Between January and April this year, the BCM hosted visits by the ambassadors of France, Hungary and Germany.
“The BCM also continues to bring in blockbuster exhibitions such as Helios by Luke Jerram, an artwork presentation of the Sun, from Nov 17, 2025 to July 17, 2026.
“To date, the exhibition has attracted almost 119,000 visitors,” he said.
