KUCHING: The younger generation should take part in the museum world as they are the heirs to preserve and carry forward the nation’s heritage, said National Unity Minister, Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
He said museums serve as a bridge between generations, a place for cultural understanding, and a platform for national unity.
Therefore, museums must be youth-friendly to remain relevant and close to society.
“Making museums youth-friendly is the key to the continuity of history, the strengthening of unity, and the sustainability of Malaysia’s identity,” he said.
He said this in his speech at the closing of the ‘Night in the Museum 2025’ programme at Borneo Cultures Museum here today.
The event was officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Aaron said the ‘Night in the Museum’ programme is one of the main initiatives under the ‘Citra Nusa@Muzium Program’ , fully supported by the Ministry of National Unity, and is rooted in historical heritage and cultural arts.
Since its introduction in 2016, he said, the programme has received encouraging response, especially from students, and has been recognised four times by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR), including participation of 3,209 participants in 2019 who wore the tengkolok (traditional Malay headgear) during the event.
“This programme is not only an educational platform but also a medium for strengthening identity and patriotism among Malaysians,” he said.
This year, the programme highlighted the theme ‘Young Curators’ to introduce the role of curators as guardians of artifacts, educators, researchers and connectors between past and present generations.
Aaron explained that there are more than 232 museums nationwide, encompassing federal, state, institutional and private museums.
The main challenge is keeping museums relevant to the younger generation through digital technology, mobile applications, and interactive exhibitions.
He also described world-class museum experiences, such as the British Museum in London, the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C., and the National Museum of Singapore, as the best examples in attracting young people through digitised collections, virtual reality exhibitions, and immersive technologies.
“I congratulate and commend all museums across the country, especially the Department of Museums Malaysia, for their commitment in supporting the ministry’s efforts to preserve unity values through the museum platform,” he said.
