Fort restoration shows need to learn from history, says Anwar
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that historical sites like the newly restored Fort Cornwallis should serve as educational tools rather than just tourist attractions. He argued that history should be taught from the perspective of the local people's sacrifices to foster national unity and understanding.
Why it matters
It reflects a shift in how post-colonial nations curate their historical narratives to promote national identity and critical thinking among the youth.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim inspecting an exhibit at the newly-restored Fort Cornwallis in George Town today. (PMO pic)
GEORGE TOWN: Historical sites should not merely be tourist attractions but must function as educational spaces to help the younger generation understand the value of unity, the price of independence and the suffering of the people when the country was colonised, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said today.
Speaking at the opening of Fort Cornwallis after the completion of restoration works, Anwar said the conservation of the fort, which dates back to the arrival of the British in 1786, was not aimed at glorifying colonialism, but rather at providing the community with an opportunity to explore the country's bitter history and learn from it.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in