Understanding History Crucial For Unity - Perlis Raja Muda

ARAU, May 12 (Bernama) -- The Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail said a deep understanding of history is crucial in uniting Malaysia’s multi-ethnic society and preventing a repeat of past mistakes.

Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra said history forms the foundation of national identity and serves as a guide for the future, and must be appreciated responsibly with the aim of building  a harmonious and progressive nation.

His Royal Highness was speaking at the opening ceremony of the National History Convention 2026 today at Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) here.

“The theme of this convention, ‘Bersama Membina Negara Bangsa’ (Building a Nation Together), calls on us to see history not just as heritage, but as a tool for shaping the future.

“A nation is not built in a day, but through continuous efforts grounded in education, mutual understanding and a willingness to respect differences,” said the Raja Muda.

Raja Puan Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Dr Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil, was in attendance. National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang was also present.

Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra also said that civilisation is the foundation of a strong nation, and that the survival of any civilisation depends on the strength of a sovereign nation-state.

“If civilisation is its soul, then the nation is its body, and both must remain united to ensure the country’s continued success and future prosperity,” said His Royal Highness.

Meanwhile, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra said today’s younger generation has a significant opportunity to become more informed and develop critical thinking skills in the digital age.

In this regard, His Royal Highness said educators and scholars should remain proactive in refreshing teaching methods to make them more engaging, accurate and relevant, while also helping to connect with students and strengthen understanding among the younger generation.

“Here, I would also like to reiterate the hope that plans to establish the National Archives of Malaysia and a state archive in Perlis, as well as the Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail Gallery or Museum, can be realised in the near future.

“This is to strengthen the preservation of Perlis’ historical treasures, heritage and identity so that they remain protected and can serve as a valuable reference for future generations,” said Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra.

In a statement issued in conjunction with the opening ceremony, the Ministry of National Unity said the two-day convention serves as a key platform for historians and practitioners to share findings, views and academic discourse that enrich the nation’s historical narrative.

It said four presentation sessions will be held involving 14 presenters, focusing on royal institutions, continuity and change, the nationalist movement, administration and law, as well as MADANI development and community wellbeing.

-- BERNAMA