Historical markers still relevant to preserve nation's heritage

By Mohd Faizal Hassan

IPOH, Aug 25 (Bernama) -- The rapid physical development and the advancement of information technology shouldn’t be the reason not to preserve and promote informative signboards or markers associated with historical places and events. 

Not only they are still relevant, but those signboards and markers that contain information, old pictures and maps that take the readers back to the historical events and places, are also important to foster interest and awareness of the country’s history among the new generation.

Malayan Historical Group (MHG) chairman Shaharom Ahmad said with the advancement of technology, the presence of the markers has become more important as they not only show the location of historical sites but also provide everlasting promotion and give a competitive edge to the areas, especially in luring more visitors and tourists.

“When we talk about history, we will immediately think of information about events and battles that we read from our school textbooks or encyclopedias.

“The change of times and the advancement of technology have, of course, allowed information about historical events and places to be at one’s fingertips, but it shouldn’t stop us from preserving or even erecting more historical markers across the country,” he told Bernama.

Shaharom said 10 historical markers have been erected across the country so far and that MHG was planning to erect more according to their budget and public donations.

Among the historical markers already erected were the Kuala Dipang Bridge, Victoria Bridge construction site, the 'Battle of Kampar' at Green Ridge and the 'Battle of Slim' site, all in Perak; and the site of the Japanese Army’s first landing in Malaya at the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Kelantan.

On the challenges faced by MHG, Shaharom said it was more on enhancing public awareness in identifying and conserving historical sites as well as protecting the markers from being stolen and sold as scrap metal.

“Education and exposure are key to creating awareness among the society. This was one of the reasons why MHG was formed. We want the new generation to know and love the history of our country.

“That's why we've done a lot of activities to get closer to the public in the form of exhibitions and exposure on social media in addition to holding a series of tours, talks or gotong-royong just to get these young people to participate in every project and campaign.

“We are also now using TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to win the hearts of the younger generation,” he said.

Shaharom said the MHG also planned to hold more exhibitions, especially in schools during National Month.

This will include conservation programmes at abandoned historical sites, he said.

He said what the association was doing does not mean that they support colonialism, but was more of an effort to give the exposure to the community to appreciate the independence enjoyed today and to nurture the spirit of love for the country.

-- BERNAMA