Kuala Lumpur: The International Archives Week 2025 celebration is not only a tribute to the service and dedication of archivists, but also a call for the public to connect with the nation’s historical treasures that underpin national identity and unity. Minister of National Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said this year’s theme “Arkib Boleh Diakses, Arkib Untuk Semua” (Accessible Archives, Archives for All), aligns with the aspirations of the MADANI government in ensuring that the nation’s history and documents are accessible to all levels of society.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aaron emphasized the critical role of archives in preserving the nation’s memory. “Archives are the guardians of our nation’s memory. They do not merely store the country’s history but also unite the narratives of all communities in Malaysia – from the struggle for independence and nation-building, to today’s efforts to strengthen national integration,” he stated. Without these archives, he warned, history would be lost, identity would fade, and unity would diminish. Therefore, he stressed the importance of supporting archival institutions and valuing history as a shared national asset.
In conjunction with the celebration, Aaron announced that the ministry, through the National Archives of Malaysia (ANM), is inviting Malaysians to visit 10 Memorials of National Leaders. These memorials will be open to the public free of charge throughout the year, aiming to bring history closer to the people, particularly the younger generation. This initiative seeks to connect them with the legacy of national leadership, symbolizing past leaders’ struggles and sacrifices.
Aaron urged Malaysians to make full use of the nation’s historical treasures during International Archives Week, fostering a love for the country and strengthening unity through an appreciation of past struggles. He expressed the ministry’s full support for initiatives like Community Archives and local documentation efforts, including oral histories of the Orang Asli and the ethnic groups of Sabah and Sarawak. These efforts help broaden the nation’s historical narrative in a more inclusive and equitable manner.
He further highlighted that ANM is an active Institutional Member (Category A) of the International Council on Archives (ICA), which allows it to participate in global discussions and share archival matters with international networks. Extending his wishes for a meaningful International Archives Week 2025, Aaron acknowledged the contributions of archivists, researchers, civil servants, and Malaysians who appreciate the nation’s documentary heritage.