Kuala Lumpur: The ongoing ASEAN Spirit Exhibition at the National Museum here not only showcases the diverse cultures and traditions of ASEAN countries but also highlights Malaysia’s achievements in national unity and multiracial integration. Minister of National Unity, Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, emphasized the role of the National Museum in preserving the country’s history and heritage, thus fostering unity and a national identity.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the National Museum has become a cultural meeting point where Malaysians from various backgrounds can gather, learn, and appreciate their shared history through inclusive and interactive approaches. This was highlighted by the Minister while officiating the ASEAN Spirit Exhibition, the Karya Agung Exhibition, and the Aidilfitri open house organized by the Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM).

The ASEAN Spirit Exhibition, which commenced last Monday and will run until August 31, is held in conjunction with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship. It features 120 cultural items from various ASEAN member states. In parallel, the Karya Agung Exhibition, running from April 15 to June 30, displays traditional crafts by artisans from diverse ethnic backgrounds, including works by National Craft Icons and Craft Masters.

Aaron noted that JMM and the National Museum have planned 138 engaging programs for the year, including exhibitions, workshops, and community activities, aimed at informing the public and building intergenerational and community connections.

In addition to the exhibitions, Aaron announced that the collection “The Birth of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Archives about the Formation of ASEAN, 1967-1976)” was officially recognized under UNESCO’s Memory of the World International Register on April 17 in Paris. This collection includes the ASEAN Declaration from August 8, 1967, among other key documents.

Also recognized under the UNESCO Memory of the World International Register is “The Works of Hamzah Fansuri,” a 16th-century Malay literary masterpiece, jointly nominated by the National Library of Malaysia and the National Library of Indonesia. This recognition is particularly significant for Malaysia as the current ASEAN Chair.