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THE nation must reclaim the writing of its history from the grip of colonial perspectives and return it to the foundations of its own civilisation, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the launch of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) in Encore Melaka.
“Our history cannot be determined by colonisers or subjugated to Western narratives,” said Anwar. “We have a civilisation. We had trading relations with the East and the West — with China through Admiral Cheng Ho, the Arab world, and Western powers. These were the early forms of globalisation.”
Citing the warnings of renowned sociologist Prof Syed Hussein Alatas as early as 1961, Anwar stressed that the Malaysian historical narrative must reflect indigenous values and truths. He argued for Melaka — once a thriving hub of regional trade and culture — to serve as the foundation for the national understanding of history.
“Universities and schools must view Melaka as the root of our national story, a symbol of cultural vitality that can be promoted through tourism,” he said. “That is why I chose Melaka to host the launch of VM2026.”
The event was also attended by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, and Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
Anwar reminded the audience that Melaka is more than a tourist destination. “It is a unique historical and cultural treasure in this region — the ideal setting to host World Tourism Day in 2025.”
He emphasised the importance of preserving national heritage, despite much of it having been lost or looted during the colonial era. “Efforts to revive Melaka’s and the nation’s heritage must continue for future generations.”
Malaysia’s rich multiculturalism, he said, is a national asset that deserves global attention. “Malaysia is a multiracial, multi-religious country — Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazans, Ibans, and others. As a Malaysian, I am proud to show the world how we uphold Islam as the religion of the Federation, while embracing cultural and religious diversity.”
In a separate Facebook post, Anwar also warned against rigidly adhering to classical economic models in national policy-making. Instead, he urged for an approach rooted in compassion and social justice.
“Adam Smith and John Maynard Keynes may serve as guides, but their theories must be woven with wisdom and compassion to ensure holistic well-being for the people,” he wrote.
He linked this philosophy to the government’s efforts to restructure subsidies and control RON95 petrol prices through more targeted and efficient mechanisms.
“We must offer choice to the people — those in need must be assured of receiving subsidies, while preventing leakages in public funds,” he added.
Despite global economic uncertainty, Anwar asserted that Malaysia’s political stability and investor confidence have enabled sustainable national growth. He identified electrical and electronics (E&E), semiconductors, digital industries, and renewable energy as key future sectors — with Melaka emerging as a consistent draw for international investors.
On geopolitics, Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s firm and principled stance, particularly regarding the Palestinian crisis in Gaza. “Even if global superpowers such as the United States do not share our views, that must not silence our diplomacy. Malaysia will remain vocal.”
He acknowledged the delicate balance between moral position and national economic interests, especially given Malaysia’s reliance on global supply chains.
“If we choose the path of conflict, are we prepared to sacrifice our economic strength — such as hundreds of billions in semiconductor exports to the US or China? Who would we truly be punishing — our adversaries or our own people?”
It is this ability to balance moral clarity with national interest, he said, that defines Malaysia’s voice as a “small but principled nation” on the world stage.
Earlier, Anwar also held a Budget 2026 engagement session with tourism and manufacturing industry leaders in Banda Hilir, Melaka, where he congratulated Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh and the state’s business community for their resilience and commitment. - September 28, 2025