DUN Sarawak: Important memorial archives of historical preservation, heritage

KUCHING, 13 Oct: Amendments to Section 2 and Section 3 of the Sarawak State Library Ordinance introducing the concept of memorial archives are seen as an important step in preserving the history, cultural identity and heritage of Sarawak society for future generations.

Member of the National Assembly (ADUN) Tebedu, Dr Simon Sinang Bada said that recognition of the role of memorial archives in preserving, preserving and exhibiting historical materials is very significant for Sarawak which is rich with ethnic diversity, official customs, languages and cultural heritage.

"Sarawak is a state rich in history, ethnic diversity, official customs, languages and cultural heritage. Every society has a history of struggle, achievements, identity and values that are fairly preserved", he said.

He said this while discussing the Sarawak State Library (Amendment) Bill 2026 at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Conference, today.

According to him, state development should not be measured on the basis of infrastructure and economic progress alone, but should also include efforts to preserve history as well as ensure that younger generations understand their communities' origins and journeys.

He said that the history of rural communities, especially Bidayuh community, should be given attention as many heritage such as the story of village opening, migration, traditional leadership, wedding customs and agricultural practices are still passed down orally.

"When previous generations die, some of that knowledge is at risk of being lost with them", he said.

In this regard, Dr Simon suggested that the Sarawak State Library expand its documentation efforts on rural community history through cooperation with cultural associations, educational institutions, community leaders and local communities.

For the Bidayuh community, he said that cooperation with the National Dayak Bidayuh Association (DBNA) can be explored to collect and document materials related to history, languages, official customs as well as cultural heritage including village history and development experience in Tebedu area.

He said that the effort not only ensures the preservation of historical treasures, but also instills pride among younger generations in their identity and origins.

"An unrecorded legacy may be forgotten. Unpreserved history may be lost. But the documented history will live on for generations to come".