25/02/2026

WEDNESDAY | FEB 25, 2026

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COMMENT by Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed

Invest more in museums and heritage T HE government has reportedly allocated RM600 million to restore some of Kuala Lumpur’s crown jewels, Countries like Turkey, France, UK, Japan and South Korea have demonstrated how world-class museums drive tourism and promote culture and history.

cultural” destinations, Malaysia can differentiate itself in a global market. Heritage tourism is a big investment for our future, creating jobs and business opportunities and projecting our diverse identity as a strategic asset. The Warisan KL project signals a crucial shift from viewing museums as static, publicly-funded archives to dynamic, potentially profitable components of a cultural ecosystem. The project demonstrates that heritage infrastructure can be an asset class. When a sovereign wealth fund, like Khazanah National, makes a significant commitment, it encourages the private investor to notice the potential impact. We can expect a ripple effect – more private capital seeking similar ventures, boutique cultural spaces and experiential historical attractions. The future of museums lies not just in displaying artifacts but also in curating meaningful experiences – something these restored sites are perfectly positioned to do. As Malaysia moves up towards being a high-income nation, cultural infrastructure, recreation and sports will play an increasingly important role in national well-being. Museums and heritage sites will also instil pride in Malaysia’s history, especially as history becomes a compulsory subject in schools.

including Carcosa Seri Negara, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building Complex and the Keretapi Tanah Melayu train station. This is more than a conservation project. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim described these buildings as critical landmarks representing our national identity, history and the legacy of the Malay rulers. The plan to transform the area into a “heritage park” aims to boost tourism, creative industries and new job opportunities. The RM600 million is a strategic investment to preserve history and instil national pride, turning symbols of colonial administration into vibrant hubs of Malaysian culture and community. Galleries, museums and cultural spaces within these buildings will shift the focus from who built them to what they signify for Malaysians today – a living canvas for art, history and shared identity. Economically, this is a masterstroke for sustainable tourism. Modern travellers and more Malaysians are increasingly seeking authentic, immersive experiences over generic attractions. By creating world-class “eco

It is time we invest in upgrading our museums. We have a rich history and culture, as well as a successful economic and social transformation that deserves to be shared with the world. With world-class museums and first-class tourism infrastructure, Malaysia can occupy a prominent place on the global tourism map while fostering a deep sense of pride in our past among our citizens. Moving forward, we should conduct an audit of federal and state museums and memorials, including Muzium Negara, Muzium DiRaja at the old Istana Negara, Memorial Tunku Abdul Rahman and Memorial Tun Abdul Razak. The audit should assess visitor numbers, quality of exhibits and overall visitor experience. Many view the National Museum as too small and poorly located. We need a clear plan to transform the National Museum into a world-class museum. It should be relocated to a larger site within KL/Putrajaya/Klang Valley – ideally 50 to 100 acres – with good access to public transport. Every state should also upgrade its museums to better showcase

Heritage tourism is a big investment for our future, creating jobs and business opportunities and projecting our diverse identity as a strategic asset. – BERNAMAPIC

and laying the groundwork for a tourism economy. This is not mere spending; it is part of nation-building. One can only hope that the success of “Warisan KL” becomes a blueprint, inspiring similar visionary initiatives. DatukSeri Mustapa Mohamed is a former minister who headed the portfolios of Entrepreneur Development, Higher Education, Agriculture, International Trade and Industry, and Economy (in the PM’s Department) for over 37 years. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

local heritage. With this being Visit Malaysia Year, it is the perfect opportunity to enhance our heritage infrastructure. Many view Khazanah’s initiative as a powerful investment in the nation’s soul and its economic future. It recognises that a country’s heritage is not merely a relic to be preserved but also a resource to be harnessed. By breathing new life into these iconic buildings and infrastructure, Malaysia is creating more than just tourist destinations; it is fortifying its cultural identity, fostering civic pride

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