Kuala lumpur: Rather than merely viewing artefacts behind glass, young people are being given the opportunity to experience the role of a curator through the 'Bermalam di Muzium' (Night at the Museum) 2026 programme, which aims to foster an interest in learning about, appreciating and preserving the country's heritage.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ministry of National Unity deputy secretary-general (Policy and Strategic Planning) Mohamad Sobri Mat Daud said the programme, themed 'Young Curators', was gaining popularity, with 2,373 students taking part at 32 museums nationwide. He emphasized the importance of experiential learning in history, allowing students to interact with collections and artefacts displayed in museums.
Mohamad Sobri highlighted the programme's role in fostering closer ties among students of various races, building identity, and boosting self-confidence. By learning about the country's artefacts and civilisation, participants develop a deeper love for the country and strengthen bonds of unity among one another. He shared these insights with reporters after the 'Bermalam di Muzium' closing ceremony at Dataran Muzium Negara.
The event was attended by Museums Department (JMM) deputy director-general (Policy) Mohamad Shawali Badi, JMM deputy director-general (Museums) Mohd Razaimi Hamat, Akademi Kenegaraan Malaysia (AKM) deputy director-general (Management) Saliza Mokhtar, and National Museum director Zamrul Amri Zakaria.
Mohamad Sobri expressed hope that this exposure would shape the younger generation into future national leaders with a strong sense of identity and patriotic spirit. Meanwhile, Mohamad Shawali explained that the 'Young Curators' theme provided students with insights into the responsibilities of curators, including research, preservation, collection management, and exhibitions.
He noted that understanding the curator's role could lead students to better appreciate museums as institutions that preserve and impart knowledge, beyond just storing historical artefacts.
The two-day programme, held from September 15-16, included various activities such as the Young Curators programme, a talk session with the AKM, a knowledge-sharing session with curators, Young Curators Fun Walk, and Museum Exploration. The initiative was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of National Unity, JMM, Ministry of Education, educational institutions, state and institutional museums, and strategic partners including AKM, Yayasan MR DIY, Thong Bowl, and Yeos.