Kuala lumpur: The establishment of the National Historians' Council (MSjN) marks a government's strategic move to strengthen the nation's historical narrative in an authoritative, inclusive, and evidence-based manner, while addressing disputes and factual distortions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, National Archives of Malaysia (ANM) director-general Zaidin Mohd Noor highlighted the importance of MSjN in the social media era, where historical information is easily misinterpreted. He described the council as an authoritative and competent body that provides official explanations on disputed issues based on authentic sources. Zaidin emphasized the council's role in ensuring that the construction of national identity is grounded in truth and scientific discipline, as opposed to being influenced by sentiment, perception, or unfounded myths.
Launched on September 8, 2025, the National Historians' Council is led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, with National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang serving as Deputy Chairman, and the National Archives of Malaysia acting as its secretariat. The council comprises 14 members, including 10 historians, two archaeologists, one anthropologist, and a sociologist.
Zaidin further stated that MSjN is committed to ensuring that Malaysian history is written and taught inclusively, acknowledging the contributions of all races, regions, and social groups to create a fair and balanced narrative that reflects the country's rich diversity. He noted that providing a comprehensive presentation of history allows people to see themselves as part of Malaysia's nation-building journey, which can cultivate a sense of togetherness, reinforce unity, and strengthen national identity within Malaysia's diverse communities.
Zaidin also mentioned that MSjN plays an active role in enhancing public understanding of the country's history through various initiatives such as forums and the publication of scholarly materials, bringing historical discourse closer to the public through an open, accessible, and fact-based approach. He stressed that a historically literate public not only comprehends past events but also embraces the values of tolerance, unity, and democracy that underpin national identity, fostering a more informed, mature, and united society.
Additionally, Zaidin noted that through close collaboration with strategic partners, MSjN undertakes the preservation of documents, artefacts, and other valuable historical resources, aiming to shape Malaysians' collective memory and ensure future generations gain a deep understanding of the country's history. One of MSjN's six key responsibilities is to act as an authoritative body that provides the government with guidance on disputes concerning national history grounded in authentic research and sources.
Zaidin highlighted that the council also includes government policy guidelines and actions, which serve as key considerations in determining, guiding, or enforcing policies related to national history. In the field of education, MSjN works closely with the Ministry of Education to provide expert input on the history curriculum to ensure the accuracy of historical facts, prevent distortion, and emphasize elements of nationhood, the Constitution, and the process of forming Malaysia in teaching and learning.
Zaidin concluded by stating that MSjN's support for the National Education Blueprint 2026-2035, which emphasizes the importance of history as a core subject in nation-building, reflects the council's commitment to shaping national identity.