Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for a deeper appreciation of Asian history that moves beyond colonial narratives, citing Tipu Sultan of Mysore, an Indian ruler who fought against the British East India Company, as a model of courage, learning, and tolerance. He emphasized the importance of understanding history from the perspective of local and regional leaders rather than solely from Western accounts.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, during the launch of the "More Than A Day As A Tiger" exhibition at the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, Anwar highlighted the contributions of Tipu Sultan and his father Haider Ali as defenders against British colonial expansion. He echoed the words of scholar Syed Hussein Alatas, stressing the need to reconstruct history as it should not be written only by the victors or from the perspective of colonial rulers.
The event was attended by notable figures, including the Prime Minister's wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Albukhary Foundation Chairman Tan Sri Syed Mokhtar Al-Bukhary, and Malaysian National News Agency Chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, alongside representatives from various embassies and consulates.
Anwar remarked that Malaysian history, much like many others, is often narrated from a British-centric viewpoint, reflecting Western colonial rule. He referenced academic accounts, including those by Edward Said on Orientalism, to illustrate how history, culture, and society have been shaped by Western perspectives.
Reflecting on his personal experiences, Anwar shared memories of visiting Mysore before taking office, expressing admiration for Tipu Sultan's modest palace and his efforts to protect Hindu temples, such as the ancient temple in Mysore. Anwar also lauded Tipu Sultan's military acumen, particularly the Mysore Sultanate's advanced weaponry that initially astonished the British forces.
The Prime Minister underscored the significance of the exhibition, describing it as more than just a display of historical artefacts. It is a showcase of India's history, the Muslim world, and the anti-colonial struggle against British rule. He highlighted Tipu Sultan's diplomatic skills and his efforts to secure French support against the British.
Anwar acknowledged the limited awareness of Tipu Sultan and Haider Ali among Malaysians, noting that the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia's exhibition would enhance understanding of these historical figures. The exhibition, featuring a vast array of artefacts, manuscripts, weaponry, and artworks related to Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan, will be open to the public from tomorrow until January 11, 2026, at Special Gallery 2.