VITAL HISTORY: Daresah (centre), flanked by State Archives director Norsuriaty Awang Hassim (left) and National Archives director Yatimah Rimun, speaks at the press conference. — Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi
KUCHING: New historical research findings must be brought forward for debate and discussion to ensure the accuracy of the country’s history, said National Archives of Malaysia director-general Daresah Ismail.
She said when researchers and historians present their findings to the public, society at large will get a more balanced picture and perception of our history.
“This is especially so for the early history of our country. There is not much record or documents that provide information on the early settlements. Most of our historical facts are based on archaeological findings, which give a picture of life through the discoveries of plates and pottery.
“Through dedicated research by historians, more facts can be gathered and verified to fill the void of our early history. This is important for our national archives so that people will have access to authentic historical facts,” she told reporters at the 27th Session Polemic on Malaysian History — Sarawak Settlement 1400-1840 yesterday.
Daresah said the National Archives would compile all research findings to assist future research.
“In Sarawak itself, early settlements date back to the 1400s until 1840. However, there is not much research or reading materials on the subject.
“We hope that with the panellists for this session, who have done their research on the subject, will provide a clearer picture of early settlement here,” she said.
Daresah pointed out that this is the second time such an event was held in the state, following an event in Simunjan earlier this year on Sarawak’s pre-1400 settlement.
“We encourage members of the public, especially students, to attend such sessions so that they will be exposed to the latest historical findings,” she said.
The three panellists for yesterday’s session were Associate Professor Dr Bilcher Bala, who spoke on the history during the Brooke era; Associate Professor Dr Neilson Ilan Mersat, who presented his findings on early Iban migration; and Bidah Ugong, who spoke on Bidayuh migration and early settlement.
Dr Ahi Sarok from Universiti Sarawak Malaysia (Unimas) chaired the session.