Legal provisions to be reviewed over collection of materials for archives

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INTERESTING: Rais takes a closer look at the exhibition item after launching the anniversary celebrations. — Bernama photo

KUALA LUMPUR: The Information, Communications and Culture Ministry will review the existing legal mechanism to ensure smooth gathering of audio visual materials and important documents for the nation’s archives.

Its minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said discussions were being held and if weaknesses were found in the legal provisions, the ministry was prepared to amend the National Archives Act.

“If all the departments are asked (to hand over documents or other materials), they have to surrender them to the archives. Hence, enforcement of the law must be emphasised and I hope the review will be completed soon.

“But before we can amend the Act, we need to be briefed by the director-general (of the National Archives) and the advisers whether we need to amend the Act,” he said after launching the 55th anniversary celebrations of the National Archives of Malaysia, here, yesterday.

Rais also said that close cooperation between the National Archives, Department of Museums and National Heritage Department was vital for stories on the country’s civilisation to be told to the public based on authentic records and data pertaining to nationhood, society and the economy.

“The archives as a civilisational treasure trove, can attract the interest of all levels of society. In this regard, the ministry plans to draw up a media programme with the archives, museums and heritage departments so that the archives are alive and valued by the community.

“Records kept by the archives are regarded as ‘silent’ and ‘static’. So, we should give the archives a new injection through the media and a new concept where the archives become fluid so that the old and new generations understand and appreciate our history more,” he said. — Bernama