Anwar History Must Be Interpreted Through Moral Values

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Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reminded historians and scholars that the interpretation of history must be guided by both moral values and noble principles that define civilisation and culture. — STR/ WAN NABIL NASIR.PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reminded historians and scholars that the interpretation of history must be guided by both moral values and noble principles that define civilisation and culture.
Speaking at the launch and inaugural meeting of the National Historians Council at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (IPCC), Anwar said history is not merely about recording events, but about highlighting what is noble, recognised, and refined, so these values can be firmly instilled in society.
"History has to be studied from a moral point of view.
"It does not run away from the truth and the fate of history. Our role is to provide empirical data in history," he said.
He added that the interpretation of history must emphasise what is considered noble, familiar, and refined, and these values should be introduced into the system and instilled firmly.
Anwar recalled the early attempts during the Asian Historians Conference in 1961, noting that while not all earlier efforts were perfect, they laid the groundwork for shaping Malaysia's intellectual tradition.
He also drew on the writings of Belgian historian Henri Pirenne, who argued that the concept of modernity and rationalism in Europe only emerged after its encounter and interaction with Islamic civilisation.
"When we study our own history, we must look from this perspective.
"We cannot disregard earlier influences, especially Islam, which brought deep change to our culture — from food and clothing to daily practices and ways of thinking about what is good and what is not," he said.
Anwar added that while the establishment of the National Historians Council is an important step, it is not the first attempt to correct or straighten out Malaysian history.
"There have been many earlier works that supported this concept. Our task is to embrace these strengths, continue the discourse, and provide advice to the government on the next steps," he said.
Also present were National Unity Minister Datuk Seri Aaron Ago Dagang, his deputy, Saraswathy Kandasami, and Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul.
The council, approved by the Cabinet on Jan 24, 2025, comprises 17 members, including historians, archaeologists, anthropologists, sociologists, and representatives from the ministries of National Unity, Higher Education, and Education.
Their two-year term runs from Aug 1 to July 31, 2027.
The council will regulate research, source referencing, writing, publishing, history education, and historical advocacy to ensure the nation's heritage and contributions are duly recorded and preserved. - NST

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