Cultural organisation PUSAKA partners with Allianz Malaysia on Projek Bina Bangsa, a public education initiative, which will provide a clarity on the forging of Malaysia as a nation.
The initiative through the publication of a series of 10 books, explore the foundations and milestones of the nation’s history, its present, and its future. It is led by Eddin Khoo, writer, cultural researcher, and son of the eminent historian, the late Emeritus Professor Tan Sri Datuk Dr Khoo Kay Kim. The titles are The Rukunegara, The Malayan Union, The Making of the Malayan Constitution, The Formation of Malaysia, The National Language Act and National Cultural Congress, The Malacca Digest, The Treaty of Pangkor, The Malay Reservation Enactment 1913, The New Economic Policy, and Wawasan 2020.
According to Khoo, there is an ever growing interest in history among Malaysians and through this initiative, PUSAKA hopes to engage the Malaysian public in a very meaningful contemplation of the foundations of our nation.
“We hope to convey the history, setting, relevance and purpose of each topic within the context of the perennial and present-day challenges facing Malaysia’s diverse and complex society,” Khoo said.
He also pointed out that the effects brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, greater social cohesion and integration will be imperative. Efforts at consolidating a national memory and rooting the nation in its foundations will be essential to realising this quest.
Allianz Malaysia Berhad Chief Executive Officer, Zakri Khir, believes that being in the business of protection and as a corporate citizen of Malaysia, insurers can play an important role in protecting the nation by promoting unity.
“Malaysia’s remarkable history is often under-appreciated. Our history books at school only give us a glimpse of the immense struggles our forefathers went through to lead Malaysia to independence. These missing links and forgotten stories can inculcate pride and a sense of belonging to the nation and unite Malaysians regardless of their colour or creed,” Zakri said.
Zakri also said there is a need to instill a love for history and patriotism amongst , especially the young.
“I am thrilled that this initiative has come about now and Allianz Malaysia is very proud to be working alongside PUSAKA to achieve this,” Zakri added.
The books will be released in stages between August and December this year and will be available in selected book stores.
In addition to the books, Projek Bina Bangsa will also produce a series of online videos as well as a series of online discussions surrounding the 10 topics. This initiative aims to engage with Malaysian youth, students, civil society groups, media, public representatives, and the wider public in discussions and reflections on Malaysian history.
To learn more about Projek Bina Bangsa, visit www.projekbinabangsa.com. To learn more about PUSAKA, visit pusaka.org/. To learn more about Allianz Malaysia Berhad, visit allianz.com.my.
