The nomination of Kampung Baru Cina in Selangor as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has sparked controversy, with concerns raised about its potential impact on Malaysia’s ethnic and cultural identity.
According to a report by Ismaweb, Prof. Datuk Dr. Ahmad Murad Merican from the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization at the International Islamic University Malaysia (ISTAC-IIUM) criticized the nomination, stating that it could alter Malaysia’s history and undermine the status of the indigenous Malay population.
He cautioned that UNESCO recognition could lead to Kampung Baru residents being labeled as indigenous, challenging the indigenous status of Malays and potentially portraying them as immigrants.
“We must understand what UNESCO recognition means for a site. When a site is recognised as a UNESCO heritage site, it carries several implications.
“Firstly, the site will be considered ‘original’ or ‘native’ to the country. The inhabitants of the site will be regarded as ‘indigenous’ or ‘native.’
“This will eventually be used as evidence and fact that the residents of Kampung Baru are the original inhabitants or natives of Malaysia, challenging the ‘actual indigenous inhabitants’ of the country. Subsequently, the ‘actual indigenous ‘inhabitants’ will be labeled as immigrants,” he said.
Meanwhile, Raden Salikun Mui from the Malay Agricultural Settlement (MAS) Kampong Bharu Board argued that Kampung Baru, as the oldest village in Kuala Lumpur, is more deserving of UNESCO recognition due to its Malay heritage and 124-year history.
Mui emphasised the importance of preserving Kampung Baru’s historical significance and suggested that the government prioritise infrastructure upgrades to maintain the village’s cultural value.
“Nowadays, many tourists come here but only for food, and they don’t know the history of Kampung Baru.
“We have many collections of photos, including those from the Japanese and British eras, which we keep in the MAS office.
“These materials are ready to be displayed for reference. If Japan has village locations for tourist attractions, we hope Kampung Baru can also move in that direction,” he said.
