NRAN documentary sheds light on Northern Malaysia’s rich heritage

Think City, in collaboration with Yayasan Hasanah and under the auspices of the Ministry of Finance, recently hosted a captivating documentary screening event that illuminated the rich heritage of Northern Malaysia. The event showcased the Northern Region Archaeotourism Network Programme (NRAN), aimed at preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the region while driving cultural tourism and economic growth. The documentaries, produced by renowned docu-filmmaker Iman Corinne Adrienne and Serpentiga Films, delved into the historical and archaeological treasures of Northern Malaysia.

Preserving the cultural heritage of the Northern Region

The event featured three compelling documentaries that not only highlighted the region’s historical and cultural significance but also underscored the importance of preserving it. “Exploring the Northern Region of Malaysia” provided an overview of NRAN’s objectives and its dedicated efforts to safeguard the cultural heritage of the Northern Region. “Lenggong Valley: Unearthing Our Past” offered valuable insights into Lenggong’s archaeological findings and cultural assets, contributing to Malaysia’s rich anthropology and history. Meanwhile, “Bujang Valley: The Cradle of Malaysia’s Early Civilization” explored the archaeological and cultural assets of Bujang Valley, emphasizing its role as a center of early civilization in the country.

Prof. Dato’ Dr. Siti Zuraina Abdul Majid, a pioneer in archaeology and esteemed authority in the field, delivered a keynote address during the event. She emphasized the global significance of Malaysia’s archaeological sites, stating, “It is our responsibility to preserve these sites not only for Malaysia but for our local communities and the world. The skeleton of Perak Man is highly significant, contributing to the history of world medical science.”

UNESCO recognition and economic benefits

Think City’s NRAN initiative is positioning the Northern Region for potential UNESCO recognition, a move that could significantly impact the region’s economy and identity on the global stage. YB Steven Sim, Deputy Minister of Finance II, highlighted the government’s commitment to cultural and historical tourism, stating, “Budget 2023 has allocated RM250 million for tourism promotion, especially cultural and historical-based tourism. Through the efforts by Think City and the seeds sown by Prof. Datuk Dr. Siti Zuraina, these efforts are now extending beyond Lenggong.”

The NRAN project, with an investment of RM10 million, aims to create new jobs and investments in targeted sites across the Northern Region. It also focuses on strengthening the ecosystem surrounding these sites, establishing multiple pit stops and entry points into a neural network based on the overarching narrative of the Northern Region. This multi-year program is designed to sustain and enhance local economic development.

Hamdan Abdul Majeed, Managing Director of Think City, expressed his vision for the NRAN initiative, stating, “The Northern Region Archaeotourism Network Programme is an ambitious endeavor aimed at connecting our rich historical heritage, cultural sites, natural wonders, archaeological marvels, and monuments in the Northern Region. It emphasizes the wealth of our history, underscores the imperative to safeguard and preserve it, and highlights how we are connected as a multicultural society.”

He further added, “However, we are just at the start of this journey, and we need to ensure the continuity of this program through partnerships, collaborations, government and private sector support, and increased funding.”

Empowering cultural heritage preservation

The event also celebrated 18 grantees of the Cultural Economy Catalytic Grants Programme Cycle 2, an integral component of the NRAN initiative. These grants empower individuals and organizations to actively contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. To date, Think City has completed two cycles with a total of 42 grantees receiving funding to implement their programs, making significant contributions not only to Perak but also linking other sites like Wang Kelian and Kedah.

Think City is actively collaborating with 14 other organizations on partnership grants and is involved in four projects as part of a management initiative. The NRAN has garnered a combined value of RM15.6 million in grants, partnerships, and management initiatives, reflecting the growing commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Northern Region of Peninsular Malaysia.