June 02, 2010 15:44 PM
Bernama
By Ummi Nadiah Rosli
The first of two parts
KUALA LUMPUR, June 2 (Bernama) -- The word itself may have come to sound like dusty shelves or stagnant water, but 'heritage' is not only about the blast from the past.
Whether it is an ancient archaeological site, a nostalgic building or a traditional art form, Malaysia's rich heritage are stories and memories that have shaped our identity.
And resonating with the past is not about being sentimental. In a country where ancient temples, mosques and churches can exist side by side, to turn our backs on a great and noble heritage is a great loss.
With the tapestry of local treasures, the Department of National Heritage (JWN) has been busy keeping our heritage trail alive.
Established four years ago, JWN's mission is to empower and champion heritage as the core identity of the Malaysian people's legacy.
GUARDIANS OF HERITAGE
The Commissioner of Heritage Emeritus Professor Datuk Zuraina Majid explained that the department's objectives were to conserve, maintain and protect the nation's cultural and natural heritage by research, documentation, enforcement and raising awareness on heritage.
To ensure the continuous presence of Malaysia's vibrant heritage, JWN undertakes several roles which mainly comprise of documentation, conservation and enforcement.
Enforcement works carried out are according to the provisions of the National Heritage Act 2005 [Act 645], and to issue heritage order and register the heritage items with the National Heritage Register.
An example of this is the guidelines governing swiflet farming that require only premises which have not been designated as Class 1 Heritage Building to be converted into a swiftlet farm.
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