National Heritage Objects

National Heritage Objects (Tangible Objects) refer to objects, collections, or artifacts that have been officially recognized and gazetted by the Government of Malaysia as national heritage possessing significant value from historical, cultural, artistic, scientific, and civilizational aspects. This recognition is implemented based on nine (9) heritage criteria as provided under Section 67(2) of the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645), which aims to protect, preserve, and ensure the sustainability of the nation's heritage so that it continues to be inherited by future generations.

In the context of the Department of Museums Malaysia, a total of 20 artifact collections have been gazetted as National Heritage Objects, which encompass various main categories. Out of that total, three (3) collections are under the archaeology category, 16 collections are under the ethnology category, and one (1) collection is under the specimen category. In addition, 18 of these collections have been digitized for the purpose of preservation, documentation, as well as a more systematic and effective dissemination of heritage information. This diversity of categories reflects the broad spectrum of recognized heritage, covering remnants of early civilizations, the cultural heritage of society, as well as natural history treasures that hold immense historical, academic, and national identity value.

In conclusion, the gazetting of these National Heritage Objects not only reflects the country's continuous commitment to preserving and dignifying the nation's historical and cultural treasures, but also reinforces national pride and identity. At the same time, this initiative ensures that the country's invaluable heritage continues to be sustainably preserved in line with the aspirations and provisions under the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645).