In 2025, Malaysia witnessed a landmark alliance between two of its top academic institutions — Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) and Universiti Malaya (UM) — and leading cultural bodies such as the Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM) and the Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM).
This unprecedented collaboration bridges the worlds of higher education and museums, reshaping how cultural heritage is taught, studied, and experienced.
Educational Initiatives in Malaysia
UNIMAS and Borneo Cultures Museum: A Model for Hands-On Learning
The partnership between UNIMAS and BCM demonstrates how museums can become dynamic classrooms, offering immersive, hands-on experiences. Anthropology and Sociology students gain direct access to rare artefacts, historical exhibits, and unique cultural resources that deepen their understanding of Malaysia’s rich heritage.
During International Museum Day 2025, 40 first-year UNIMAS students engaged directly with exhibits such as the Papan Turai Gawai Batu 517 and explored the archaeological wonders of the Niah Caves.
In June 2025, second-year students participated in the Heritage Discourse Programme, allowing them to network with heritage professionals and learn practical strategies for cultural preservation.
This initiative strengthens students’ connection to their cultural roots while inspiring them to contribute actively to heritage conservation.
University of Malaya and the National Museum of Malaysia
UM’s Cultural Heritage Studies programme, developed in partnership with the National Museum, equips students with practical skills in conservation, curatorship, and heritage management.
Through real-world assignments, students engage in digitization projects, archaeological fieldwork, and exhibition planning — gaining firsthand insight into preserving both ancient artefacts and modern cultural treasures.
Annual internships at the National Museum give students valuable industry experience, preparing a new generation of museum professionals dedicated to safeguarding Malaysia’s cultural diversity.
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UM’s Strategic Alliance with the Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM)
Further strengthening its museum connections, UM collaborates with JMM to design innovative teaching systems that merge academic research with heritage sector expertise.
The 31 May 2023 MoU reaffirmed their shared commitment to joint research, advanced curation methods, and interdisciplinary heritage initiatives.
Students benefit from direct collaboration with curators, working on exhibition design, conservation projects, and the creation of comprehensive digital archives. This ensures they graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical industry readiness.
National Impact on Education and Cultural Preservation
The synergy between Malaysian universities and museums serves as a global example of museum-based learning. Integrating academic curricula with museum resources enriches students’ understanding of history while empowering them to become advocates for heritage conservation.
The Sarawak Museum Department and UNIMAS continue to expand outreach by organizing heritage education programs for local students, encouraging them to connect with artefacts and historical narratives that define Malaysian identity.
By aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals), these collaborations highlight the broader role of cultural partnerships in promoting sustainability, academic excellence, and community engagement.
This long-term initiative showcases the transformative potential of cross-sector collaboration — producing graduates equipped to excel in the museum sector and beyond, while ensuring Malaysia’s cultural legacy thrives for generations.
