History Lessons

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has come under public scrutiny due to a "controversial guidebook" which was used to teach a course on Ethnic Relations. The guidebook allegedly blames certain factions for inciting the infamous May 13 racial riots.

On Sunday, I got upset after watching a video of an ugly spat between two student groups at the same university. You can read Wong Chun Wai's analysis on the event here. On Tuesday, ex-PM Tun Dr Mahathir officiated the launch of The Chinese Malaysian Contribution. According to The Star, the book records contributions made by the Chinese migrant community. On Wednesday, The Sun published an editorial suggesting biasness in some history books used in schools.

I've just finished reading a book called Understanding Iraq which details the nation's history from medieval times through Saddam Hussein's regime to the American invasion. The author William Polk emphasises that America is repeating the same mistakes Britain made back in the 1950s when it was occupying the region. Polk suggests that Americans (specifically those in power) have been poor history students.

It is absolutely crucial for good history students to exist to ensure that past mistakes are not repeated. It is important that a repeat of May 13th does not occur.

On top of that, excellent historical literature is necessary as well. The role of every community throughout the history of Malaysia needs to be emphasised equally. Less stories are told about some communities as no one bothers to write them. Less stories are known because no one values them.

It's a downward spiral. Poor historical literature gives rise to poor history scholars who then produce poor(er) historical literature.