Museum Volunteers, Department of Museums Malaysia

🌺 Did you know?
The left-hand division of the national crest represents the state of Penang (Pulau Pinang), and the right-hand division, featuring the Melaka tree, symbolizes the state of Melaka. The states of Sabah and Sarawak are represented by the left and right sections below, respectively, while the center proudly displays our national flower, the bunga raya (hibiscus). This beautifully designed shield encapsulates the unity and diversity of our beloved Malaysia!

But what about the tigers ? The Star and the Crescent ?

Follow one of our museum volunteers to learn more about. Guided tours at Muzium Negara are free of charge 😀

No pre-registration required for scheduled tours. They begin at 10am from the museum lobby, and takes approximately one hour + .

https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/mv-tours-at-muzium-negara/

🚂✨ Discover the Fascinating History of Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge (TT5) ✨🏞️

Did you know about the Tanjung Tualang tin dredge, affectionately known as TT5? Once a vital part of Malaysia's tin mining industry, TT5 ceased operations in the 1980s with the decline of tin and the rise of aluminium. However, thanks to nostalgia and a commitment to preserving industrial heritage, TT5 has been refurbished to showcase its engineering marvels.

Located at the 9th Km, Jln Tanjung Tualang, 31000 Batu Gajah, this dredge offers a unique opportunity to explore how it contributed to Malaysia's past as a tin-producing powerhouse. From its giant machinery to the intricate processes of tin extraction, TT5 provides an educational and immersive experience for all ages.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply someone eager to learn, a visit to TT5 promises insights into Malaysia's rich mining history and the ingenuity of its industrial heritage.

🌟 Come witness history in motion at TT5! 🌟



Article written, by V. Jegatheesan: https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/2023/09/25/tanjung-tualang-tin-dredge-no-5-tt5-a-refurbished-dredge-in-all-its-

🌙✨ A day before the start of Ramadan 2024, we were grateful to hear from Emna Esseghir, one of our dedicated museum volunteers, from Tunisia.

Emna's talk on Ramadan offered a thoughtful perspective, exploring traditions and practices not only from Tunisia and Malaysia but also through a cross-cultural lens.

We appreciate her contributions to our community and look forward to more enriching discussions.

Article written by Noriko Nishizawa: https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/the-secret-of-the-moon/

The Secret of The Moon MV Focus Talk with Emna Esseghir Written by Noriko Nishizawa  Zitouna mosque in Tunisia with full moon view (photo : www.tunisi.info) On the eve of Ramadan 2024, our fellow museum vo…

Museum Volunteers (MV) guided tours at Muzium Negara are free of charge 😀

No pre-registration required for scheduled tours. They begin at 10am from the museum lobby, and takes approximately one hour + .

https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/mv-tours-at-muzium-negara/

Selamat hari raya haji. Eid Mubarak! 🙂

🏛️ Should You Take Young Kids to Museums? 🏛️

It's a common question: "Are young kids too small to understand museum tours, so is it worth taking them?".
While very young children might not grasp all the details, exposing them to museums can still be highly beneficial. It sparks early curiosity and a love for learning, as many museums have interactive exhibits designed specifically for kids.

These visits can also be valuable family activities that foster bonding and shared experiences. Additionally, the visuals, sounds, and activities in museums provide important sensory stimulation. So, even if they don't understand everything, there are many benefits to taking children to museums.

What are your thoughts? Have you taken your kids to our museum? Share your experiences below!

Professor Daniel Perret, the head of the French School of Asian Studies, a visiting professor at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, History Department, Universiti Malaya. Professor Perret is renowned for his research in the history of epigraphy and archaeology in proto-urban sites across Southeast Asia.

Recently, he delivered an enlightening presentation titled "New Research into the History of the Patani Sultanate in the 16th-17th Centuries," exploring the fascinating historical aspects of Patani.

More information in the article written by « Hani Kamel »

New Research into the History of the Patani Sultanate in the 16th-17th centuries. A MV FOCUS TALK by Professor Daniel Perret (27th May 2024)By Hani Kamal Professor Daniel Perret, the head of the French School of Asian Studies at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, History D…

‏Five Minutes With: Afidah Rahim, President, Museum Volunteers, Department of Museums Malaysia

🇲🇾 ⭐️

Five Minutes With: Afidah Rahim, President, Museum Volunteers, Department of Museums Malaysia☞ Story Of Books ☞ Muzings is the annual magazine published by museum volunteers at the Department of Museums Malaysia. In its fourth year, the magazine is a treasure trove of information on Malaysian material cultur…

Uncovering Malaysia's Crafts: A Journey Begins with Earth 🇲🇾
The National Museum's "Malayan Crafts and Craftsmen" mural is more than just a beautiful artwork; it's a gateway into Malaysia's rich craft heritage! Over the next few weeks, we'll delve into each element featured on the mural, starting with EARTH, the fundamental material for pottery.

➡️ Discover Malaysian pottery, tracing its evolution from Neolithic times to contemporary practices.
➡️ Explore the museum's collection and learn how everyday objects narrate a story of heritage, creativity, and trade.

Article written by Manjeet Dhillon : https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/2024/06/11/malayan-crafts-and-craftsmen-mural-earth/

Explore Muzium Negara Like a Local: FREE Volunteer-Led Tours! 🇲🇾

Thinking of visiting Muzium Negara? Take your trip to the next level with a FREE guided tour by our amazing Museum Volunteers (MV)!

Here's why it's unmissable:

🏺Insider Scoop: Unleash the hidden stories and lesser-known gems of Malaysia's history with passionate volunteers.
🧐Interactive Learning: Bring history to life with engaging explanations and the chance to ask questions.
🕍No Hassle, All Fun: No need to register – just show up at 10am at the museum lobby and embark on a fascinating journey! (Tours last about an hour)

Explore beyond the exhibits and discover the heart of Malaysia!

https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/mv-tours-at-muzium-negara/

🌿 Discover Mantin: From Tin Mining to Tropical Delights! 🌿

Explore the charming town of Mantin in Negeri Sembilan! Once a bustling tin mining hub, Mantin has transformed into an agricultural paradise, known for its delicious tropical fruits like jackfruit, mangosteen, rambutan, and the famous King of Fruits, durian. 🍍🍈🌳

Join us as we delve into the rich history and vibrant present of this unique town. Read more about Mantin's journey from its industrious past to its fruitful present!



Read more the article written by Eric Lim: https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/2021/01/26/a-very-rough-guide-to-mantin/

🌾 From Seed to Spirit: Tadau Ka’amatan 🌾

Discover the rich heritage of Sabah's annual harvest festival, Tadau Kaamatan! This month-long celebration by the Kadazandusun community is filled with rituals, traditions, and myths centered around the rice harvest. Learn about the powerful story of Huminodun, traditional games, music, and more.

Dive into the vibrant spirit of Tadau Kaamatan and its deep cultural significance. Read the full article now written by Manjeet Dhillon!



Read more:

From Seed to Spirit: Tadau Ka’amatan By Manjeet Dillon Celebrating the Harvest Sabah’s annual harvest festival, Tadau Kaamatan, is a celebration deeply rooted in the Kadazandusun community’s cultural heritage. Centred arou…

The Chitties, or Chettis, of Melaka are among the earliest Peranakan communities in Malaysia. They are descendants of South Indian traders who married local women during the early days of the Melaka Sultanate. These intermarriages have created a unique and vibrant heritage, blending their Hindu beliefs with the traditions of their neighbors. This influence is evident in their language, cuisine, attire, and religious and cultural practices. Although well-known in Melaka, the Chitties remain relatively unknown in other parts of Malaysia.

The authors' initial study of this community sparked a deep interest in their way of life. Supported by the Department of Museums Malaysia, they have documented their findings in this book. The aim is to enhance understanding and appreciation of the Melaka Chitties.

The Chitties of Melaka Title: The Chitties of Melaka Year: 2017 Authors: Karen Loh, Jegatheesan Velupillay Length:  243 pages ISBN: 978-967-0372-27-3 The Chitties, or Chettis, of Melaka are one of the first com…

As visitors walk through the halls of the museum, they become enveloped in a symphony of sounds that pulse with centuries’ past. Each artifact and diorama emit a vibration, a sensation, telling stories of triumph and defeat, rituals and practices, layering and blending of cultures.

Every journey is the start of a story… and what better way to pay homage to our stories than through the art of listening. 🎧✨ 📜

The Sounds of Museum By Sarjit Kaur As visitors walk through the halls of the museum, they become enveloped in a symphony of sounds that pulse with centuries’ past. Each artefact and diorama emit a vibration, a sensati…

Happy International Museum Day ! 😁
Discover the wonders of our national museum! 🏛️
Museums are more than just repositories of artifacts—they're vibrant educational hubs, sparking curiosity, nurturing creativity, and cultivating critical thinking. Join us on an unforgettable journey through history, art, and culture. Explore captivating exhibits, engage in interactive experiences, and embark on a quest for knowledge. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the world around you, there's something for everyone at our museum. Come and be inspired! 🌟

"Each shirt is a testament to the unique traditions and beliefs of its creators, with intricate designs and symbols reflecting the spiritual heritage of the community.."

Ready to explore? Read the full article now!

Sacred Threads: the Spiritual and Artistic Essence of Islamic Talismanic Shirts Emna Esseghir An Islamic ottoman talismanic shirt (Source : Imagine holding a garment crafted with painstaking care, where each stitch tells a story of centuries-old tradition and every pattern whi…

🔍 Dive into the wild wonders of Sundaic Borneo with us at the MV Focus Talk series!

🌿 During this talk, we were on an adventure with Dr. Masatoshi Sone, who spilled the beans on his epic fossil hunt in Ulu Rajang's coal fields: From ancient continents to the heart of Kuala Lumpur's geological gems, it was a mind-blowing journey! Stay tuned for more jaw-dropping talks! 🌏💫 🔍

Article written by Manjeet Dhillon :

Lost Diversity of Sundaic Borneo New Findings from Sarawak Focus Talk with Professor Dr. Masatoshi Sone Written by Manjeet Dhillon Introduction: Unveiling Lost Diversity in Borneo At the MV Focus Talk series, the subject of the day was ‘Lost Diversit…

Exploring Sungai Way: Unveiling History and Heritage 🌿

Did you know that Sungai Way, a name echoing the river that gracefully winds through its terrain, holds a rich tapestry of stories and significance? Dive into the depths of history with me as we unravel the tale of this remarkable locale.

In his article, Eric Lim uncovered the journey of Sungai Way, from its humble beginnings as a meandering river to its transformation into a concrete-channelized urban watercourse. Explore how the discovery of tin deposits ignited the influx of Chinese migrant workers in the 1870s and how the introduction of rubber cultivation in the early 20th century propelled its economic growth.

Join us on a journey through time as we reflect on the impact of historical events such as the Japanese Occupation and the Emergency on Sungai Way's trajectory.

Embark on a voyage of discovery and rediscover the hidden gems of Sungai Way. Read the full article by Eric Lim here: https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/2023/06/13/a-very-rough-guide-to-sungai-way/

🚶‍♂️🌳

A Very Rough Guide to Sungai Way By Eric Lim Introduction Early on in my working career, I had worked in two companies located at Section 51A in Petaling Jaya, just off the Federal Highway. And Sungai Way which is just a short dis…

🏮 Dive into the Heart of Kuala Lumpur Chinatown! 🏮

Curious about the vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and community that makes up Kuala Lumpur Chinatown? 🌆 Join us as we explore its bustling streets, heritage sites, and the issues that shape its identity.

In his latest article, "A Very Rough Guide To Kuala Lumpur Chinatown," Eric Lim delve into the intricacies of this iconic neighborhood, from its rich cultural heritage to the challenges it faces today.

Discover the stories behind the security operations, the proposed relocation of Pasar Karat, and the evolving landscape of this dynamic enclave.

Let's embark on a journey of discovery together! Read the full article here: https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/2024/04/20/a-very-rough-guide-to-kuala-lumpur-chinatown/

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A Very Rough Guide To KUALA LUMPUR CHINATOWN By Eric Lim Introduction As we all know, Federal Territory Day has been celebrated on 1 February every year since its inception in 1974 when Kuala Lumpur was transferred to the Federal Government. …

🌟 Dive into the fascinating world of antique maps and sea charts with our latest article featuring Julian Candiah! 🗺️ A Cambridge University graduate with First-Class Honours in Engineering, Julian's journey from international banking to private equity is nothing short of inspiring.

🏛️ Not content with just financial prowess, Julian lent his expertise pro bono to Penang as Special Advisor to the Chief Minister in 2009. Now, he's unraveling the mysteries of Johor's early 19th-century history through insightful articles.

🗝️ With a collection boasting over 20 sea charts from renowned cartographers, Julian's passion transcends mere hobby—it's a genre unto itself.

Join us as we explore his remarkable journey and the unique skills he brings to the art of collecting and preserving these historical treasures! 🌊📜

Article written by Hani Kamal 👇🏻

“A Cartographic Journey Through History using Nautical Charts” By Julian Candiah – MV Focus Talk of 24th February 2024 Written By Hani Kamal Julian Candiah is a collector of antique maps and sea charts from Malaysia and Singapore. He read Engineering at…

Selamat Hari Raya! Wishing you a joyous and blessed celebration filled with happiness, peace, and prosperity !

📖 Dive into the captivating journey of Sarjit Kaur as she shares her experiences as a Museum Volunteer (MV) intern in her article, "Echoes of the Vitrines: My Journey as a Museum Volunteer." 🏛️

For the past six months, Sarjit has delved into the world of museums, exploring their treasures, stories, and secrets. From September 2023 to March 2024, she embarked on a transformative journey alongside fellow trainees, each carving their path at their own pace.

🔍 Join Sarjit as she unveils the echoes of the past, the beauty of artifacts, and the profound impact of volunteering ✨
Don't miss out on this insightful read! Click the link below to embark on Sarjit's museum adventure:

https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/2024/04/04/echoes-of-the-vitrines-my-journey-as-a-museum-volunteer/

Echoes of the Vitrines: My Journey as a Museum Volunteer By Sarjit Kaur The past six months have been an enriching and transformative experience for me as a Museum Volunteer (MV) intern. From September 2023 to March 2024, I embarked on this journey, alon…

How European politics influenced colonialism in the Malay World ? 🌎

Spices were at the centre of European interest in the East, especially in the Malay World. Indeed, it is a recurring theme in our tours. However, it was local political events in Europe that shaped the patterns of European colonial ventures..
You want to know more ? You can read the article written by Jean-Marie Metzger :

How European politics influenced colonialism in the Malay World by Jean-Marie Metzger Spices were at the centre of European interest in the East, especially in the Malay World. Indeed, it is a recurring theme in our tours. However, it was local political events…

🏛️ Explore Museum Negara at your own pace! 🚶‍♂️✨

Looking for a personalized museum experience? Discover our self-guided tour! 📜🔍 Whether you're a history buff or just curious, take your time to soak in the beauty and stories of our galleries at your leisure.

🕰️📖 Don't hesitate to embark on this adventure of discovery. 🌟 🎉🔎

A Self-Guided Tour of Muzium Negara Introduction Welcome to Muzium Negara.  This tour will take us through a journey with snippets of Malaysian history. We shall trace prehistoric times through to Malay kingdoms and the colonial…

🌟 Explore the mysteries of the past ! 🏛️✨

Did you know that right in Gallery A, lies the Perak Man? 💀🌿 Step into history as you pass by the corner from the entrance, just before the D**g Son drum. The Perak Man is a remarkable discovery dating back an incredible 10,000 years! 🕰️🔍

While we may have heard the 'told' stories of the bones, including the excavation site and the pelvic bone that indicates the skeleton belonged to a man, there are also 'untold' stories waiting to be discovered. 📜💭

From the genetic disorder of the Perak Man to the respect he garnered from his tribe, there's so much more to uncover. And who knows what other stories lie beneath the soil layers in Lenggong Valley, waiting to be revealed? 🌿🌟

Curious to learn more ? We recommend this article written by Ringo Wong Yun Teng : https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/2023/06/20/out-of-museum-a-trip-to-lenggong-valley/

💫 🎉🔎

Out of Museum: A trip to Lenggong Valley By Ringo Wong Yun Teng “Here lies the Perak Man.” This could be a standard script when we take visitors to Gallery A of Museum Negara, passing by the corner from the entrance, before the D**g Son d…

🌟 Reflecting on an enriching session! 🌟

Our recent talk with Professor Dr. Farish Noor left us captivated and enlightened! 🎓 His profound insights into Southeast Asia's history, particularly the significance of the 19th century, were truly eye-opening.

As a distinguished academic from the Department of History at University Malaya, Dr. Farish shed light on the profound impact of capitalism and imperialism during this pivotal century. He emphasized how understanding the historical and institutional context is crucial in comprehending our past and its ramifications today.

One of the highlights was delving into Stamford Raffles' administration in Java. Dr. Farish's analysis provided fascinating perspectives on why Raffles is revered as a hero in contemporary times.

For more details on the insightful discussion, check out the blog post by "Noriko Nishizawa": https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/2024/03/22/raffles-in-java/

Thank you, Dr. Farish, for an engaging discourse that broadened our horizons! 🌍

RAFFLES IN JAVA By Noriko Nishizawa, inspired by professor Dr. Farish A Noor’s talk on January 27th, 2024 When you google Stamford Raffles, the first sentence that you will most likely come across is, “Sir Thomas …

🏛️ Did you know that Malaysia is home to a wealth of cultural treasures? But just how many museums are there across the country?

So many? 😃 Absolutely! Each museum offers a unique glimpse into Malaysia's rich heritage and diverse culture. But the burning question remains: How many exactly? The answer lies in Maganjeet Kaur's article linked below.

Join us on a journey of exploration as we uncover the fascinating stories that shape our nation's identity. Which museum will you visit first? 🇲🇾✨

Museums in Malaysia by Maganjeet Kaur As we know, the D**gson drum displayed in the burial section of Gallery A is one of two found face down in a boat burial at Kampung Sungai Lang, Selangor. What about the second dr…

Did you know that guiding children and adults in our museum requires different approaches? 🧐
As volunteers, we have a unique opportunity to adapt our methods to cater to the diverse interests and learning styles of our visitors.
When guiding kids, we focus on interactive activities, storytelling, and nurturing their curiosity. For adults, we provide in-depth insights, encourage critical thinking, and offer tours tailored to their interests.
By customizing our approach, we ensure that everyone enjoys a memorable and enriching experience at the museum.

You can follow our free guided tours, more details in our website: https://museumvolunteersjmm.com

🌟 Dive into the Fascinating History of Tin Extraction in the Malay World! ✨

Curious to learn more about how tin shaped the history of Malaya? Join us for a captivating journey penned by Katie Luccin. Discover the evolution of tin extraction, from its humble beginnings to its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution.

For the full article, head over to our website and discover more :
https://museumvolunteersjmm.com/2024/03/14/the-mines/

The mines By Katia Luccin Selangor in the 1870’s – source: Tin, an attractive resource Tin has been extracted for centuries in the Malay world. Less precious than gold but found in larger quantit…