Malaysia's rich heritage is not only good for promoting tourism and trade but also can help enhance the country's image in the eyes of the world, said Information Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim.
He said in relation to this, Malaysia could follow in the footsteps of China and Eastern Europe which are using their national heritage not only for tourism and trade but also several aspects of their civilisation to enhance the image of their countries.
Rais said through studies and efforts undertaken by the National Heritage Department (NHD), he hoped the image of Malaysia's heritage in the eyes of the world could be enhanced from time to time.
"Heritage sites like Lenggong (Perak), Bujang Valley (Kedah) can make Malaysia more famous. Melaka and Penang, through our efforts, have earned Unesco recognition as world heritage sites," he said in his speech during a visit to the NHD here Tuesday.
Rais said heritage matters should be included in the national agenda and not limited to museums or archaeological sites. Cooperation between the federal and state governments was also important to ensure heritage sites were preserved, including in opposition-held states, he said.
"There are certain quarters who hold the notion that heritage sites in their states need not be consulted with the NHD or they feel its is the state's right to determine the future of such sites," he said.
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