KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s museums are increasingly embracing technology to enhance their role as educational and cultural spaces, officials say. Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, the National Unity Minister, emphasized that museums should evolve beyond merely housing historical artifacts to becoming dynamic venues that engage and educate the public about the nation’s heritage.

Highlighting this approach, the Merdeka Textile Museum (MTM) located at the Merdeka 118 complex serves as an example of blending tradition with modern technology. The museum features the Azah Aziz Treasure Collection, consisting of 240 traditional garments and 69 pieces of classic jewelry. This personal collection belonged to the late cultural icon Azah Aziz and includes notable items such as songket sarongs, baju kurung limar, and tekat emas—an intricate form of gold-thread embroidery.

According to Aaron, these collections do more than display historical artifacts; they function as important tools for preserving and promoting Malaysia’s textile heritage, history, and cultural identity. To reach younger audiences and foster greater public interest, the MTM integrates contemporary methods such as digital technology, interactive displays, and augmented reality experiences. These innovations aim to bring traditional motifs, weaving techniques, and textile arts to life in engaging and accessible ways.

Through efforts led by the Department of Museums Malaysia, under the ministry’s guidance, there is an ongoing commitment to strengthening the national museum ecosystem. The goal is to ensure museums remain relevant, inclusive, and closely connected with communities across the country, supporting education and cultural awareness in an increasingly digital age.