Embracing Lembah Bujang: Our Shared Legacy Beyond Belief
A Window into Our Past
Tucked away in the lush landscape of Kedah lies Lembah Bujang, one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological treasures. Dating back to at least the 3rd century CE, this ancient complex bears witness to a thriving civilization that once traded with India, China, and beyond. The remnants of temples, artefacts, and port cities point to a rich Hindu-Buddhist influence that shaped the region long before modern religious boundaries took hold.
A Legacy of Diversity
Yet, despite its immense historical value, efforts to explore, preserve, and celebrate Lembah Bujang have been met with resistance – not due to a lack of interest or resources, but because of fears rooted in narrow interpretations of identity. Some voices, influenced by rigid Islamist ideologies, view the ancient site as a threat to contemporary Islamic identity rather than as a window into the rich tapestry of our past.
A Contrast to Indonesia
This hesitancy stands in stark contrast to our neighbour, Indonesia – the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country. There, ancient Hindu-Buddhist sites such as Borobudur and Prambanan are not only protected but celebrated. They stand tall as icons of Indonesia’s diverse cultural roots, embraced by Muslims and non-Muslims alike. The history of these sites is taught in schools, featured in tourism campaigns, and also recognized as part of the national narrative.
A Fuller Story
Malaysia, too, has an opportunity to tell a fuller, richer story – one that acknowledges that our ancestors were traders, seafarers, artisans, and spiritual beings influenced by the philosophies of their time. Recognizing this does not dilute our present faith or identity. On the contrary, it deepens our understanding of who we are and where we come from.
A Gift, Not a Threat
Lembah Bujang is not a threat. It is a gift, a reminder that civilizations before us flourished in harmony with diversity. To deny its place in our national narrative is to deny a piece of ourselves.
A Call to Action
Let us not bury our past in fear. Let us uncover it with pride, curiosity, and maturity. By embracing the legacy of Lembah Bujang, we embrace the truth – and in doing so, we take a vital step towards a more confident, inclusive Malaysia.
Conclusion
History belongs to all of us. Let’s honour it, learn from it, and pass it on.
FAQs
Q: Why is Lembah Bujang important?
A: Lembah Bujang is one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological treasures, providing a window into the region’s rich Hindu-Buddhist past.
Q: Why has Lembah Bujang been met with resistance?
A: Efforts to explore, preserve, and celebrate Lembah Bujang have been met with resistance due to fears rooted in narrow interpretations of identity.
Q: How does Indonesia approach its ancient Hindu-Buddhist sites?
A: Indonesia celebrates its ancient Hindu-Buddhist sites, recognizing them as icons of the country’s diverse cultural roots and teaching their history in schools.
Q: What can we learn from embracing Lembah Bujang?
A: By embracing Lembah Bujang, we can deepen our understanding of who we are and where we come from, and take a vital step towards a more confident, inclusive Malaysia.