Embracing Lembah Bujang: our shared legacy beyond belief

 

From SP Nathan

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 civilisation 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.

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.

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 recognised as part of the national narrative.

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.

Recognising 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.

Lembah Bujang is not a threat. It is a gift, a reminder that civilisations before us flourished in harmony with diversity. To deny its place in our national narrative is to deny a piece of ourselves.

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.

History belongs to all of us. Let’s honour it, learn from it, and pass it on. - FMT

SP Nathan is an FMT reader.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.