Anwar Urges Deeper Understanding of Asian History Beyond Colonial Narratives

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for a more profound and inclusive appreciation of Asian history, one that transcends colonial narratives and elevates local voices and heroes. He made this call during the launch of the “More Than A Day As A Tiger“ exhibition at the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia on Tuesday night.

Citing the legacy of Tipu Sultan of Mysore and his father, Haider Ali, as prime examples of resistance against British colonial expansion, Anwar urged Malaysians and the broader Asian community to embrace a narrative that highlights the courage, intellect, and cultural tolerance of regional leaders.

“History is not necessarily very kind,” Anwar said. “Our scholar Syed Hussein Alatas emphasized the need to reconstruct history because it cannot be written only by the winners or from the perspective of colonial rulers.”

Anwar highlighted how Malaysian history, like much of Asia’s, is often filtered through British colonial perspectives, which limits a fuller understanding of indigenous resistance and leadership. He referenced the works of scholars like Edward Said, who have critiqued the dominance of Western narratives in fields such as history, culture, and sociology.

The Prime Minister recounted his own pre-office visit to Mysore, India, where he was deeply moved by Tipu Sultan’s modest palace and his inclusive governance that protected Hindu temples while resisting colonial dominance. He also noted the Mysorean military’s advanced use of firearms and artillery, which shocked British forces during their early encounters.

“Tipu Sultan’s diplomatic efforts, including building ties with other Muslim and Hindu states and reaching out to the French to oppose British colonization, show the breadth of his leadership,” said Anwar.

He stressed that the “More Than A Day As A Tiger” exhibition is not merely an artistic or historical display, but an educational platform that aims to reshape public understanding of the anti-colonial struggle, particularly in India and the wider Muslim world.

Also present at the event were Anwar’s wife, Datuk Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail; Albukhary Foundation chairman Tan Sri Syed Mokhtar Al-Bukhary; Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai and his spouse; and various diplomatic representatives.

The exhibition features a wide array of artifacts, including rare manuscripts, weaponry, and artworks connected to Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan. It will be open to the public from August 6, 2025, until January 11, 2026, at Special Gallery 2 of the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia.

Anwar expressed hope that this exhibition will enrich Malaysians’ knowledge of key historical figures who have shaped Asia’s identity and inspire a broader, more authentic retelling of the region’s past.