People Must Accept Reality Of History, Says Zam. Agreed, But Please Don't Rewrite Or Concoct It.

Malaysians must accept historical truths as a reality though they may be a bitter pill to swallow and hard to accept, said Information Minister Datuk Seri Zainuddin Maidin.

He said through the reality of history coupled with determination and seriousness, the people could overcome all the weaknesses and shortcomings they faced and treat them as valuable lessons to achieve success.

He said history was a chronology of true events which cannot be denied although sometimes they were a sequence spouting superficiality.

Nevertheless, history had taught the people to see real developments unfolding, paving the way for changes, he said here.

Zainuddin said Malaysia's five prime ministers worked hard to develop the nation and had always wanted the people to look back at history with sincerity though at times it was criticism of the own race.

"Their criticisms are aimed at the people to accept reality and be steadfast in their resolve to change by overcoming all obstacles," he said.

Zainuddin said over the last 50 years of independence, the country had gone through various phases -- colonialism, independence and development through implementation of various policies.

"All the phases have to be studied to find out the origins and the achievements made so far," he added. (Bernama)

***** If indeed the history he is talking about is the whole truth then there is no problem in everyone accepting it even if they are not in agreement with it. The problem comes when there is the perception that history is being 'bent' or concocted to support one viewpoint or group. Then things become a little complicated where the government promotes its version of history which does not enjoy some people's support and over time the historical accounts lose credibility. Simply put history should not be manipulated to serve one's ulterior motives.
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