Tracing heritage, shaping the future: Merdeka Explorer 2026 empowers youth

Heritage should not merely be remembered; it should serve as a foundation for young people to shape the future through creativity, innovation and technological advancement.

This vision was brought to life through MERDEKA EXPLORER: Heritage Innovation Quest 2026 – Eksplorasi Merdeka: Jejak Warisan, Cipta Inovasi 2026, held today at the Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Memorial in Kuala Lumpur.

Held in conjunction with Malaysia’s National Month celebrations, the programme combined an appreciation of the nation’s history and heritage with Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), offering a fresh approach to nurturing patriotism among the younger generation.

The programme brought together university students and young people from various educational institutions in an experiential journey combining creativity, innovation, leadership and teamwork.

Activities included a heritage trail, STEAM and innovation challenges, batik canting, traditional games, Jalur Gemilang-themed cupcake decoration and other interactive activities designed to challenge participants’ creativity, knowledge and collaborative skills.

Deputy President of the Malaysia Robotics, AI & Automation Association (MYRAS) and Chairman of Pertubuhan Aspirasi Bahasa Melayu Malaysia, Dr Kamarazaman bin Yacob FCILT, said the way young people understand and appreciate independence must continue to evolve with the changing times.

He said today’s generation should not only learn about the nation’s struggle for independence but also understand the values behind that struggle and carry them forward through knowledge, creativity, innovation and technology.

“Independence is not merely about remembering the struggles of previous generations. Young people must understand our history and national identity, and then use knowledge, creativity and technology to build a better future for Malaysia.

“Heritage gives us our roots, while innovation gives us the courage to move forward. When the two are brought together, we nurture not only a generation that values history, but also one that has the confidence to shape the nation’s future,” he said.

He added that the STEAM approach was particularly relevant as it goes beyond science and technology by integrating arts, culture and creativity into problem-solving and innovation.

Amid the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and automation, young people must be prepared not only as users of technology, but also as creators, innovators and future leaders.

At the same time, technological progress must go hand in hand with the development of strong values, national identity, communication skills and an understanding of Malaysia’s history and heritage.

Young people and university students were also encouraged to join YouthRAI MYRAS, a platform aimed at expanding youth participation in robotics, AI, automation, innovation and future technologies.

YouthRAI is expected to create more opportunities for young people to build networks, exchange ideas and develop their talents through technology- and innovation-related activities.

The programme was also graced by YB Dato’ Sri Dr Ismail Sabri bin Yaakob, Malaysia’s ninth Prime Minister and Honorary Patron of Pertubuhan Aspirasi Bahasa Melayu Malaysia, who participated in a walkabout to view the activities and creative works of the participants.

His presence added significance to the programme, which culminated in the announcement of winners and the presentation of prizes and medals.

MERDEKA EXPLORER 2026 was jointly organised by Pertubuhan Aspirasi Bahasa Melayu Malaysia, Saito University College and UniKL MIMET, in collaboration with the Malaysia Robotics, AI & Automation Association (MYRAS) through Women in Future Technologies (WiFT) and YouthRAI.

The programme also involved students from the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM), Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia (UPTM), UniKL Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology (UniKL MIAT), Saito University College, UniKL MIMET and vocational colleges, with the support of strategic partners such as Xin Hwa, sponsors and volunteers.

The programme carries the message that the spirit of Merdeka should extend beyond celebrations and symbols. It should be translated into knowledge, creativity, innovation and the courage of young Malaysians to contribute meaningfully to the nation.

By bringing together heritage, patriotism and STEAM, MERDEKA EXPLORER 2026 aims to nurture a generation that not only understands its historical roots and national identity, but is also ready to create and lead Malaysia’s future.

Source: Pertubuhan Aspirasi Bahasa Melayu Malaysia