A total of 103 students from Universiti Kuala Lumpur British Malaysian Institute (UniKL BMI) participated in the inaugural Program Bermalam di Muzium Bersama Belia at the National Museum, gaining a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Malaysia’s rich history, heritage, and multicultural identity.
Organised by the Jabatan Muzium Malaysia (JMM) in conjunction with the Central Zone Unity Week 2026 celebration, the programme marked a new chapter for the long-running Program Bermalam di Muzium by extending participation to higher education students and youth.
Built around the concept of experiential learning, the initiative transformed the museum into a living classroom where participants engaged directly with historical exhibits and cultural heritage in an interactive and informal setting.
The programme aimed to strengthen appreciation for the nation’s history while fostering patriotism, identity, and unity among young Malaysians from diverse backgrounds.
According to JMM, the programme was designed to bring museums closer to the younger generation and encourage greater interest in national heritage through meaningful and engaging experiences beyond conventional classroom learning.
The event also featured the participation of finalists and former contestants of the Unduk Ngadau Lembah Klang 2026 pageant, adding a vibrant cultural dimension that showcased Malaysia’s diverse traditions and heritage.
For many UniKL BMI students, the overnight experience offered a fresh perspective on museums and their role in preserving the nation’s story. Participants described the programme as both educational and enjoyable, providing an opportunity to experience the museum environment in a completely different way.
The expansion of the programme to include youth from institutions of higher learning aligns with the Ministry of National Unity’s aspiration to strengthen youth engagement in the nation’s museum ecosystem.
Previously focused primarily on schoolchildren, the initiative now recognises university students as an important group in shaping the future appreciation and preservation of Malaysia’s heritage.
The programme is part of broader efforts to revitalise museums as dynamic and relevant spaces for learning, innovation, and community engagement.
