Malaysia’s first archeologist shares how archaeology makes history come alive

Emeritus Prof. Dato’ Dr. Siti Zuraina Abdul Majid FASc, is a historian and Malaysia’s first-ever archaeologist. She was credited with developing the field of Malaysian archaeology and training of future generation archaeologists. Among her major discoveries which shed light on Malaysia’s prehistoric past include the 74,000-year-old Palaeolithic stone tool site and Kota Tampan in Lenggong, Perak, and the 10,000-year-old Perak Man in Lenggong too. Such outstanding excavation and exploration into the nation’s past also led Lenggong Valley to be recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Since the 1970s, Dr. Zuraina has been laying the foundation for the development of archaeology as a discipline in Malaysia. The impact of her findings eventually led USM to set up the Centre for Archaeological Research Malaysia. She has helped to produce a new generation of archaeologists at Master’s and PhD levels.

As the pioneer of a multidisciplinary research approach in the field of archaeology as well, she was asked to establish the Department of National Heritage, safeguarding Malaysia’s historical heritage for years.

In an inspiring conversation with #biztechasia Emeritus Professor Dato’ Dr. Siti Zuraina binti Abdul Majid FASC spoke about her love for archeology and the interesting finds she has discovered over the years. She also shines a spotlight on what is being done currently in Malaysia to bring archeology to the people and how corporations can play an active role in supporting the country’s archeology efforts.

Prof Dr. Siti also spoke about:

Her early experience as an archeologist and how this profession has changed over the years
Her role model that continues to inspire what she does
What winning the Merdeka Awards means to her and the work that she is doing