00:00 "The lack of recognition for key historical figures like journalist A. Samad Ismail in
00:06 Malaysia's educational curriculum indicates deep flaws within the system," says constitutional
00:12 lawyer Dominic Puducherry.
00:14 "This oversight deprives students of a comprehensive understanding of their nation's history and
00:20 its key figures."
00:22 Taking part in an event in remembrance of Samad today, Puducherry said there is a need
00:27 for substantial educational reform to address these gaps.
00:32 Puducherry said, "Understanding history influences current political and economic decisions,
00:37 and gaps in historical knowledge can lead to less informed decisions and policies that
00:42 do not reflect the nation's nuanced history."
00:46 Puducherry also highlighted Samad's crucial role in drafting a people's constitution,
00:51 saying it remains unacknowledged by the educational system and was overlooked by the colonial
00:56 powers aimed at defining citizenship in a way that transcended communal divides.
01:02 He said that within that constitution, there is a definition of citizenship stating that
01:07 all citizens are recognised as Malaysians.
01:11 Samad was born a century ago on April 18, 1924.
01:15 He died on September 4, 2008 from lung infection.
01:19 He exemplified the essence of journalistic bravery with his unyielding resolve.
01:25 you
