The Strategic Role of Museums in Preserving History and Strengthening Public Cultural Literacy

Subhan Nur (Museum Khazanah Melayu H. Subhan Nur Sambas-Kalimantan Barat)

Aimmah: Social Sciences Journal
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2024)

This study discusses the strategic role of museums in preserving history and strengthening people's cultural literacy, especially in the context of modern education and the development of educational tourism. Museums are no longer seen solely as a place to store and care historical objects, but have evolved into an educational space that is able to provide an engaging, contextual, and meaningful learning experience for the community. Museums have great potential in increasing people's understanding of history, culture, art, and science. Through optimizing the function of museums in formal and non-formal education, their existence can contribute more broadly to the formation of knowledge, historical awareness, and cultural literacy of the community in the midst of the dynamics of modern life. This study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive type of research. Research data is obtained through library research by examining various relevant sources, including books, scientific articles, news, and various information available through digital sources. These various sources are used to obtain conceptual foundations and information that support discussions about the function and role of museums in preserving history and cultural education of the community. The data obtained are then analyzed descriptively and interpretively by identifying various relevant ideas, connecting information between sources, and then formulating a systematic understanding in accordance with the research objectives. The results of the study show that museums have a broader function than just collecting, storing, and caring for artifacts, artworks, and historical objects. Museums also serve as a source of knowledge and learning space that allows people to understand history, art, culture, and the development of civilization in a more concrete way. The development of museum functions shows a paradigm shift in viewing cultural heritage and the relationship between museums and society. Modern museums no longer place visitors as passive recipients of information, but encourage more active engagement, participation, interaction, and learning experiences. Thus, museums can become one of the strategic institutions in preserving history, transmitting cultural values, and strengthening people's literacy and cultural awareness.