[MSN] Malaysia - Better protection for Sabah's historical monuments and artefacts

[Museum Security Network Mailinglist]

Better protection for Sabah's historical monuments and artefacts
15 Aug 2006
Joniston Bangkuai at the Sabah Legislative Assembly

KOTA KINABALU, Tues: SABAH's historical monuments, buildings and 
artefacts would now be better protected with the approval of an 
amendment to the Antiquities and Treasure Trove Enactment 1977.

The amendment, among others, provide for a stiffer penalty against 
offenders and empowering the State Museum Director to appoint 
enforcement officers.

Those found guilty of destroying or damaging historical monuments or 
buildings are now liable to a fine not exceeding RM50,000 or 
imprisonment not exceeding five years or both.

Previously, the penalty for such an offence was a fine of RM2,000 or 
imprisonment for one year.

The penalty for those found to be in illegal possession of ancient 
artefacts have been enhanced from a fine of RM1,000 or three times the 
market value of the antiquity to a fine not exceeding RM50,000 or 
imprisonment not exceeding five years.

Tabling the Bill for the amendment, Assistant Tourism, Culture and 
Environment Minister Datuk Karim Bujang said it is now mandatory for 
ancient monuments or historical sites to be kept in a state of good 
repair by their owners.

http://www.nst.com.my