It Is Illegal To Transfer Or Export Any National Heritage Without A License

The “finders keepers” policy does not apply to those who come across artefacts of cultural value, as far as the National Heritage Department is concerned. thestar.com.my

The Heritage Act 2005 clearly states that it is an offence to transfer, demolish, remove, alter, renovate or export any national heritage, enforcement itself is minimal. thestar.com.my

Those found guilty under the Act face a jail term of up to five years or a fine of up to RM50,000 or both. thestar.com.my

A department official said Section 47 of the National Heritage Act 2005 states that finders should notify a commissioner of heritage or a district officer to declare their find. thestar.com.my

If the item is found to be a heritage artefact, the commissioner will take it for safekeeping. He can also, at his discretion, pay a reasonable compensation to the finder, landowner, or the informant. thestar.com.my