KUCHING – Final preparations for the 2nd Asian Cultural Heritage Youth Forum have been completed following a visit by a delegation from Swinburne Innovation Malaysia Sdn Bhd (SWIM) to Fudan University, China from 27 to 30 August 2024.
This event, co-hosted by both institutions and supported by the China Foundation for Cultural Heritage Conservation and Business Events Sarawak, is set to take place from 1 to 5 October 2024 at the Borneo Cultures Museum in Kuching, Malaysia.
Over 100 participants, including students, academics and heritage conservators from various Asian countries, have registered to attend the forum. The event will focus on bringing together young voices and experienced professionals to exchange ideas and strategies on the integration of traditional knowledge and innovative technology to support cultural heritage conservation.
Led by Professor Wallace Wong Shung Hui, Chief Executive Officer of SWIM, the Swinburne delegation was received by Professor Huang Yang, Professor Sun Yunlong, Professor Ba ZhaoXiang, Professor Zhang ChaoZi and Associate Professor Zhen Danni from Fudan University’s Department of History. In addition to confirming the forum’s agenda, both parties explored potential collaborations in research and cultural exchange.
Professor Zhang ChaoZi from Fudan University and Dr Bibiana Lim from Swinburne Sarawak are serving as Co-Chairs of the forum, representing both institutions.
Reflecting on the forum’s significance, Professor Wallace Wong remarked, “South East Asia and China share deep cultural ties, rooted in centuries of trading and migration, which have shaped the region’s rich and diverse heritage. Nurturing the next generation of leaders in heritage conservation is essential to preserving these traditions.”
“Through this youth forum, we aim to empower young minds to safeguard these cultural treasures, ensuring they continue to inspire and educate future generations,” he said.
Professor Huang Yang (left), Dean of Fudan University’s Department of History, presents a memento to Professor Wallace Wong.
The Swinburne delegation also visited several cultural heritage sites in Shanghai, including Zhujiajiao Water Town, Yuyuan Bazaar and the Bund. These visits highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage amid urban development, a theme that will be emphasised during the upcoming Forum.
The 2nd Asian Cultural Heritage Youth Forum will spotlight the region’s diverse heritage and encourage dialogue on conservation efforts among the next generation of heritage professionals.
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