Selamat Eid al-Adha! We begin this week with a public holiday for our Muslim readers. As for me, I’ve just wrapped up SPAFACON2024, the largest conference dedicated to Southeast Asian archaeology and cultural heritage. The event was a great success, with over 350 participants and past week was filled with paper presentations, workshops and side events. Despite the busy-ness, I still managed to keep up with the news and put together this morning’s edition of the newsletter.
First, let's journey to Singapore, where AI technology is promising to make waves in archaeology. Researchers are leveraging advanced AI tools to decipher the enigmatic Singapore Stone. At this stage I’m a little skeptical if any new insights can be made, but if this groundbreaking effort can unlock a translation, that would be great!
Moving on to Cambodia, significant restoration work is underway at two iconic sites. The Beng Mealea temple's eastern causeway is being meticulously restored, addressing structural damage and preserving this 12th-century marvel for future generations. At the same time, the similarly-dated Angkor Wat's historic Naga balustrades are receiving much-needed attention following recent rainfall damage. Experts are carefully restoring these architectural elements to maintain their historical integrity.
In Indonesia, the fate of Sriwijaya artifacts housed in the former South Sumatra Archaeology Center in Palembang has sparked an outcry as these valuable relics are being transferred to BRIN Cibinong in West Java to ensure their protection. Some locals feel that the Sriwijayan artefacts should stay in their area of origin, but the move is also appropriate due to Archaeology Center being absorbed into the national research agency (BRIN).
Lastly, we turn to Vietnam, where comparative research is shedding light on the similarities between Hanoi's Imperial Citadel of Thang Long and Beijing's Forbidden City. This collaboration between Vietnamese and Chinese archaeologists offers fresh insights into ancient palatial constructions, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation of their intertwined histories.
These stories are just the proverbial topsoil of news in this week's edition. Read on to explore the latest research, restoration projects, and cultural celebrations across Southeast Asia. If you found this newsletter to be useful, please share it with your friends and colleagues, and also consider supporting it by Buying Me a Coffee.
And now, on to the news:
Contents
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Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are five of the most popular stories from this week:
Controversial Restoration Alters 500-Year-Old Lanna Giant at Wat Umong
via Thairath, 07 June 2024: The restoration of a 500-year-old Lanna giant sculpture at Wat Umong in Chiang Mai has sparked controversy. A Thai professor criticized the restoration for covering the ancient giant in new cement, erasing its historical value. The professor emphasized the importance of adhering to international conservation principles to preserve the original craftsmanship. The public and responsible agencies are called to account for the loss of this significant cultural heritage.
Bangkok MRT Hosts Siam Heritage Event: June 14-16
via The Nation, 08 June 2024: Bangkok’s MRT operator, is hosting “Siam Heritage from 3 Eras” from June 14-16 at the Bangkok National Museum. The event features exhibitions on Thailand’s ancient kingdoms, workshops, Khon dance performances, and booths selling food and historical books. The first 1,000 visitors with an MRT card get free museum admission, and a free shuttle service is available from Sanam Chai station.
I study artefacts left in prehistoric caves
via Nature, 27 May 2024: Basran Burhan, a PhD researcher at Griffith University, studies prehistoric caves in Sulawesi, Indonesia, where he helped date the oldest piece of figurative art to 43,900 years ago. His research in the Leang Bulu Bettue cave uncovers artifacts like ochre, animal bones, stone tools, and jewelry, aiming to understand the people who created the ancient cave art.
Can AI Crack the Singapore Stone’s Undeciphered Writing?
via The Conversation, 10 June 2024: The Singapore Stone is being studied by researchers at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University using AI technology. The stone’s unique writing system has puzzled experts for centuries, but new efforts with an AI program, Read-y Grammarian, aim to decode the lost language and reveal its historical secrets.
Penang’s Fort Cornwallis Transforms into Historical Museum
via The Star, 12 June 2024: Fort Cornwallis in Penang, a historical cornerstone, is being revitalized with ongoing archaeological and conservation efforts. The Fort Cornwallis Storage Rooms Museology project will convert disused bunkers into museum spaces, showcasing over 30,000 unearthed artifacts. Scheduled to open by late 2024, the museum will chronologically present the fort’s rich history and its significance in Penang’s growth.
Featured Books and Recommendations - Cambodia
[Back to Contents]
Some of the links below are affiliate links which mean I may get a commission if you click on them and make a purchase.
Angkor's Temples in the Modern Era: War, Pride and Tourist Dollars
by John Burgess
The Angkorian World by Mitch Hendrickson, Miriam T. Stark, and Damian Evans (eds.)
Preah Bot: Buddhist Painted Scrolls in Cambodia by Vittorio Roveda
Photography in Cambodia: 1866 to the Present by Nicholas Coffill
Revealing Krishna: Essays on the History, Context, and Conservation of Krishna Lifting Mount Govardhan from Phnom Da by Sonya Rhie Mace et al.
New Research
[Back to Contents]
If you have a newly-published paper that you wish to publicise, contact me and I’ll add it into the next newsletter.
via World Archaeology, 06 June 2024: Recent scholarship and fieldwork from 2017 to 2023 at Angkor Thom reveal that ancient Cambodian religious sites and statues have maintained spiritual significance through ancestral animist practices, despite their disassociation from original Brahmano-Buddhist identities. This ongoing sacredness is evidenced by the deposition of statues and localized acts of place-making near older ruins, showcasing the dynamic reidentification, reuse, and transformation of these ancient elements over time.
Announcements
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
Apply Now: Alphawood Online Scholarship for Asian Art Studies
The Alphawood Online Scholarship supports students pursuing the SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art via a new online pathway. Covering tuition fees and living costs, this scholarship allows scholars to study remotely in their home countries and attend a two-week summer school in London. Applications are open until August 30, 2024, with the program beginning in January 2025.
Join the WHV 2024 Campaign: Volunteer for Global Heritage
via UNESCO: The UNESCO World Heritage Centre announces the World Heritage Volunteers 2024 Campaign, themed “Working on the Future”. From April to December 2024, 90 projects across 41 countries will involve young volunteers in preserving cultural and natural heritage sites. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the World Heritage Education Programme, the initiative fosters youth empowerment and community involvement. This year, there are opportunities in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
Upcoming Events
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
27 June 2024: Cultural Developments on the Khorat Plateau: Ancient Societies and Networks of Exchange (Bangkok, Thailand)
12-13 September 2024: ASEAN Museum Forum 2024 (Bangkok, Thailand)
23-26 September 2024: International Forum on the Spice Route (Jakarta, Indonesia)
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
Apply Now: Alphawood Online Scholarship for Asian Art Studies
The Alphawood Online Scholarship supports students pursuing the SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art via a new online pathway. Covering tuition fees and living costs, this scholarship allows scholars to study remotely in their home countries and attend a two-week summer school in London. Applications are open until August 30, 2024, with the program beginning in January 2025.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Experts Reassemble Scattered Stones at Phnom Bakheng Temple
via Khmer Times, 12 June 2024: A team of 10 stone experts is restoring Phnom Bakheng Temple by identifying and reassembling scattered stones at their original locations. Their meticulous efforts ensure the preservation and accurate reconstruction of this historic site.
Restoration Begins on Beng Mealea Temple’s Eastern Causeway
via Khmer Times, 12 June 2024: Cambodia is set to restore the eastern causeway of the 12th century Beng Mealea temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park. The project, funded by the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund, involves archaeological excavation to address structural damage.
Main Water Gates at Angkor Site Undergoing Repairs
via Khmer Times, 09 June 2024: The APSARA National Authority’s water management team is repairing and renovating over 200 main water gates at the Angkor site to ensure they function properly during the upcoming rainy season. This maintenance is crucial to prevent flooding and manage water flow in the temple area and Siem Reap city.
Siem Reap’s Must-Visit: Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum
via Phnom Penh Post, 07 June 2024: The Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum in Siem Reap, managed by the APSARA National Authority, showcases over 300 significant Khmer artifacts, including ancient Buddha statues and burial items, offering visitors deep insights into the Khmer Empire’s history. Established in 2008, the museum continues to grow its collection with newly discovered artifacts. Open Tuesday to Sunday, the museum provides an educational experience essential for understanding the historical context of the Angkor temples.
Restoration Begins on Angkor Wat’s Historic Naga Balustrades
via Khmer Times, 07 June 2024: Experts from the APSARA National Authority’s Department of Conservation are meticulously restoring the stairs and Naga balustrades on the ground floor of Angkor Wat. Recent rainfall damage underscores the importance of this work. The restoration process involves carefully lifting, cleaning, and strengthening the balustrades and pedestals to preserve their historical and architectural integrity. This follows the successful restoration of the Naga balustrade on the east side in late 2023.
[Talk] The Archaeology of Sites and Landscapes: Papers in Honour of Damian Evans
If you’re in Bangkok for SPAFACON2024, you may also want to stop by the Siam Society on 13 June for this special symposium on honour of Damian Evans with presentations from Christophe Pottier, Pare Patcharaporn Ngernkerd, Jean-Baptiste Chevance, Mitch Hendrickson and Martin Polkinghorne.
via World Archaeology, 06 June 2024: Recent scholarship and fieldwork from 2017 to 2023 at Angkor Thom reveal that ancient Cambodian religious sites and statues have maintained spiritual significance through ancestral animist practices, despite their disassociation from original Brahmano-Buddhist identities. This ongoing sacredness is evidenced by the deposition of statues and localized acts of place-making near older ruins, showcasing the dynamic reidentification, reuse, and transformation of these ancient elements over time.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Jakarta Prepares Traditional Festivities for 497th Anniversary
via Antara, 13 June 2024: For Jakarta’s 497th anniversary on June 22, 2024, the provincial government has organized a grand celebration at the National Monument, featuring traditional orchestra gambang keromong, horse carriages, and ontel bicycles. The event will include performances from various cultural groups and prominent Jakarta figures, aiming to engage the public in celebrating the city’s heritage.
Netherlands Exhibition Highlights Dayak Cultural Heritage
via Antara, 04 June 2024: The “Long Ears Through the Lens” exhibition in the Netherlands showcased the Dayak long-ear tradition, featuring cultural performances, a short film, and dialogues on identity. The event, attended by around 19,000 visitors, aimed to preserve and promote the Dayak heritage among the Dutch community and Indonesian diaspora.
I study artefacts left in prehistoric caves
via Nature, 27 May 2024: Basran Burhan, a PhD researcher at Griffith University, studies prehistoric caves in Sulawesi, Indonesia, where he helped date the oldest piece of figurative art to 43,900 years ago. His research in the Leang Bulu Bettue cave uncovers artifacts like ochre, animal bones, stone tools, and jewelry, aiming to understand the people who created the ancient cave art.
Historic Sriwijaya Artifacts Transferred to BRIN Cibinong
via Kompas, 09 June 2024: The relocation of artifacts from the former South Sumatra Archaeological Center to BRIN Cibinong aims to preserve Sriwijaya-era relics amidst concerns about Palembang’s commitment to heritage preservation. Despite local protests, the move seeks to ensure the artifacts’ safety, highlighting issues in local heritage management.
Indonesia Seeks Malaysia’s Support for UNESCO Spice Route Bid
via Antara, 07 June 2024: Indonesia’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology is seeking Malaysia’s support for UNESCO world heritage status for the historic Spice Route. This effort is part of the “Cultural Goodwill of the Spice Route” cruise program, which will visit Malacca, Malaysia, among other destinations. The initiative aims to promote shared cultural heritage and strengthen bilateral ties. Since 2016, Indonesia has actively pursued recognition for the Spice Route, with increased efforts through cultural voyages and festivals highlighting the route’s historical significance.
Join the WHV 2024 Campaign: Volunteer for Global Heritage
via UNESCO: The UNESCO World Heritage Centre announces the World Heritage Volunteers 2024 Campaign, themed “Working on the Future”. From April to December 2024, 90 projects across 41 countries will involve young volunteers in preserving cultural and natural heritage sites. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the World Heritage Education Programme, the initiative fosters youth empowerment and community involvement. This year, there are opportunities in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
Ownership Disputes: Drifting Shipwrecks and Their Cargo
via CO-OP blog, 06 June 2024: PhD candidate Zainab Tahir examines the complexities of ownership and preservation of artifacts from shipwrecks and looted sacred sites. It highlights issues like economic interests, national laws, and international politics that overshadow heritage conservation. The contentious restoration of artifacts, such as the Plai Bat temple statues and Song Dynasty ceramics, underscores the need for respectful and knowledgeable preservation methods.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
Selangor Gallery Showcases Miniature Melaka Sultanate
via Borneo Bulletin, 13 June 2024: A miniature art gallery in Selangor showcases a 13-meter diorama depicting 15th-century Melaka, featuring over 700 miniatures of traditional attire, palaces, and trading ships. Created by diverse artisans, this exhibit highlights the Melaka Sultanate’s golden age and its historic trade relationship with China. The display marks the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations.
Penang’s Fort Cornwallis Transforms into Historical Museum
via The Star, 12 June 2024: Fort Cornwallis in Penang, a historical cornerstone, is being revitalized with ongoing archaeological and conservation efforts. The Fort Cornwallis Storage Rooms Museology project will convert disused bunkers into museum spaces, showcasing over 30,000 unearthed artifacts. Scheduled to open by late 2024, the museum will chronologically present the fort’s rich history and its significance in Penang’s growth.
Indonesia Seeks Malaysia’s Support for UNESCO Spice Route Bid
via Antara, 07 June 2024: Indonesia’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology is seeking Malaysia’s support for UNESCO world heritage status for the historic Spice Route. This effort is part of the “Cultural Goodwill of the Spice Route” cruise program, which will visit Malacca, Malaysia, among other destinations. The initiative aims to promote shared cultural heritage and strengthen bilateral ties. Since 2016, Indonesia has actively pursued recognition for the Spice Route, with increased efforts through cultural voyages and festivals highlighting the route’s historical significance.
Join the WHV 2024 Campaign: Volunteer for Global Heritage
via UNESCO: The UNESCO World Heritage Centre announces the World Heritage Volunteers 2024 Campaign, themed “Working on the Future”. From April to December 2024, 90 projects across 41 countries will involve young volunteers in preserving cultural and natural heritage sites. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the World Heritage Education Programme, the initiative fosters youth empowerment and community involvement. This year, there are opportunities in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Dumaguete Diocese Advocates for Strong Heritage Conservation
via PNA, 11 June 2024: The Diocese of Dumaguete emphasizes the importance of heritage conservation as part of Filipino identity, aligning with the Independence Day theme of “Freedom, Future, History.” Initiatives include ongoing conservation efforts and the upcoming NHCP seminar in Siquijor, focusing on preserving historical structures and cultural practices.
Balikbayan Homecoming: Filipino Artifacts and Photos at Peabody Museum
via ABS-CBN News, 08 June 2024: Harvard’s Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology is showcasing Filipino artifacts, including a Bagobo trinket bag and Ifugao food bowl, as part of its extensive collection of over 8,000 items. The exhibit, “Balikbayan Homecoming,” also features 5,700 historical photos, providing insights into the Philippines’ pre-U.S. colonial past.
Intramuros’ Rich History Celebrated at New Tourist Center
via Manila Standard, 10 June 2024: First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos inaugurated the Centro de Turismo Intramuros, a new tourist center in Manila’s historic walled city. Opening to the public on June 12, this center will offer free access and showcase Intramuros’ rich history and cultural heritage through exhibits and archaeological finds.
Lecture on the supposed Pre-Colonial Kingdom of the Philippines
via Manila Bulletin, 07 June 2024: A recent lecture by Baldomero M. Olivera’s on the Kalaga Putuan Crescent, a supposed Austronesian maritime kingdom that thrived in the southeastern Philippines for over 13 centuries was presented at the National Museum. It is important to note that Olivera is not an archaeologist or historian (a red flag!), and that there is no evidence for a unified kingdom that lasted for 1300 years during that time period.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
Traditional Fujian Ship Fu Ning Sets Sail Again
via Straits Times, 04 June 2024: Fu Ning, the world’s largest traditional Chinese wooden sailing boat, was constructed between 2015 and 2019 under the leadership of Chinese businessman Lin Chang Jiu. Inspired by Admiral Zheng He’s voyages, the ship showcases ancient watertight-bulkhead technology and aims to preserve and promote Chinese maritime heritage. Fu Ning was a highlight of the 2024 Singapore Yachting Festival and plans to retrace the historic Maritime Silk Road.
Can AI Crack the Singapore Stone’s Undeciphered Writing?
via The Conversation, 10 June 2024: The Singapore Stone is being studied by researchers at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University using AI technology. The stone’s unique writing system has puzzled experts for centuries, but new efforts with an AI program, Read-y Grammarian, aim to decode the lost language and reveal its historical secrets.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Nan to Twin with Luang Prabang for Cultural Tourism Boost
via Bangkok Post, 12 June 2024: Thailand’s government aims to nominate Nan province for Unesco World Heritage status, focusing on its archaeological discoveries, ethnic diversity, and local wisdom. Plans include promoting cultural tourism with Luang Prabang, upgrading Nan airport, and boosting regional tourism and local economies.
Fine Arts Deptartment Defends Restoration of Ancient Lanna Giants
via Khaosod, 10 June 2024: The Fine Arts Department has defended its restoration of 400-year-old Lanna-style giant statues at Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham in Chiang Mai, which faced criticism for its cement coating. The department emphasized that the restoration aimed to protect and preserve the statues, considering historical evidence and the need for durable preservation methods.
Discover the Royal Legacy of Deves Palace’s Grand Villa
via Thai PBS, 08 June 2024: The Grand Villa of Deves Palace, built nearly 130 years ago during King Rama IV’s reign, has reopened as a cultural museum. Originally a residence for Queen Sirikit’s ancestors, it features European-influenced architecture by Italian architect Carlo Allegri. Now owned by the Aniruth-deva family, the villa showcases its rich heritage through artifacts, décor, and architecture. Visitors can explore its history via guided tours.
Bangkok MRT Hosts Siam Heritage Event: June 14-16
via The Nation, 08 June 2024: Bangkok’s MRT operator, is hosting “Siam Heritage from 3 Eras” from June 14-16 at the Bangkok National Museum. The event features exhibitions on Thailand’s ancient kingdoms, workshops, Khon dance performances, and booths selling food and historical books. The first 1,000 visitors with an MRT card get free museum admission, and a free shuttle service is available from Sanam Chai station.
Controversial Restoration Alters 500-Year-Old Lanna Giant at Wat Umong
via Thairath, 07 June 2024: The restoration of a 500-year-old Lanna giant sculpture at Wat Umong in Chiang Mai has sparked controversy. A Thai professor criticized the restoration for covering the ancient giant in new cement, erasing its historical value. The professor emphasized the importance of adhering to international conservation principles to preserve the original craftsmanship. The public and responsible agencies are called to account for the loss of this significant cultural heritage.
Join the WHV 2024 Campaign: Volunteer for Global Heritage
via UNESCO: The UNESCO World Heritage Centre announces the World Heritage Volunteers 2024 Campaign, themed “Working on the Future”. From April to December 2024, 90 projects across 41 countries will involve young volunteers in preserving cultural and natural heritage sites. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the World Heritage Education Programme, the initiative fosters youth empowerment and community involvement. This year, there are opportunities in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
[Talk] The Archaeology of Sites and Landscapes: Papers in Honour of Damian Evans
If you’re in Bangkok for SPAFACON2024, you may also want to stop by the Siam Society on 13 June for this special symposium on honour of Damian Evans with presentations from Christophe Pottier, Pare Patcharaporn Ngernkerd, Jean-Baptiste Chevance, Mitch Hendrickson and Martin Polkinghorne.
Ownership Disputes: Drifting Shipwrecks and Their Cargo
via CO-OP blog, 06 June 2024: PhD candidate Zainab Tahir examines the complexities of ownership and preservation of artifacts from shipwrecks and looted sacred sites. It highlights issues like economic interests, national laws, and international politics that overshadow heritage conservation. The contentious restoration of artifacts, such as the Plai Bat temple statues and Song Dynasty ceramics, underscores the need for respectful and knowledgeable preservation methods.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Preserving a 581-Year Legacy of the Thanh Lieu Woodblocks
via Vietnam Net, 12 June 2024: The “Thanh Lieu Woodblock – Journey to revive a craft village” project aims to preserve and innovate Thanh Lieu’s 581-year-old woodblock engraving and printing tradition. Collaborating with local artisans, the project includes workshops on traditional techniques and showcases Thanh Lieu’s renowned craftsmanship, with roots tracing back to the Later Le Dynasty and UNESCO-recognized heritage.
Dragon Symbols of the Nguyễn Dynasty on Display in Huế
via Viet Nam News, 12 June 2024: The Kiến Trung Palace in Huế is hosting an exhibition featuring 56 ceramic and gold-plated dragons by People’s Artist Trần Độ, inspired by Nguyễn Dynasty seals. Part of Huế Festival Week 2024, this exhibit highlights Độ’s dedication to traditional Vietnamese art and the cultural significance of dragons, symbolizing strength and wisdom.
Vintage Photos Capture Early 20th Century Vietnamese Culture
via Vietnam Net, 08 June 2024: The book ‘Outline of Vietnamese Cultural History,’ first published in 1938, features rare images of Vietnamese daily life over a century ago. The illustrations, sourced from contemporary magazines, depict scenes such as bustling markets, traditional games, and cultural ceremonies, providing a vivid snapshot of Vietnam’s cultural history during the early 20th century.
Explore Vietnam’s History at the Library of Congress
via Vietnam Net, 08 June 2024: The Library of Congress in Washington D.C. houses rare and valuable documents on Vietnam, including historical texts like “Dai Viet Su Ky Toan Thu” and “Truyen Kieu.” The collection features over 35,000 Vietnamese documents, 5,000 maps, and more than 500 documentaries on the Vietnam War. This repository serves as a significant resource for researchers globally, preserving works by historical figures like President Ho Chi Minh.
Thua Thien-Hue Unveils Vietnam’s First Metaverse Cultural Exhibition
via Vietnam Net, 07 June 2024: The Hue Monuments Conservation Centre, in collaboration with Phygital Labs, has launched Vietnam’s first metaverse cultural exhibition, featuring ten digitally identified Nguyen Dynasty artifacts from the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum. This innovative project integrates NFC chips and Nomion technology for interactive experiences, supported by Apple Vision Pro.
Imperial Citadels: China and Vietnam’s Shared Heritage Explored
via China Daily, 07 June 2024: The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi, a former seat of Vietnamese power, presents a rich opportunity for Sino-Vietnamese cooperation. Chinese archaeologist Wu Wei, invited by the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, explores its links to China’s Forbidden City. This collaboration highlights the shared heritage and cross-cultural influences between the two nations, offering fresh insights into ancient palatial constructions and fostering mutual understanding.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
Apply Now: Alphawood Online Scholarship for Asian Art Studies
The Alphawood Online Scholarship supports students pursuing the SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art via a new online pathway. Covering tuition fees and living costs, this scholarship allows scholars to study remotely in their home countries and attend a two-week summer school in London. Applications are open until August 30, 2024, with the program beginning in January 2025.
Traditional Fujian Ship Fu Ning Sets Sail Again
via Straits Times, 04 June 2024: Fu Ning, the world’s largest traditional Chinese wooden sailing boat, was constructed between 2015 and 2019 under the leadership of Chinese businessman Lin Chang Jiu. Inspired by Admiral Zheng He’s voyages, the ship showcases ancient watertight-bulkhead technology and aims to preserve and promote Chinese maritime heritage. Fu Ning was a highlight of the 2024 Singapore Yachting Festival and plans to retrace the historic Maritime Silk Road.
Sri Lanka’s Coastal Gem of Forts and Flavors”
via New Indian Express, 09 June 2024: Galle, a historic coastal town in Sri Lanka, captivates visitors with its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant culinary scene. The Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese and later enhanced by the Dutch, offers stunning sea views and a walk through its charming streets reveals a blend of ancient houses, boutiques, and restaurants.
Imperial Citadels: China and Vietnam’s Shared Heritage Explored
via China Daily, 07 June 2024: The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi, a former seat of Vietnamese power, presents a rich opportunity for Sino-Vietnamese cooperation. Chinese archaeologist Wu Wei, invited by the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, explores its links to China’s Forbidden City. This collaboration highlights the shared heritage and cross-cultural influences between the two nations, offering fresh insights into ancient palatial constructions and fostering mutual understanding.