Sculptures Reclaimed, Skeletons Revealed
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 19 - 25 August 2024
Mingalabar! This week's newsletter honours the enduring legacy of Southeast Asia's cultural heritage, highlighting both its preservation and the remarkable individuals dedicated to its study. We begin by paying tribute to the late Dr. Pierre Pichard, the esteemed French architect and archaeologist whose monumental work, the Inventory of Monuments at Pagan (Bagan), remains a cornerstone in the study of Bagan and guiding countless researchers and conservation efforts at this iconic site.
In Cambodia, the spotlight shines on the repatriation of 70 looted sculptures from the United States. This return, celebrated with much fervor, underscores the vital cooperation between Cambodia and the international community in preserving heritage. Adding to the country's restored cultural wealth, a newly discovered dvarapala statue from the Bayon period was uncovered at Banteay Prei Temple, likely buried when the gate structure collapsed.
Meanwhile, in Malaysia, over 71,000 artifacts as well as human remains were uncovered in the Nenggiri Valley ahead of a dam construction project, offering a rare glimpse into the region's prehistoric past. These finds, are part of a salvage operation involving 13 affected caves, and are thought to be between 14,000 - 16,000 years old, which would put them older than the Perak Man.
Vietnam also makes headlines with a series of initiatives focused on revitalizing its museum sector, particularly in Da Nang. The city is investing in both infrastructure and innovative digital solutions to preserve and present its cultural heritage, ensuring that museums like the Museum of Cham Sculpture remain vibrant hubs of cultural exchange and education. The progress comes with challenges, as museums in Da Nang are also facing a manpower crunch with a shortage of specialised staff, where the skills are in high demand but salaries are low.
Before we dive into these stories, a heartfelt thank you to Professor Miriam Stark for becoming a supporter on Buy Me A Coffee. Neakrou is a longtime supporter of my work, and her steadfast encouragement has been instrumental in furthering our shared passion for Southeast Asian archaeology. Thank you very much! On that note, I have started my low-key revamp of the website - my intent is to turn the website into a more comprehensive resource and reference page, while focusing on the news updates through this newsletter and social media. I welcome your suggestions on what you’d would like to see on the website!
Read on for more:
Contents
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Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are five of the most popular stories from this week:
Professors Leonard and Barbara Andaya to Discuss Southeast Asian History
On September 25, 2024, Professors Leonard and Barbara Andaya will present a lecture at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore on the upcoming Second Cambridge History of Southeast Asia. The Andayas, key editors of the project, will share their insights on its conceptualization, with the publication expected in early 2026. The hybrid lecture will take place in Lecture Theatre 3, Gaia, and is open for online participation.Da Nang Museums Seek Solutions to Retain Skilled Workforce
via Da Nang Online, 22 August 2024: Da Nang museums are struggling to retain staff due to inadequate salaries and a shortage of specialized training, despite the critical role museum workers play in preserving cultural heritage. The Museum of Cham Sculpture, Da Nang Museum, and Fine Arts Museum face significant staffing challenges, with employees often required to perform multiple roles. Museum directors are calling for better compensation and policies to attract and retain skilled professionals in this multidisciplinary field.Temple Run Recreation Sparks Conservation Concerns at Angkor
via Bloomberg/Straits Times, 23 August 2024: A viral TikTok trend where tourists recreate the "Temple Run" video game at Cambodia's Angkor Wat has sparked concerns among conservationists about potential damage to the 900-year-old ruins. Videos of tourists running and jumping through the temples have garnered millions of views, but experts warn that this behavior threatens the site's cultural and spiritual significance. While some argue the trend boosts tourism, others emphasize the need to balance visitor engagement with the preservation of heritage.Nenggiri Valley Yields 71,000 Artefacts Ahead of Dam Project
via The Malay Mail, 22 August 2024: Over 71,000 prehistoric artefacts, including 16 skeletons, stone tools, and pottery fragments, have been discovered and removed from Nenggiri Valley, Kelantan, ahead of a hydroelectric dam construction. The most significant find, a 14,000-16,000-year-old human skeleton, was uncovered in Gua Keledung Kecil. The artefacts will be preserved by the National Heritage Department, and some will be displayed in a mini gallery by Tenaga Nasional Berhad.
See also: The StarBayon-Style Gate Guardian Sculpture Found at Banteay Prei Temple
via Phnom Penh Post, 22 August 2024: A sandstone "gate guardian" statue from the Bayon period was uncovered at the Banteay Prei Temple in Angkor Thom, Siem Reap. Discovered by the APSARA National Authority, the statue was found in six pieces near the eastern entrance, likely buried due to the collapse of the temple's upper structure. The statue, dating back to the late 12th or early 13th century, will be preserved at the Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum.
Featured Books and Recommendations - Islam in Southeast Asia
[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.
Sultans, Shamans, and Saints: Islam and Muslims in Southeast Asia by Howard M. Federspiel
Cheng Ho and Islam in Southeast Asia by Tan Ta Sen
Routledge Handbook of Islam in Southeast Asia by Syed Muhammad Khairudin Aljunied
Malay Seals from the Islamic World of Southeast Asia by Annabel Teh Gallop
Muslim Cultures of the Indian Ocean: Diversity and Pluralism, Past and Present by Stéphane Pradines and Farouk Topan
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.
Exotic ceramics from the Murray Islands, Eastern Torres Strait
via Journal of Archaeological Science, 23 August 2024: The discovery of exotic ceramics in the Eastern Torres Strait, dating back to ~2600 cal. BP, reveals early maritime connections between southern Papua New Guinea and the Torres Strait. Petrographic analysis suggests that pottery-making groups from New Guinea introduced ceramics to the region, highlighting significant cultural interactions and long-distance seafaring during the Late Holocene.Inventories and Surveys for Heritage Management:Lessons for the Digital Age
via the Getty Conservation Institute: A new free online publication, drawing on experiences from the Getty Conservation Institute and SurveyLA, provides essential guidance on creating and maintaining inventories and surveys for heritage conservation. This comprehensive resource equips professionals with the tools, methodologies, and community engagement strategies needed to identify and protect cultural heritage sites.
Announcements
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Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
CollAsia 2024: Enhancing Museum Conservation with Traditional and Scientific Approaches
CollAsia 2024, titled "Connecting Collections with Museum Spaces and Contexts," is a three-week course aimed at integrating traditional knowledge with scientific conservation methods to promote sustainable collection care in museums. Organized by ICCROM and NRICH, this interdisciplinary course in Chiang Mai will feature lectures, practical exercises, and study visits, focusing on the connection between objects, their environments, and broader cultural contexts. Scholarships are available, particularly for professionals from the Asia-Pacific region. Deadline: 06 September 2024.UNESCO Launches World Heritage Capacity-Building Series in Southeast Asia
UNESCO Bangkok, in collaboration with UNESCO Jakarta, is launching a capacity-building series in Southeast Asia, following the Third Cycle of Periodic Reporting for Asia-Pacific. The series aims to improve World Heritage nominations and update Tentative Lists. The first event, starting with an open-access webinar on August 27, 2024, will bring together over 50 participants from Southeast Asian countries to focus on enhancing the identification and nomination of future World Heritage sites.
Upcoming Events
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
27 August 2024: Roadmap for World Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region: Emerging Priorities, Innovative Tools (Online)
28 August 2024: The Ancient Town of Si Thep in Thailand: A Crossroads of Indianization (Online)
12-13 September 2024: ASEAN Museum Forum 2024 (Bangkok, Thailand)
23-26 September 2024: International Forum on the Spice Route (Jakarta, Indonesia)
25 September 2024: The Second Cambridge History of Southeast Asia: Charting the Future of Southeast Asian History (Singapore and Online)
11-29 November 2024: CollAsia 2024 (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
17-19 July 2025: Decolonization of Southeast Asian Studies Workshop (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
8 - 13 September 2025: The Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology (Lisbon, Portugal)
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
CollAsia 2024: Enhancing Museum Conservation with Traditional and Scientific Approaches
CollAsia 2024, titled "Connecting Collections with Museum Spaces and Contexts," is a three-week course aimed at integrating traditional knowledge with scientific conservation methods to promote sustainable collection care in museums. Organized by ICCROM and NRICH, this interdisciplinary course in Chiang Mai will feature lectures, practical exercises, and study visits, focusing on the connection between objects, their environments, and broader cultural contexts. Scholarships are available, particularly for professionals from the Asia-Pacific region. Deadline: 06 September 2024.Professors Leonard and Barbara Andaya to Discuss Southeast Asian History
On September 25, 2024, Professors Leonard and Barbara Andaya will present a lecture at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore on the upcoming Second Cambridge History of Southeast Asia. The Andayas, key editors of the project, will share their insights on its conceptualization, with the publication expected in early 2026. The hybrid lecture will take place in Lecture Theatre 3, Gaia, and is open for online participation.UNESCO Launches World Heritage Capacity-Building Series in Southeast Asia
UNESCO Bangkok, in collaboration with UNESCO Jakarta, is launching a capacity-building series in Southeast Asia, following the Third Cycle of Periodic Reporting for Asia-Pacific. The series aims to improve World Heritage nominations and update Tentative Lists. The first event, starting with an open-access webinar on August 27, 2024, will bring together over 50 participants from Southeast Asian countries to focus on enhancing the identification and nomination of future World Heritage sites.
Brunei
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Brunei]
Brunei's Record Preservation Workshop Highlights Global Practices
via Borneo Bulletin, 20 August 2024: The Brunei History Centre, through its Borneo Research Centre, hosted a workshop titled "Appreciate Our Records" for 40 participants, sharing insights on record preservation learned from the National Library of Malaysia. The event aimed to enhance the skills of Brunei’s conservation officers and promote the centre as a leading resource for historical research.
Brunei Crown Prince Visits 'Raja Kita' Exhibition in Malaysia
via Bernama, 19 August 2024: Brunei Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah and his wife visited the 'Raja Kita' Exhibition at Malaysia's National Museum during his official visit. The exhibition, held in conjunction with the Installation Ceremony of Sultan Ibrahim as Malaysia's 17th King, showcases over 272 items related to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The visit underscores the close ties between Malaysia and Brunei as they celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Angkor Wat Gets New Walkway at iconic pond to Protect Site and Visitors
via Khmer Times, 24 August 2024: The Apsara National Authority is building a new walkway at the pond in front of Angkor Wat to enhance visitor access and preserve the site's natural beauty. The walkway, part of ANA's ongoing improvements, aims to reduce mud tracking, protect sensitive areas, and maintain the site's order, especially during the rainy season.Banteay Kdei Excavation Empowers Cambodia's Future Archaeologists
via Khmer Times, 24 August 2024: The Apsara National Authority has teamed up with Japan's Sophia University to enhance archaeological training in Cambodia. The collaboration includes joint excavations at Banteay Kdei temple, providing students with hands-on experience and practical skills essential for their future careers in archaeology.US Reaffirms Commitment to Cambodia's Cultural Heritage
via Khmer Times, 23 August 2024: The US has reaffirmed its role as a key partner in protecting Cambodia's cultural heritage, returning 56 looted artefacts during a recent ceremony. This ongoing partnership, underpinned by a cultural property agreement renewed last year, has facilitated the return of over 150 antiquities and supported the preservation of historic sites like Phnom Bakheng and Preah Vihear Temple.Extended Hours for Sunrises and Sunsets at Angkor Temples
via Phnom Penh Post, 23 August 2024: Prime Minister Hun Manet has approved extended visiting hours at Angkor Wat and other popular temples in Siem Reap, allowing tourists more time to enjoy sunrises and sunsets. The new hours adjust the entry times at Angkor Wat, Pre Rup, Phnom Bakheng, and Phnom Krom, offering visitors enhanced access. Additionally, improvements to the ticketing process, including options like wristbands and QR codes, are being considered to streamline entry.
See also: Khmer Times, Khmer Times, Khmer TimesTemple Run Recreation Sparks Conservation Concerns at Angkor
via Bloomberg/Straits Times, 23 August 2024: A viral TikTok trend where tourists recreate the "Temple Run" video game at Cambodia's Angkor Wat has sparked concerns among conservationists about potential damage to the 900-year-old ruins. Videos of tourists running and jumping through the temples have garnered millions of views, but experts warn that this behavior threatens the site's cultural and spiritual significance. While some argue the trend boosts tourism, others emphasize the need to balance visitor engagement with the preservation of heritage.Cambodia’s PM Advocates for Easier Access at Angkor Park
via Khmer Times, 23 August 2024: Prime Minister Hun Manet has urged the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts to ease photography restrictions and streamline visitation procedures at Angkor Archaeological Park. Speaking on the 1st anniversary of the Royal Government's 7th Legislature, he emphasized the need to enhance tourist experiences and simplify the identification process at the park to promote Cambodia’s cultural heritage and tourism.Cambodia Appeals for Continued Return of Cultural Heritage
via Khmer Times, 22 August 2024: Prime Minister Hun Manet has called on museums and institutions to continue voluntarily returning Cambodian artifacts to their homeland. Speaking during a ceremony for repatriated artifacts from the U.S., he emphasized the ethical importance of preserving cultural heritage. Since 1996, 1,098 Khmer artifacts have been successfully returned to Cambodia from 15 countries, thanks to the efforts of governments, institutions, and philanthropists.Bayon-Style Gate Guardian Sculpture Found at Banteay Prei Temple
via Phnom Penh Post, 22 August 2024: A sandstone "gate guardian" statue from the Bayon period was uncovered at the Banteay Prei Temple in Angkor Thom, Siem Reap. Discovered by the APSARA National Authority, the statue was found in six pieces near the eastern entrance, likely buried due to the collapse of the temple's upper structure. The statue, dating back to the late 12th or early 13th century, will be preserved at the Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum.Cambodia Celebrates Return of 70 Looted Artifacts from US
via AFP/Straits Times, 22 August 2024: Cambodia celebrated the return of 70 looted Buddhist and Hindu statues from U.S. collectors and museums, marking a significant restoration of cultural heritage. The repatriated artifacts, including statues from the Angkor period, symbolize a reunion with Cambodia's ancestral heritage. Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized the importance of peace in preventing cultural theft and lauded the international cooperation that facilitated the return.
See also: Lokmat Times, AP, Bernama/Xinhua, Newsweek, Khmer Times, Khmer Times (Video), Phnom Penh Post, Reuters/ABS-CBNANA Initiates Restoration of G15 Tower at Phnom Bakheng
via Khmer Times, 21 August 2024: The Apsara National Authority (ANA) has announced plans to restore the G15 brick tower at Phnom Bakheng Temple, which is over 1,000 years old and facing severe structural issues. Restoration efforts will focus on reinforcing the tower's walls, repairing pillars, and sealing cracks to prevent further deterioration, ensuring the monument's stability and preserving its historical significance.Riding Through Cambodia's Ancient Highways
via BBC, 19 August 2024: Cambodia's East Royal Road offers a 100km adventure through the heart of the Khmer Empire, connecting ancient temples like Angkor Wat, Beng Mealea, and Preah Khan. This historic route, filled with ancient bridges, hidden temples, and off-road challenges, showcases the Khmer Empire’s engineering marvels and cultural heritage. Despite searing heat and rugged terrain, the journey reveals a side of Cambodia rarely seen by tourists.ANA Restores Ancient Waterway at Beng Mealea
via Khmer Times, 19 August 2024: The Apsara National Authority has launched a restoration project for the ancient drainage system featuring the Makara sculpture, located near Beng Mealea Temple in Siem Reap. This initiative aims to preserve the site’s historical importance, showcasing Khmer engineering that directed water from Phnom Kulen through the Makara's mouth to vital reservoirs.
See also: EACCambodia seeks to revive cultural tourism with ‘Smile of Cambodia’
via Khmer Times, 15 August 2024: The "Smile of Cambodia" event, launched at Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, aims to revive tourism by celebrating Cambodia’s rich arts and culture. The event, supported by key government figures, includes exhibitions, cultural showcases, and entertainment, reflecting the nation's heritage and resilience post-COVID-19.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Oldest Plant Artefact Outside Africa Found in West Papua
via Oxford Mail, 22 August 2024: An Oxford-led archaeological study, in collaboration with Universitas Gadjah Mada, uncovered the oldest known plant artefact outside Africa, dating between 55,000 and 50,000 years ago, in a West Papua cave. The find suggests early seafarers used a northern route into the Pacific, marking a significant milestone in human migration and adaptation in the region.Borobudur Teams Up with Thai Airways for Spiritual Tourism Boom
via Social Expat, 21 August 2024: Borobudur Temple management and Thai Airways have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote Borobudur as a key spiritual tourism destination for Thai Buddhists. This collaboration aims to enhance air connectivity between Thailand and Yogyakarta, opening new opportunities for Indonesia's tourism industry beyond Bali. With Yogyakarta International Airport as the main entry point, the partnership is expected to significantly boost Thai tourist arrivals to Borobudur.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
George Town Heritage Fund Completes Sixth Restoration Project
via Free Malaysia Today, 24 August 2024: The George Town Heritage Habitat Seed Fund completed its sixth restoration project, focusing on a Category II heritage building on Lebuh King. Penang's chief minister Chow Kon Yeow hailed the initiative as a triple-win for the building’s owner, tenant, and the state. The RM370,606 restoration covered key repairs, preserving George Town's cultural heritage and ensuring original tenants can remain in place.Nenggiri Valley Yields 71,000 Artefacts Ahead of Dam Project
via The Malay Mail, 22 August 2024: Over 71,000 prehistoric artefacts, including 16 skeletons, stone tools, and pottery fragments, have been discovered and removed from Nenggiri Valley, Kelantan, ahead of a hydroelectric dam construction. The most significant find, a 14,000-16,000-year-old human skeleton, was uncovered in Gua Keledung Kecil. The artefacts will be preserved by the National Heritage Department, and some will be displayed in a mini gallery by Tenaga Nasional Berhad.
See also: The StarBrunei Crown Prince Visits 'Raja Kita' Exhibition in Malaysia
via Bernama, 19 August 2024: Brunei Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah and his wife visited the 'Raja Kita' Exhibition at Malaysia's National Museum during his official visit. The exhibition, held in conjunction with the Installation Ceremony of Sultan Ibrahim as Malaysia's 17th King, showcases over 272 items related to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The visit underscores the close ties between Malaysia and Brunei as they celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations.
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
Myanmar Hosts ASEAN Seminar on Literary Heritage Conservation
via Global New Light of Myanmar/ Ministry of Information, 09 August 2024: Myanmar hosted the "Seminar on Conservation Management of Literary Collections for ASEAN" in Yangon, focusing on new challenges and methods for preserving ASEAN literary heritage. The event, supported by the ASEAN Cultural Fund, included knowledge-sharing sessions among ASEAN representatives and visits to Myanmar's key cultural institutions.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Global Indigeneity Conference Highlights Ifugao’s Anthropological Legacy
via Rappler, 25 August 2024: Ifugao, celebrated as the birthplace of Philippine anthropology, hosted the Global Indigeneity Conference, highlighting the evolving understanding of its cultural heritage. New research challenges long-held beliefs about the Ifugao Rice Terraces, revealing them as dynamic rather than ancient structures. This shift underscores the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific inquiry, ensuring that Ifugao anthropology remains relevant in broader discussions on indigeneity and globalization.Historic Bacolod Park Joins UNESCO Cultural Landscape Campaign
via Rappler, 25 August 2024: Yulo’s Park in Bacolod City, featuring a 105-year-old historic house, is central to Negros Occidental’s campaign for UNESCO World Heritage status. A national historical marker was unveiled, recognizing the park’s significance within the province’s "sugar cultural landscape." The park’s inclusion is part of broader efforts to preserve and promote the rich history of Negros Occidental.Philippine Heritage and History Conference Set for Aug 29-30
via Manila Bulletin, 25 August 2024: The National Historical Commission of the Philippines will hold the 2024 National Conference on Local History and Heritage at the Ayala Museum, Makati, on August 29-30, 2024. The event, in collaboration with several cultural institutions, will focus on public history, heritage conservation, and community engagement. The conference will also feature the awarding of the "Dangal ng Kasaysayang Lokal" to outstanding local historians.Cebu’s Historic Pulpit Panels to Be Restored and Returned
via Sunstar, 24 August 2024: The National Museum of the Philippines will begin the meticulous restoration of four stolen pulpit panels from the Nuestra Señora del Patrocinio de Maria Santisima Parish Church in Boljoon, Cebu, in October 2024. The panels, donated to the NMP in February 2024, will undergo a 12-week restoration process, with their return expected in 2025.
More Historic Sites in Negros Occidental for UNESCO Nomination
via Digicast Negros, 23 August 2024: Negros Occidental is enhancing its bid for UNESCO World Heritage status by including additional historical sites like the Balay Ni Tan Juan and the Negros Occidental Capitol. This expanded effort aims to highlight the region's rich cultural heritage tied to the sugar industry, building on existing nominations such as the Historic Center of Silay City.NHCP Unveils Historical Markers in Marawi for Cityhood Anniversary
via Manila Standard, 19 August 2024: The National Historical Commission of the Philippines unveiled four historical markers in Marawi, Lanao del Sur, to commemorate significant events and figures, including the "Pagtatanggol sa Marawi" and "Amai Pakpak." The markers were revealed during History Month celebrations and Marawi’s 84th cityhood anniversary, with ceremonies attended by key officials and representatives.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
Professors Leonard and Barbara Andaya to Discuss Southeast Asian History
On September 25, 2024, Professors Leonard and Barbara Andaya will present a lecture at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore on the upcoming Second Cambridge History of Southeast Asia. The Andayas, key editors of the project, will share their insights on its conceptualization, with the publication expected in early 2026. The hybrid lecture will take place in Lecture Theatre 3, Gaia, and is open for online participation.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
[Video] Exploring the Universe of Si Thep
via Bangkok Post, 24 August 2024: Short video about the archaeology of Si Thep and the Pa Sak river cultures.
CollAsia 2024: Enhancing Museum Conservation with Traditional and Scientific Approaches
CollAsia 2024, titled "Connecting Collections with Museum Spaces and Contexts," is a three-week course aimed at integrating traditional knowledge with scientific conservation methods to promote sustainable collection care in museums. Organized by ICCROM and NRICH, this interdisciplinary course in Chiang Mai will feature lectures, practical exercises, and study visits, focusing on the connection between objects, their environments, and broader cultural contexts. Scholarships are available, particularly for professionals from the Asia-Pacific region. Deadline: 06 September 2024.Thailand's National Collection of Palm-Leaf Manuscripts of Phra That Phanom Chronicle
via UNESCO, 23 August 2024: A short video on the collection of Palm-Leaf Manuscripts of Phra That Phanom Chronicle, housed in the National Library of Thailand. The collection was inscribed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World International Register in 2023.Sukhothai Park Safe from Floods; Wat Phumin Mural Intact
via Bangkok Post, 23 August 2024: Despite severe flooding in Nan province, the Fine Arts Department has confirmed that Sukhothai Historical Park remains unaffected, thanks to flood prevention measures. The famous Pu Man Ya Man mural at Wat Phumin in Nan, along with other key historical sites, is also safe, although officials are monitoring potential soil subsidence due to the floods.Pattani Unveils Its Vibrant Cultural Heritage at Decoded Festival
via Bangkok Post, 20 August 2024: Pattani Decoded 2024, running from August 24 to September 1, showcases Pattani's unique cultural heritage through fashion, art, and historical exhibitions. The event, organized by Melayu Living, transforms Pattani's old town into a vibrant cultural hub, featuring 10 exhibitions, pavilions, and nightly light displays. Highlights include showcases on local clothing traditions, the significance of hijabs, and a special exhibition of Australian aboriginal bark paintings.
Exploring Phu Phra Bat: Tracing Isan's Unique Sima Culture
via ประวัติศาสตร์ นอกตํารา, 15 August 2024: Video documentary explores Phu Phra Bat Historical Park in Udon Thani, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Famous for its Sima stones, the park showcases the unique Sima culture, distinct to Thailand’s Isan region and reflecting Buddhist practices that emerged during the Dvaravati period.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Revamped Museums in Da Nang Aim for Cultural Innovation
via Da Nang Online, 23 August 2024: Da Nang is significantly investing in its museums, focusing on both infrastructure and enriching cultural content. With ongoing renovations and a push for digital transformation, the city aims to modernize its museums while preserving their cultural depth. Projects include the comprehensive upgrade of the Da Nang Museum and the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture, with new technologies like VR and digital heritage maps being integrated to enhance visitor experience.
Da Nang Museums Seek Solutions to Retain Skilled Workforce
via Da Nang Online, 22 August 2024: Da Nang museums are struggling to retain staff due to inadequate salaries and a shortage of specialized training, despite the critical role museum workers play in preserving cultural heritage. The Museum of Cham Sculpture, Da Nang Museum, and Fine Arts Museum face significant staffing challenges, with employees often required to perform multiple roles. Museum directors are calling for better compensation and policies to attract and retain skilled professionals in this multidisciplinary field.Cultural Gems of Da Nang: The Rise of Private Museums
via Da Nang Online, 21 August 2024: Private museums in Da Nang, such as the Dong Dinh Museum, play a crucial role in preserving Vietnam's cultural heritage. These museums, often born from personal collections and passion, focus on cultural and spiritual values rather than economic gains. Despite challenges, they contribute significantly to tourism and heritage conservation, with growing support from local authorities to ensure their sustainability.Digital Dive into Nguyen Dynasty Diplomacy
via Vietnam Plus, 19 August 2024: A 3D online exhibition titled "Nguyen Dynasty’s Diplomacy between the East and the West" launches on August 22, featuring rare documents from the Nguyen Dynasty's Imperial Archives. The exhibition, hosted by Vietnam’s National Archives Centre, offers new insights into the dynasty's diplomatic strategies with both Eastern and Western nations during the first half of its independent period (1802-1858).
See also: Vietnam Plus
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
Exotic ceramics from the Murray Islands, Eastern Torres Strait
via Journal of Archaeological Science, 23 August 2024: The discovery of exotic ceramics in the Eastern Torres Strait, dating back to ~2600 cal. BP, reveals early maritime connections between southern Papua New Guinea and the Torres Strait. Petrographic analysis suggests that pottery-making groups from New Guinea introduced ceramics to the region, highlighting significant cultural interactions and long-distance seafaring during the Late Holocene.Why Taiwan’s Ancient Communities Removed Healthy Teeth
via Cosmos, 21 August 2024: A recent paper (posted last week) reveals that tooth ablation, the ritualistic removal of healthy teeth, was practiced in Taiwan from the Neolithic era. This custom, linked to the Austronesian expansion, served various cultural purposes, including beautification, initiation into adulthood, and group identity. The study analyzed 250 archaeological sites, finding that the practice shifted from being gender-neutral to predominantly female-focused around 1,900 years ago.