Rainy Season over Southeast Asia
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 09 - 15 September 2024
สวัสดีครับ! This morning I am reporting to you from Bangkok, where I'm here on a brief work mission. After having fully settled into Jakarta, it's great to be back even if only for a couple of days. However, this week’s edition comes with a reference to the severe natural disasters affecting Southeast Asia. The heavy rains are seasonal, but they are particularly bad this year.
Typhoon Yagi has wreaked havoc across the region, particularly in northern Vietnam, where floods and landslides have tragically claimed more than 200 lives and left many more missing. The devastation stretches inland as the knock-on effects of heavy rains have affected Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. In Thailand, severe flooding is reported in the northern provinces of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Severe rainfall in Bagan has reportedly caused damage to some of Bagan's ancient temples. If you're able, consider donating to the Red Cross societies in Vietnam and Thailand.
Amid these challenges, there’s also controversy brewing in Indonesia over the plan to install a chattra (a symbolic umbrella) atop Borobudur Temple. The plan has since been postponed, but archaeologists and heritage activists are urging its cancellation entirely, arguing that it lacks historical precedence and could threaten the temple's structural integrity.
Despite the storms, restoration efforts continue elsewhere in Southeast Asia. In Cambodia, the APSARA National Authority has successfully restored a lion statue at Phnom Krom Temple, and significant partnerships are underway to protect the Angkor Thom temples. There's also great excitement about the upcoming completion of Bat Chum Temple’s restoration by the end of 2024.
Here, for no reason at all, is a good time to share a happy image of a cute animal. Moo Deng is a baby pygmy hippo in Thailand that has taken social media by (pun intended) storm. I searched for him once, and now my social media is filled pictures of him and I have no regrets:
And now, onto the news!
Contents
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter and Website is supported in part by many generous readers, colleagues and friends. You can support my work by buying me a coffee.
Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are five of the most popular stories from this week:
Archaeologists and Buddhists Clash Over Borobudur Chattra Plan
via Bernas, 07 September 2024: The planned installation of a chattra (crown umbrella) atop Borobudur Temple on September 18, 2024, has sparked controversy. The Borobudur Conservation Center and archaeologists argue the chattra is not historically accurate, as it was initially removed in the early 20th century for being inappropriate. The plan has faced resistance from academics and Buddhists, who stress the temple's world heritage status and call for its preservation without alterations. Articles are in Indonesian.
See also: RBGRecord Rainfall Hits Bagan: Ancient Pagodas Damaged
via Eleven Myanmar, 13 September 2024: Bagan-Nyaung U broke a 60-year rainfall record on September 12, with over 8.5 inches of rain causing damage to several ancient pagodas, including the 13th-century Sinka Temple. The storm, combined with monsoon winds, led to structural issues like water leakage and collapsing walls in key temples. Despite the destruction, no significant damage to the region's famous wall paintings was reported.
Palawan Government Pays Tribute to Dr. Victor Paz’s Pioneering Research
via Palawan News, 11 September 2024: The provincial government of Palawan posthumously recognized Dr. Victor Paz for his pioneering archaeological work in Dewil Valley, El Nido. Over two decades, Dr. Paz led excavations revealing early human presence and significant discoveries like Ille Cave, one of the oldest cremation sites in Southeast Asia.
16,000-Year-Old Skeleton Discovered in Malaysian Caves
via Live Science, 10 September 2024: Archaeologists in Malaysia’s Nenggiri Valley have uncovered 16 skeletons, some as old as 16,000 years, ahead of flooding for a hydroelectric project. The finds, from pre-Neolithic and Neolithic cultures, include grave goods such as stone tools, pottery, and crystals. The project, which will flood the valley by 2027, has sparked controversy over its impact on local Indigenous communities.Phnom Bakheng Restoration Progresses Steadily Amid Challenges
via Khmer Times, 10 September 2024: The Phnom Bakheng Temple restoration, led by the Apsara National Authority (ANA) and supported by the World Monuments Fund, is progressing smoothly despite challenges like heavy rain. Restoration, which began in 2019, has focused on preserving the site’s deteriorated walls and platforms, with completion expected by the end of 2024. Significant work has already been completed on the shrines, staircases, and platforms.
Featured Books and Recommendations
[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.
The Archaeology of Early Colonial Manila: A Hybrid City in Global History
by Ellen Hsieh
Malay Silver and Gold: Courtly Splendour from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand by Michael Backman
Photogrammetry for Archaeological Objects: A Manual by Madeline G.P. Robinson
Taiwan Archaeology: Local Development and Cultural Boundaries in the China Seas by Richard Pearson
Patterned Splendour: Textiles Presented on Javanese Metal and Stone Sculptures; Eighth to Fifteenth Century by Lesley Pullen
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.
[Paper] Ancient Rapanui genomes reveal resilience and pre-European contact with the Americas
via Nature, 11 September 2024: A genomic analysis of 15 ancient Rapanui individuals reveals no evidence of the population collapse previously suggested by the 'ecocide' theory. The findings also confirm pre-European contact with Native Americans, indicating trans-Pacific voyages between 1250-1430 CE. This study contributes to both debunking the ecological collapse narrative and understanding Polynesian resilience.[Paper] An investigation into differential use of ocher in burials at Khok Phanom Di, Thailand
via International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, 10 September 2024: A study by Sarah Paris of burials at Khok Phanom Di, Thailand (~4000-3500 BP) reveals selective use of ocher in 82% of burials, linked to age, burial chronology, and grave goods. The research highlights the symbolic and social significance of ocher, especially in standardizing community identity while also marking distinctions, particularly with perinatal burials. Ocher use was prevalent in adults and children but more varied in infants.
Announcements
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
Join the Legendary Golden Naga Hunt
via Naga d’or, 10 September 2024: In collaboration with the Musée Guimet, Enfants du Mékong and Unsolved Hunts have launched an international treasure hunt to uncover the mythical Golden Naga of Angkor, inspired by the explorer Henri Mouhot. The €50,000 treasure includes a custom-made creation by jeweler Lorenz Bäumer, and all proceeds from the hunt will support educational projects in Cambodia. Participants will solve 8 riddles from home, with 100% of profits benefiting Enfants du Mékong.[Job] Individual Consultant: Culture specialist -Built Heritage, World Heritage and Capacity Building
UNESCO Bangkok is hiring a Culture Specialist to support built heritage, World Heritage, and capacity-building projects across Asia-Pacific. The role includes providing technical advice on safeguarding cultural heritage, supporting the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation, and contributing to educational initiatives. The application deadline is September 15, 2024, and the duty station is in Bangkok, Thailand.[Job] Associate Professorship in Evolutionary Anthropology
The School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography at Oxford University is recruiting an Associate Professor in Evolutionary Anthropology, with a tutorial fellowship at Wadham College. Candidates should hold a doctorate in anthropology, have strong research and teaching experience in evolutionary anthropology, and demonstrate leadership in research funding and programme management. The position begins in January 2025, with full-time, permanent appointment upon successful review. Deadline is 07 October 2024
Upcoming Events
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Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
19 September 2024: Echoes from the Field: An Initial Review of Thailand's Maritime Heritage (Bangkok, Thailand and Online)
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)
17 October 2024: Art, Diplomacy and the Projection of Power: The Thai Elephant Statues in Singapore, Jakarta and Ho Chi Minh City (Bangkok, Thailand)
3-6 November 2024: 9th ASEAN Traditional Textile Symposium ATTS 9 (Vientiane, Laos)
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)
2026: The Indo-Pacific Prehistory Association Congress (Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Ancient Lion Statue Restored by APSARA National Authority
via Khmer Times, 14 September 2024: The APSARA National Authority restored a 1.37-meter-tall lion statue at Phnom Krom Temple after six months of repair. The statue, broken into four pieces, was reassembled with newly carved stone legs. Experts ensured accuracy by creating clay molds before carving replacement parts, successfully returning the statue to its original form.Restoration Projects at Angkor Thom Temples to Receive Korean Support
via Khmer Times, 13 September 2024: The APSARA National Authority and the Korean Heritage Agency are collaborating on the restoration of Angkor Thom temples, part of the Angkor Archaeological Park. This partnership aims to preserve Cambodia's cultural heritage while enhancing visitor experiences, focusing on partial renovations of temples like Bayon and Preah Khan.Lawyer Barred From Met Amid Khmer Artefact Repatriation Efforts
via Phnom Penh Post, 11 September 2024: Cambodia is negotiating the return of more stolen Khmer artefacts from The Metropolitan Museum of Art after a recent handover of 14 pieces. Tensions arose when lawyer Bradley J. Gordon, involved in these negotiations, was barred from a meeting at The Met. The museum holds many artefacts obtained from notorious antiquities dealer Douglas Latchford. Cambodia remains firm in its efforts to reclaim cultural treasures while facing resistance and delays.Bat Chum Temple Set for Full Restoration by Late 2024
via Khmer Times, 11 September 2024: The APSARA National Authority is on track to complete the restoration of the 1,000-year-old Bat Chum Temple by the end of 2024, with 70% of the work done. Restoration efforts focus on reinforcing the temple’s structure, using a combination of high-quality old bricks and new materials, and adding steel reinforcements.Cambodia’s Efforts to Protect Heritage Buildings Amid Urbanization
via Khmer Times, 11 September 2024: Cambodia’s heritage buildings, symbols of national identity and culture, face challenges from urbanization and modernization. Efforts led by the Ministry of Culture focus on preserving these historic structures, including hotels like Raffles Hotel Le Royal. Balancing heritage with modern functionality is key, but high renovation costs and structural challenges often push for demolition. Experts highlight the importance of maintaining historical integrity while integrating modern amenities, ensuring these landmarks remain both culturally and commercially viable.Join the Legendary Golden Naga Hunt
via Naga d’or, 10 September 2024: In collaboration with the Musée Guimet, Enfants du Mékong and Unsolved Hunts have launched an international treasure hunt to uncover the mythical Golden Naga of Angkor, inspired by the explorer Henri Mouhot. The €50,000 treasure includes a custom-made creation by jeweler Lorenz Bäumer, and all proceeds from the hunt will support educational projects in Cambodia. Participants will solve 8 riddles from home, with 100% of profits benefiting Enfants du Mékong.British Library Curator Reflects on Cambodian Library Visits
via SEALG Blog, 10 September 2024: Jana Igunma, British Library Curator for Thai, Lao, and Cambodian collections, visited libraries and archives in Phnom Penh in June 2024. The study trip included institutions like the National Library of Cambodia, the Documentation Center of Cambodia, and Bophana Audiovisual Center, where she learned about efforts to preserve Cambodia's cultural and historical records, particularly in the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge. Igunma highlighted the resilience of Cambodia’s librarians and archivists and the nation’s ongoing reconciliation and education efforts.Phnom Bakheng Restoration Progresses Steadily Amid Challenges
via Khmer Times, 10 September 2024: The Phnom Bakheng Temple restoration, led by the Apsara National Authority (ANA) and supported by the World Monuments Fund, is progressing smoothly despite challenges like heavy rain. Restoration, which began in 2019, has focused on preserving the site’s deteriorated walls and platforms, with completion expected by the end of 2024. Significant work has already been completed on the shrines, staircases, and platforms.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Cancel the Chattra: Archaeologist Calls for Borobudur Preservation
via Tempo, 15 September 2024: An Indonesian archaeologist urges the cancellation of a plan to install a chattra atop Borobudur Temple, citing a lack of historical evidence for its original presence. The chattra, a symbolic Buddhist umbrella, was postponed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs due to structural concerns.See also: VOI
Archaeologists and Buddhists Clash Over Borobudur Chattra Plan
via Bernas, 07 September 2024: The planned installation of a chattra (crown umbrella) atop Borobudur Temple on September 18, 2024, has sparked controversy. The Borobudur Conservation Center and archaeologists argue the chattra is not historically accurate, as it was initially removed in the early 20th century for being inappropriate. The plan has faced resistance from academics and Buddhists, who stress the temple's world heritage status and call for its preservation without alterations. Articles are in Indonesian.
See also: RBGPuhsararang Kediri Church Declared National Cultural Heritage
via VOI, 25 August 2024: The Puhsararang Church in Kediri, East Java, has been recommended to be recognised as a national cultural heritage site by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. This nearly century-old church, designed by a Dutch architect blending Javanese and European styles, represents Kediri’s rich history and architectural fusion.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
16,000-Year-Old Skeleton Discovered in Malaysian Caves
via Live Science, 10 September 2024: Archaeologists in Malaysia’s Nenggiri Valley have uncovered 16 skeletons, some as old as 16,000 years, ahead of flooding for a hydroelectric project. The finds, from pre-Neolithic and Neolithic cultures, include grave goods such as stone tools, pottery, and crystals. The project, which will flood the valley by 2027, has sparked controversy over its impact on local Indigenous communities.Rashid Esa’s Book Preserves Mah Meri Culture on Carey Island
via Free Malaysia Today, 10 September 2024: Rashid Esa’s book Moyang: Spirit People of Carey Island documents the endangered culture of the Mah Meri, an indigenous people from Malaysia. With over 30 years of experience living among them, Rashid explores their traditions, spirit sculptures, and connection to the land. His work serves as a preservation effort, urging readers to learn from and protect the Mah Meri before their culture fades.
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
Record Rainfall Hits Bagan: Ancient Pagodas Damaged
via Eleven Myanmar, 13 September 2024: Bagan-Nyaung U broke a 60-year rainfall record on September 12, with over 8.5 inches of rain causing damage to several ancient pagodas, including the 13th-century Sinka Temple. The storm, combined with monsoon winds, led to structural issues like water leakage and collapsing walls in key temples. Despite the destruction, no significant damage to the region's famous wall paintings was reported.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
The Global History Behind Bicol's Iconic Spicy Laing
via Rappler, 15 September 2024: Prof. Stephen Acabado discusses how the dish "laing”, or "gulay na natong”, is a product of centuries of global trade, agricultural innovation, and cultural exchange in the Philippines. Bicol’s spicy staple, made from taro leaves, coconut milk, and chili peppers, reflects a history of maritime contacts, including the introduction of chili peppers during the Columbian Exchange.Antique Province Calls for Submissions on Cultural Heritage Sites
via PNA, 12 September 2024: Local government units in Antique province are urged to submit articles on historically significant statues, landmarks, and sites for official recognition and protection. Once declared important historical and cultural properties, markers will be installed to safeguard these assets. The ordinance mandates penalties for removing or damaging markers.Palawan Government Pays Tribute to Dr. Victor Paz’s Pioneering Research
via Palawan News, 11 September 2024: The provincial government of Palawan posthumously recognized Dr. Victor Paz for his pioneering archaeological work in Dewil Valley, El Nido. Over two decades, Dr. Paz led excavations revealing early human presence and significant discoveries like Ille Cave, one of the oldest cremation sites in Southeast Asia.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Xo Dang Revive Rong House Tradition in Kon Tum
via VOV, 11 September 2024: The Xo Dang people of Kon Tum province have restored their traditional Rong house, a symbol of community and cultural heritage, with the support of local authorities and artisans. The project, completed in two months, involved over 200 households and aims to preserve the traditions, including ancient gong melodies and decorative patterns, for future generations. The Rong house plays a central role in festivals and fosters intergenerational cultural transmission.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
[Paper] Ancient Rapanui genomes reveal resilience and pre-European contact with the Americas
via Nature, 11 September 2024: A genomic analysis of 15 ancient Rapanui individuals reveals no evidence of the population collapse previously suggested by the 'ecocide' theory. The findings also confirm pre-European contact with Native Americans, indicating trans-Pacific voyages between 1250-1430 CE. This study contributes to both debunking the ecological collapse narrative and understanding Polynesian resilience.