Myths, Monarchs, and Mandapas
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 19 - 25 May 2025
Salamat malam! Apologies for the tardy dispatch this week—between being on the road last weekend and gearing up for another trip this coming one, wrangling the Monday morning newsletter into shape has proven a bit trickier than usual. But we have a fuller slate of stories than usual, and an exploration of how spiritual landmarks across the region are being rediscovered, desecrated, and restored, often in ways that reflect broader societal tensions and aspirations.
We begin in Cambodia, where the quiet majesty of Sambor Prei Kuk continues to reveal its ancient soul. Once the capital of the Chenla Empire, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Mandapa of the Sacred Bull - an intimate, intricately-carved shrine to Shiva’s divine mount, Nandi. Though the silver statue it once housed is long gone, recent conservation efforts have stabilized the structure and reanimated its spiritual gravitas. The site offers a powerful counterpoint to Angkor: a contemplative, vine-draped sanctuary whispering of early Khmer piety and artistic flourish.
Across the border in Vietnam, however, sacred space collided with present-day disorder. At Hue’s Thai Hoa Palace, a man—possibly under the influence or suffering a mental health episode—breached the barriers protecting the Nguyen Dynasty throne and vandalized the national treasure. The throne, with its red-and-gold lacquer, dragon motifs, and canopy, stood as a symbol of Vietnam’s final imperial lineage. That one moment of chaos could physically damage such a potent emblem is a sobering reminder of the fragility of the sacred in public space.
And then in Laos, we find a middle path: not reverence rediscovered nor desecration suffered, but the intentional renewal of the Black Stupa (That Dam) in Vientiane. Enigmatic and weather-worn, this 16th-century structure—long associated with Naga legends and colonial pillaging—will undergo restoration as part of a new government initiative. Once rumored to have been covered in gold and guarded by a seven-headed serpent, the stupa now embodies both cultural resilience and the promise of community-led heritage preservation.
Together, these stories trace a regional arc where sacred spaces are not frozen relics, but living, contested, evolving sites. Whether hidden in forest clearings, cordoned behind velvet ropes, or looming beside city intersections, they continue to reflect the values—and vulnerabilities—of the societies that surround them.
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:
Top Archaeologist Quits Indonesia’s History Rewrite Team Over Terminology Clash
via Tempo, 25 May 2025: Renowned archaeologist Prof. Harry Truman Simanjuntak has resigned from Indonesia’s official history rewriting team, citing academic concerns over the erasure of “prehistory” in favor of the term “early history.” Simanjuntak, initially editor of Volume 1, left the project within ten days, criticizing its top-down outline and lack of scholarly consultation. He argued that conflating prehistory with early historical periods undermines scientific rigor and violates established academic standards. He also raised concerns about political bias, as the planned 10-volume history is set to conclude with the era of President Joko Widodo, who only left office recently. The project is spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture to commemorate Indonesia’s 80th independence anniversary.New Archaeological Finds Along Mekong in Northern Laos
via Vientiane Times, 22 May 2025: A 32 cm tall Buddha statue in the Maravijaya pose was unearthed on May 20 during excavations along the Mekong River in Donpheungkham village, Bokeo province, Laos. The ongoing third phase of the dig also revealed coin-like objects, fragments of other statues, and a metal object resembling a barrel lid. Supported by the Aqua Company, the project follows limited finds in earlier phases but now hints at a larger religious or cultural site, possibly dating from the 14th to 16th century. The excavation team continues to search for more artifacts while raising awareness of Bokeo's rich heritage.Heritage Experts Advise Design Changes for Ayutthaya Rail Station
via The Nation, 19 May 2025: Thailand’s plan to build a high-speed rail station near the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park has received guidance from World Heritage experts. ICCROM and ICOMOS, advisory bodies to the World Heritage Committee, assessed the project’s impact and concluded that rerouting is not feasible. Instead, they recommended modifying the station’s design to reduce its visual footprint and preserve heritage views. Their suggestions include elevating tracks, planting trees, and coordinating urban development with tourism management. The State Railway of Thailand has committed to implementing these changes to protect Ayutthaya’s heritage status while advancing infrastructure development.
See also: The ThaigerMalaysia to Regulate Museums Under New National Law by November
via The Malaysian Reserve, 18 May 2025: Malaysia’s Ministry of National Unity is finalising a new law to regulate museum operations nationwide, expected to be tabled in Parliament by November 2025. The legislation will provide a legal framework for museum governance, inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement. It includes the formation of a Museum Council to advise and oversee institutions, particularly new private museums. Announced at the International Museum Day Seminar 2025, the law aims to elevate museums as transformative public spaces aligned with international standards and responsive to today’s rapidly changing societal landscape.Chinese Nationals Arrested for Looting Le Dynasty Royal Tomb
via Vietnam Net, 17 May 2025: Two Chinese nationals have been arrested and prosecuted in Thanh Hoa for illegally excavating the royal tomb of King Lê Túc Tông. The suspects entered Vietnam with metal-detecting tools and targeted the historic site in search of buried artifacts. Authorities found a 1.6-meter-deep hole at the tomb and recovered fragments of a damaged stone stele inscribed in classical Chinese. A third accomplice has fled Vietnam, with extradition proceedings underway. The desecration has raised alarms over the protection of Vietnamese cultural heritage from international looters.
Featured Books and Recommendations - Textiles
[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.
Textiles of Southeast Asia: Tradition, Trade and Transformation by Robyn Maxwell
The Women's Warpath: Iban Ritual Fabrics from Borneo by Traude Gavin
Textiles in Burman Culture by Sylvia Fraser-Lu
Patterned Splendour: Textiles Presented on Javanese Metal and Stone Sculptures; Eighth to Fifteenth Century by Lesley Pullen
A Royal Treasure: The Javanese Batik Collection of King Chulalongkorn of Siam by Dale Carolyn Gluckman (ed.)
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] Loose change? Evaluating the roles of Chinese coins in the Angkorian Khmer Empire
via Asian Archaeology, 20 May 2025: A new study investigates the rare presence and varied roles of Chinese coins in Cambodia's Angkorian period, focusing on discoveries from the regional centre of Preah Khan of Kompong Svay. Despite extensive historical trade between China and Angkor, few Chinese coins have been found in Cambodia, suggesting they were not used as currency in Angkor’s moneyless economy. Excavations at domestic layers in Preah Khan yielded coins dated between the 10th and 13th centuries, found alongside local ceramics and organic remains. The authors argue that these coins functioned not as money but as deposits, ingots, cures, or curios—underscoring the Khmers’ ability to repurpose foreign objects to fit local cultural and economic systems.[Paper] Scholarly Facilitation of the Illicit Trade in Cultural Objects: Providing a Veneer of Legitimacy
via Advances in Archaeological Practice, 19 May 2025: The case of art historian Emma Bunker exemplifies how scholarly authority can be used to facilitate the illicit trade of cultural objects. Bunker collaborated with notorious dealer Douglas Latchford, co-authoring publications that helped "launder" looted Cambodian artifacts into museum collections. She knowingly wrote auction catalog entries and gave lectures that obscured objects’ illicit origins—despite initial acknowledgments of their theft—effectively providing a veneer of legitimacy. Her publications continue to influence museum holdings and market credibility for Khmer antiquities. This case calls for greater academic reflexivity and reform to prevent the misuse of scholarship in legitimizing stolen cultural heritage.[Paper] Highland Potsherds and Post-Sriwijaya Pottery Industry in Lampung, Indonesia
via SPAFA Journal, 07 April 2025: A new study investigates mysterious highland potsherds in Lampung, Indonesia, using granulometric analysis to trace their origins. Despite their discovery in upland areas, the sherds’ mineral composition closely matches clays from Lampung’s lowlands, suggesting these regions were the true production centers. The findings also reveal a continuity of ceramic-making techniques spanning centuries, with a significant shift around 1905 during the Dutch transmigration period when Javanese migrants introduced their own pottery traditions. The research reinforces the idea that Lampung’s lowlands were key pottery suppliers to the region from the post-Sriwijaya era to modern times.
Announcements
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
[Webinar] Gaps in Southeast Asian Archaeology – Lecture 1: Critical Gaps in Southeast Asian Archaeological Research
The “Gaps in Southeast Asian Archaeology” lecture series kicks off on 14 June with two expert-led talks that interrogate key deficiencies in the region’s archaeological research. Professor Rasmi Shoocongdej (Silpakorn University) will address the lack of engagement with contemporary theory, while Professor Miriam Stark (University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa) will focus on the underuse of scientific and analytical methodologies. Hosted online by SEAMEO SPAFA, this session invites archaeologists, heritage professionals, and students to reflect on and reshape the theoretical and methodological foundations of Southeast Asian archaeology.Bagan at Risk: Conflict, Culture and Conservation
On 19 June 2025 heritage expert Ohnmar Myo will examine the growing threats to Myanmar’s most iconic archaeological site. Once the spiritual and political heart of the Bagan Kingdom, the UNESCO-listed site now faces a perfect storm of political instability, seismic risk, tourism pressures, and unregulated development. She will draw on her extensive conservation work to explore how religious practices, post-coup governance breakdown, and climate threats challenge the implementation of the 2018 Integrated Management Framework for Bagan.
Upcoming Events
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
31 May 2025: Trans-Oceanic Connections Through The Historical Mosques of Maritime Southeast Asia (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
12 June 2025: Archaeoastronomy in Thailand and Indonesia (Bangkok, Thailand)
14 June 2025: Gaps in Southeast Asian Archaeology – Lecture 1: Critical Gaps in Southeast Asian Archaeological Research (Online)
19 Jun 2025: Bagan at Risk: Conflict, Culture and Conservation (Bangkok, Thailand)
22-28 June 2025: World Archaeological Congress (WAC-10) (Darwin, Australia)
27-28 June 2025: Southeast Asia Library Group Annual Meeting (Passau, Germany)
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)
9-12 October 2025: 9th Symposium of the International Association for the Study of Silk Road Textiles (Berkeley CA, USA)
27 October - 6 November 2025: Asian Prehistory Today (UISPP) (Salatiga, Sangiran, Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
14-15 November 2025: Bengal Symposium: Archaeology, History, and Heritage Beyond Colonial Divides (Online)
2-11 February 2026: Angkor and the Rise of Southeast Asian Civilization (Cambodia)
2026: The Indo-Pacific Prehistory Association Congress (Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
[Webinar] Gaps in Southeast Asian Archaeology – Lecture 1: Critical Gaps in Southeast Asian Archaeological Research
The “Gaps in Southeast Asian Archaeology” lecture series kicks off on 14 June with two expert-led talks that interrogate key deficiencies in the region’s archaeological research. Professor Rasmi Shoocongdej (Silpakorn University) will address the lack of engagement with contemporary theory, while Professor Miriam Stark (University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa) will focus on the underuse of scientific and analytical methodologies. Hosted online by SEAMEO SPAFA, this session invites archaeologists, heritage professionals, and students to reflect on and reshape the theoretical and methodological foundations of Southeast Asian archaeology.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
UNESCO, Cambodia Develop Disaster Plan for Koh Ker Temple
via Khmer Times, 23 May 2025: Under the recommendation of ICOMOS, the National Authority for Preah Vihear and UNESCO have launched efforts to develop a disaster management plan for the Koh Ker Temple complex in northern Cambodia. With funding from the 2024/2025 World Heritage Convention grant, the two organizations carried out a risk assessment study between 16–22 May 2025 to evaluate hazards that may affect the temple, nearby communities, and natural surroundings. As part of the initiative, a workshop involving local officials, monks, and students was also held to raise awareness about World Heritage protection and climate change.ANA Hosts Workshop on Environmental Management at Angkor
via Khmer Times, 22 May 2025: The Apsara National Authority held a workshop at the Angkor Conference Hall to promote the implementation of its Environmental Management System for the Angkor World Heritage Site. Led by Sok Leakena, Director of the Angkor Environmental Management Unit, the seminar introduced a new management handbook and encouraged over 100 staff and officials to actively participate in preserving Angkor’s landscape, culture, and environment. The workshop is part of ANA’s quarterly capacity-building efforts to enhance site sustainability and community engagement.[Paper] Scholarly Facilitation of the Illicit Trade in Cultural Objects: Providing a Veneer of Legitimacy
via Advances in Archaeological Practice, 19 May 2025: The case of art historian Emma Bunker exemplifies how scholarly authority can be used to facilitate the illicit trade of cultural objects. Bunker collaborated with notorious dealer Douglas Latchford, co-authoring publications that helped "launder" looted Cambodian artifacts into museum collections. She knowingly wrote auction catalog entries and gave lectures that obscured objects’ illicit origins—despite initial acknowledgments of their theft—effectively providing a veneer of legitimacy. Her publications continue to influence museum holdings and market credibility for Khmer antiquities. This case calls for greater academic reflexivity and reform to prevent the misuse of scholarship in legitimizing stolen cultural heritage.Sacred Bull Shrine Restored at Cambodia’s Forgotten Capital
via Cambodianess, 17 May 2025: The ancient city of Sambor Prei Kuk, once the capital of the Chenla Empire and predating Angkor by centuries, is reemerging from obscurity thanks to conservation efforts focused on one of its standout temples: the Mandapa of the Sacred Bull Nandi. This shrine, dedicated to the divine bull of Shiva, features early Indian architectural influences and inscriptions praising King Ishanavarman I. Long neglected, the site has seen decades of restoration since the 1990s and now offers visitors a rare glimpse into early Khmer architecture and spiritual life. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sambor Prei Kuk offers a quieter, more introspective alternative to Angkor.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Top Archaeologist Quits Indonesia’s History Rewrite Team Over Terminology Clash
via Tempo, 25 May 2025: Renowned archaeologist Prof. Harry Truman Simanjuntak has resigned from Indonesia’s official history rewriting team, citing academic concerns over the erasure of “prehistory” in favor of the term “early history.” Simanjuntak, initially editor of Volume 1, left the project within ten days, criticizing its top-down outline and lack of scholarly consultation. He argued that conflating prehistory with early historical periods undermines scientific rigor and violates established academic standards. He also raised concerns about political bias, as the planned 10-volume history is set to conclude with the era of President Joko Widodo, who only left office recently. The project is spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture to commemorate Indonesia’s 80th independence anniversary.Vesak Day Celebrations Illuminate Borobudur's Restoration Efforts
via Nikkei Asia, 24 May 2025: The recent Vesak Day celebrations at Indonesia's Borobudur Temple underscored the monument's ongoing restoration and its significance as a center of Buddhist heritage. Thousands of devotees participated in traditional rituals, including the "Pradaksina" procession and lantern releases, symbolizing enlightenment and hope. These festivities not only honor the life of Buddha but also highlight the collaborative efforts in preserving and revitalizing this ancient temple, reinforcing its role in cultural diplomacy and interfaith harmony.[Video] Ming Dynasty Porcelain Unearthed in Cirebon Highlights Ancient Trade
via CGTN, 24 May 2025: Porcelain plates and other artifacts from China's Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) in Cirebon, Indonesia, serve as tangible evidence of historical trade between Chinese merchants and the Cirebon Sultanate during the era of the Maritime Silk Road. The artifacts not only highlight the extensive reach of Chinese maritime commerce but also highlight Cirebon's role as a significant port city facilitating cultural and economic exchanges between China and Southeast Asia.Muarajambi Temple Complex: Reviving Indonesia's Ancient Buddhist Heritage
via VietnamPlus, 23 May 2025: The Muarajambi Temple Complex in Jambi Province, Sumatra, Indonesia, is undergoing significant restoration and conservation efforts. Spanning nearly 12 square kilometers, the site encompasses over 80 ancient structures dating from the 7th to the 14th centuries, linked to the Melayu Kingdom and the Srivijaya Empire. After centuries of neglect, revitalization initiatives since the 2000s have aimed to preserve the site's historical and cultural significance. In 2024, the Indonesian government allocated substantial funding for restoration, archaeological research, and the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure. Efforts include constructing a museum, promoting eco-friendly transportation, and engaging local communities through cultural tourism. These initiatives not only aim to secure UNESCO World Heritage status but also to transform Muarajambi into a center for cultural education and sustainable tourism.
See also: Vietnam PlusMinister Fadli Zon Advocates for Museums in National Development
via The Jakarta Post, 23 May 2025: Minister for Cultural Affairs Fadli Zon marked International Museum Day by underscoring the essential role of museums in Indonesia's cultural and educational framework. He called for museums to be central to national cultural infrastructure, advocating for increased investment in their development, digitalization, and accessibility. Zon emphasized that museums should serve as active forums for civic dialogue and education, contributing significantly to the nation's cultural vitality and unity.Southeast Asia Boosts Heritage Archives with UNESCO-Japan Support
via UNESCO, 21 May 2025: A regional initiative funded by the Japan Funds-in-Trust is enhancing the protection of World Heritage site archives across Southeast Asia. The “Safeguarding World Heritage Site Archives” project, launched in 2023, supports site managers and archivists through tailored trainings and policy development in Cambodia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Highlights include new archival guidelines for Koh Ker, disaster risk management workshops at Borobudur and Prambanan in Indonesia, and practical training at Ayutthaya in Thailand. The project will culminate with the release of a multilingual manual on heritage archives management to aid conservation efforts worldwide.Submerged Sundaland Yields New Insights into Early Human Migration
via Kompas, 16 May 2025: Archaeologists have uncovered two Homo erectus skull fragments and over 6,000 vertebrate fossils from the seabed of the Madura Strait, East Java. This marks the first discovery of hominin fossils in submerged areas of the Indonesian archipelago. The findings suggest that Homo erectus inhabited the now-submerged lowlands of Sundaland approximately 140,000 years ago, indicating a broader geographic range than previously documented. Evidence of butchery on turtle and bovid bones points to active hunting and marrow extraction practices. These behaviors may reflect either independent cultural development or interactions with other hominin groups from mainland Asia. The research, a collaboration among scientists from Indonesia, the Netherlands, Australia, Germany, and Japan, has been published in the Journal of Quaternary Environments and Humans.
See also: Artnet, Men’s Journal[Paper] Highland Potsherds and Post-Sriwijaya Pottery Industry in Lampung, Indonesia
via SPAFA Journal, 07 April 2025: A new study investigates mysterious highland potsherds in Lampung, Indonesia, using granulometric analysis to trace their origins. Despite their discovery in upland areas, the sherds’ mineral composition closely matches clays from Lampung’s lowlands, suggesting these regions were the true production centers. The findings also reveal a continuity of ceramic-making techniques spanning centuries, with a significant shift around 1905 during the Dutch transmigration period when Javanese migrants introduced their own pottery traditions. The research reinforces the idea that Lampung’s lowlands were key pottery suppliers to the region from the post-Sriwijaya era to modern times.
Laos
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Laos]
Vientiane’s Black Stupa Set for Major Restoration
via Laotian Times, 23 May 2025: Vientiane’s iconic That Dam or “Black Stupa” is set for restoration under a government-led initiative that brings together public agencies and private funders. A survey launched by Chanthabouly district officials on 14 May will identify areas needing repair, while the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism and the Buddhist Fellowship Organization will compile a historical report. The 16th-century structure, believed to have once been gilded in gold, is steeped in local legend and Buddhist lore. Authorities hope the effort will preserve this historic landmark and enhance cultural tourism in Laos.New Archaeological Finds Along Mekong in Northern Laos
via Vientiane Times, 22 May 2025: A 32 cm tall Buddha statue in the Maravijaya pose was unearthed on May 20 during excavations along the Mekong River in Donpheungkham village, Bokeo province, Laos. The ongoing third phase of the dig also revealed coin-like objects, fragments of other statues, and a metal object resembling a barrel lid. Supported by the Aqua Company, the project follows limited finds in earlier phases but now hints at a larger religious or cultural site, possibly dating from the 14th to 16th century. The excavation team continues to search for more artifacts while raising awareness of Bokeo's rich heritage.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
Sarawak Seeks UNESCO Status for Historic Brooke-Era Forts
via Bernama/Borneo Post, 23 May 2025: Sarawak is seeking UNESCO recognition for its "Fort Trails" initiative, a heritage project highlighting 23 historical forts from the Brooke dynasty era. The campaign aims to conserve not just the surviving 14 structures, but also the intangible cultural heritage tied to the forts, including oral histories and the contributions of local communities. Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan presented the initiative at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, emphasizing its value to Sarawak’s identity and development goals. The nomination is backed by national heritage bodies and aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainable heritage tourism and local livelihoods, including the proposed listing of the Niah Caves.
See also: Dayak Daily, The VibesFort Cornwallis Moat Restoration Nears Completion in Penang
via Penang Property Talk, 23 May 2025: The restoration of the historic moat at Fort Cornwallis in Penang is nearing completion, with the Western section set to finish by July. This RM23.4 million project, jointly funded by the Penang government, Think City, and Yayasan Hasanah, revives a key colonial-era water feature while integrating sustainable design. The 4,000 sqm moat includes bio-retention swales and filtration systems that enhance water quality and biodiversity. The effort underscores Penang’s commitment to sustainable urban heritage conservation, aligning with global climate resilience and ecological goals.WWII-Era Mortar Shell Found at Penang Construction Site
via The Star, 20 May 2025: A World War II-era unexploded mortar shell was discovered on May 19 at a construction site along Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang in Penang. Police received a report from the public at 7:42 PM, and a Bomb Disposal Unit was deployed to safely secure the area. The shell was confirmed to be unexploded ordnance (UXO) and will be disposed of by authorities on May 20. No injuries or property damage were reported, and the site has since been secured.Historic Kenyah Badeng Hat Sparks Cultural Renaissance in Sarawak
via DayakDaily, 19 May 2025: A traditional Kenyah Badeng hat, taken over a century ago during colonial conflicts and housed at the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford, has been returned to Sarawak. The artifact's repatriation, facilitated by the Sarawak Heritage Council and other local bodies, has ignited a cultural resurgence among the Kenyah Badeng community. To commemorate its return, the Persatuan Kenyah Badeng Sarawak (KEBANA) is organizing a Hat Challenge as part of the KEBANA Festival from May 31 to June 2, 2025, in Miri.Crowds Flock to Muzium Negara on International Museum Day
via The Star, 19 May 2025: Muzium Negara and 18 other national museums welcomed thousands of visitors with free admission on International Museum Day, offering a multisensory journey through Malaysia’s history. Highlights included unique artifacts like centuries-old metal handbags and silver animal currency, as well as historic documents like the original 1976 ASEAN Concord. Visitors engaged with exhibits both ancient and modern, while interactive activities, cultural performances, and traditional games enhanced the experience. The event successfully fostered a sense of nostalgia, curiosity, and communal learning, especially among younger generations and first-time museum-goers.Malaysia to Regulate Museums Under New National Law by November
via The Malaysian Reserve, 18 May 2025: Malaysia’s Ministry of National Unity is finalising a new law to regulate museum operations nationwide, expected to be tabled in Parliament by November 2025. The legislation will provide a legal framework for museum governance, inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement. It includes the formation of a Museum Council to advise and oversee institutions, particularly new private museums. Announced at the International Museum Day Seminar 2025, the law aims to elevate museums as transformative public spaces aligned with international standards and responsive to today’s rapidly changing societal landscape.Museum Day in Malaysia Highlights Public Love for Heritage
via Bernama/the Malaysian Reserve, 18 May 2025: Thousands of visitors across Malaysia celebrated International Museum Day with free access to 19 national museums, experiencing the country’s rich heritage through exhibitions, cultural performances, and interactive activities. Museums from Kuala Lumpur’s National Museum to Johor, Pahang, and Kedah recorded strong turnouts, with families, students, and foreign tourists participating. Highlights included multilingual tours, traditional crafts, and mining demos. The day reinforced museums’ evolving roles as educational and community spaces, aligned with the 2025 theme, “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.”
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
Bagan at Risk: Conflict, Culture and Conservation
On 19 June 2025 heritage expert Ohnmar Myo will examine the growing threats to Myanmar’s most iconic archaeological site. Once the spiritual and political heart of the Bagan Kingdom, the UNESCO-listed site now faces a perfect storm of political instability, seismic risk, tourism pressures, and unregulated development. She will draw on her extensive conservation work to explore how religious practices, post-coup governance breakdown, and climate threats challenge the implementation of the 2018 Integrated Management Framework for Bagan.National Museum Yangon Draws Crowds for International Museum Day
via Xinhua/The Star, 19 May 2025: On International Museum Day, Myanmar’s National Museum in Yangon welcomed families, students, and international visitors, many of whom shared personal reflections on how museums deepen their connection to the country’s history and identity. Highlights included the Royal Regalia, ancient inscriptions, and lacquerware, with many noting the emotional power of seeing national treasures up close.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Cebu's Fort San Pedro, Plaza Independencia, and Legazpi Monument Declared National Treasures
via The Freeman/Philippine Star, 25 May 2025: The National Museum of the Philippines has officially declared Fort San Pedro, Plaza Independencia, and the Miguel Lopez de Legazpi Monument in Cebu City as National Cultural Treasures. This recognition highlights the exceptional historical, cultural, and artistic value of these sites. Fort San Pedro, dating back to 1565, stands as the country's oldest triangular bastion fort. Plaza Independencia has revealed artifacts from pre-colonial times, indicating a rich history of settlement and trade. The Legazpi Monument commemorates the Spanish navigator's role in Philippine history. The formal turnover and unveiling of the NCT markers were held as part of National Heritage Month celebrations, emphasizing the city's commitment to preserving its rich heritage.Manila Post Office Restoration Begins After 2023 Fire
via The Manila Times, 23 May 2025: Two years after a devastating fire, the Manila Central Post Office is set to undergo restoration, with the release of architectural and engineering design terms marking the project's formal launch. The building, a 1926 neoclassical masterpiece by architect Juan Arellano, has been declared structurally sound and will be retrofitted to meet modern safety and accessibility standards while preserving its heritage. Led by PHLPost in coordination with several government agencies—including the National Museum and the Office of the First Lady—the project is a flagship initiative in Philippine heritage conservation and urban renewal.National Museum Reopens Gates, Unveils Historical Marker
via Philstar, 22 May 2025: In celebration of International Museum Day, the National Museum of the Philippines unveiled a new historical marker and reopened its main gates on Maria Orosa Street. The marker, placed at the Sentinel of Freedom Monument in Liwasang Rizal, commemorates the museum's revised foundation date, now officially traced to an 1887 Spanish royal decree establishing the Museo-Biblioteca de Filipinas, the nation's first museum-library. This initiative reflects efforts to deepen public appreciation of national heritage and reestablish direct access to the museum from Rizal Park after four years of closure.Iloilo Celebrates Heritage Month with Gold Masks and Mythical Lore
via Panay News, 20 May 2025: National Heritage Month 2025 in Iloilo celebrates Western Visayas’ rich cultural legacy with events led by the National Museum of the Philippines. Highlights include a hands-on workshop recreating the 14th-century Oton Gold Death Mask using ancient repoussé metalwork techniques, and a lecture on Panay Island’s mythical beings tied to local folk beliefs. Artists and researchers collaborated on these initiatives, which aim to bridge heritage with contemporary creativity.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
National Museum Highlights Maritime Heritage in SG60 Show
via The Straits Times, 21 May 2025: The National Museum of Singapore launches Once Upon A Tide: Singapore’s Journey From Settlement To Global City on May 24, a major exhibition tracing the island’s development through its maritime history. From 2nd-century maps to 20th-century immigration stories, the exhibition showcases Singapore's strategic location and transformation into a global port city. As the museum’s anchor show during the closure of the Singapore History Gallery, it features artifacts like prehistoric adzes, colonial maps, trade goods, and personal mementos, culminating in contemporary icons such as Joseph Schooling’s swim trunks. It runs until 09 October 2026.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Heritage Experts Advise Design Changes for Ayutthaya Rail Station
via The Nation, 19 May 2025: Thailand’s plan to build a high-speed rail station near the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park has received guidance from World Heritage experts. ICCROM and ICOMOS, advisory bodies to the World Heritage Committee, assessed the project’s impact and concluded that rerouting is not feasible. Instead, they recommended modifying the station’s design to reduce its visual footprint and preserve heritage views. Their suggestions include elevating tracks, planting trees, and coordinating urban development with tourism management. The State Railway of Thailand has committed to implementing these changes to protect Ayutthaya’s heritage status while advancing infrastructure development.
See also: The Thaiger
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Man Vandalizes National Treasure at Hue Imperial City
via VnExpress, 25 May 2025: A 42-year-old man vandalized the Nguyen Dynasty throne at Thai Hoa Palace in Hue on May 24, damaging one of Vietnam’s most important national treasures. The man, reportedly showing signs of psychosis or drug influence, bypassed barriers, climbed onto the throne, and broke its armrest before being restrained by security. The throne, housed in the UNESCO-listed Hue Imperial City, was officially declared a national treasure in 2016. Authorities are conducting a psychiatric evaluation of the suspect, and the throne will undergo emergency repair and preservation. The Ministry of Culture has requested an urgent investigation into the incident.
See also: AFP, Daily Mail, CNNHoi An Shipwreck Sparks Call for Underwater Archaeology Hub
via Vietnam.vn, 25 May 2025: The discovery of a large, centuries-old shipwreck off Cam An beach in Hoi An has renewed interest in the region’s underwater heritage potential. Believed to predate 1905 and constructed using Southeast Asian and Chinese shipbuilding techniques, the wreck offers tangible evidence of Hoi An’s historical role in international maritime trade. Local accounts also suggest the presence of another shipwreck nearby containing 16th–17th century Zhangzhou and Dehua ceramics. Experts now consider the Cu Lao Cham–Hoi An sea zone a “promised land” for underwater archaeology, with calls to establish a maritime museum and international research center. Past training and survey initiatives, including ROV deployment and international archaeological workshops, support the area’s growing profile in marine heritage studies.
See also: Báo Quảng NamPM Orders Lightning Safety Upgrade at Angkor After Fatal Strike
via Khmer Times, 24 May 2025: Following a deadly lightning strike at Angkor Wat that killed three and injured dozens, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has ordered the urgent expansion of lightning protection systems across the Angkor resort area. The directive tasks the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts and the Apsara Authority with coordinating implementation. Public pressure mounted after the government initially downplayed the incident, prompting concerns from tourism stakeholders about the impact on Cambodia’s fragile travel sector. Deputy Prime Minister Tea Seiha is leading inspections, and plans are underway to install more lightning rods at high-traffic temple sites to ensure visitor safety.
See also: Khmer Times, NHK World, Khmer TimesVietnam Emphasizes Community Role in World Heritage Management
via Vietnam.vn, 21 May 2025: An international workshop titled “Protecting and Promoting the Values of World Heritage: Community-Based Approach for Sustainable Development” was held at Thang Long Imperial Citadel, uniting Vietnamese and international experts to discuss heritage conservation. Co-chaired by Deputy Minister Hoang Dao Cuong and UNESCO World Heritage Center Director Lazare Eloundou Assomo, the event emphasized integrating community participation, digital innovation, and policy reform into heritage strategies. The conference also underlined Vietnam’s commitment to UNESCO and its intention to further develop legal, technical, and socio-economic frameworks for sustainable and inclusive heritage management across its many world heritage sites.
See also: Bo Van HoaArchaeology Key to Ho Dynasty Citadel’s Global Recognition
via Vietnam.vn, 18 May 2025: The Ho Dynasty Citadel in Thanh Hoa stands as a global heritage site not only for its monumental stone architecture but for the rigorous archaeological research that affirms its authenticity and integrity. Excavations over the past two decades have uncovered original foundations, artifacts, and urban layouts, illuminating political, technical, and spiritual life in the 14th century. This scientific groundwork has shaped conservation, education, and tourism strategies. With in-situ preservation, digitization, and international collaborations, archaeology continues to be the vital foundation for sustaining and promoting the citadel’s global value.
See also: Báo Văn HóaChinese Nationals Arrested for Looting Le Dynasty Royal Tomb
via Vietnam Net, 17 May 2025: Two Chinese nationals have been arrested and prosecuted in Thanh Hoa for illegally excavating the royal tomb of King Lê Túc Tông. The suspects entered Vietnam with metal-detecting tools and targeted the historic site in search of buried artifacts. Authorities found a 1.6-meter-deep hole at the tomb and recovered fragments of a damaged stone stele inscribed in classical Chinese. A third accomplice has fled Vietnam, with extradition proceedings underway. The desecration has raised alarms over the protection of Vietnamese cultural heritage from international looters.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
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Nanhai One Shipwreck Reveals Treasures of Ancient Sea Trade
via Bastille Post, 18 May 2025: The Maritime Silk Road Museum in Guangdong showcases the Nanhai One, a Song Dynasty shipwreck raised in 2007 after decades of planning. As China’s first major underwater archaeology success, the wreck has yielded over 180,000 artifacts—mostly porcelain, including Arab-influenced designs. The museum, purpose-built to preserve and study the site, tells the story of East-West trade via the Maritime Silk Road. Experts emphasize its value as both cultural heritage and proof of China’s historical maritime activity in the South China Sea, marking it as a milestone in underwater archaeology and heritage diplomacy.