The Rojak #73: Soil, Statues, and Sacred Sites

Exploring Intercontinental Exchanges and Iconic Identities in our last Rojak for the year

Welcome to this month’s edition of The Rojak, a bonus newsletter for my supporters where we delve into stories that are not about the archaeology of Southeast Asia, but kinda are. This month’s selection explores themes that stretch from the intersections of historical legacies to the evolving tapestry of cultural identities.

In a blend of history and modernity, one story features a Chinese policeman whose passion for heritage drives him to solve over 260 cases of tomb robbery and illegal cultural relic trade. This story not only highlights the importance of preserving historical artifacts but also showcases the dynamic use of technology in safeguarding our past. Another intriguing piece takes us on a journey of cultural exchange, revealing a unique exchange between Thailand and India that symbolizes deep-rooted spiritual connections.

The Rojak is a bonus newsletter for the members on Substack and supporters from Buy Me a Coffee. It is named after an exotic salad found in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. Thank you for reading, and no sacred statues were torched (by me!) during the making of this newsletter.