Local Cultural Heritage Research Articles

Assessment of the impact of the Syrian conflict on archaeological sites in the Daraa region

To date, the attention of both local and global cultural heritage preservation initiatives in Daraa Province, southern Syria, have focused on the well-known Bosra World Heritage site. A comprehensive investigation of damage to Daraa’s many other archaeological sites, poorly studied in comparison to other parts of Syria, has until now, not been undertaken. This study, for the first time, attempts to remedy this, by detailing 1632 instances of damage across 196 archaeological sites surveyed using freely available high-resolution satellite images captured between 2004 and 2022. A key element of this dataset is that it indicates that while the types of damage to heritage sites identified are similar to those that have been documented elsewhere in Syria, the temporal and spatial patterning of this damage can be related to specific local conditions and events. This underscores the need for large-scale studies undertaken using remote sensing, to be grounded within an understanding of local circumstances, to maximize their information value.

Tradisi Tebokan dalam Perspektif Pengembangan Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah (UMKM) Masyarakat Kaliputu Kota Kudus

The tradition of Tebokan in Kaliputu Village, Kudus, is a local cultural heritage that strengthens community identity and plays an important role in economic development through the involvement of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This annual event, which coincides with the celebration of 1 Muharram, combines religious values and local culture with a procession of gunungan jenang that symbolizes prosperity. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques in the form of interviews, documentation, and literature studies. The results showed that Tebokan Tradition is not only a cultural ritual, but also serves as a promotional strategy that supports the growth of jenang MSMEs. Government support and synergy between MSME players and the local community have increased the popularity of jenang as a local superior product, while strengthening the village economy. Despite facing obstacles, such as limited budget and community participation, this tradition still has great potential to grow through cross-sector collaboration. Through the preservation of the Tebokan Tradition, Kaliputu Village not only maintains its cultural heritage but also strengthens economic resilience and enriches the social life of the community.

Survey and Analysis of University Students Awareness and Willingness to Disseminate Local Intangible Cultural Heritage

Intangible cultural heritage is the living presentation of the excellent traditional Chinese culture in the contemporary era, and is a vivid witness to the continuous inheritance of Chinese civilization. In recent years, both all sectors of society and favorable policies have attached great importance to cultural self-confidence and the protection of intangible cultural heritage. This paper sorts out the literature, analyzes the data from the aspects of cognition, limitations, transmission channels and communication effects of intangible culture in colleges and universities, and gives countermeasures and suggestions.

The Balakat Tree Project: A Case Study on Higher Education Institutions’ Role in Climate Change Mitigation and Environmental Sustainability

This study examines the Balakat Tree Project, a sustainability initiative by Mabalacat City College (MCC), highlighting the critical role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in climate change mitigation and environmental sustainability. The project focuses on restoring and protecting the culturally and ecologically significant Balakat tree, a species vital for local biodiversity and cultural heritage. Through a mixed-methods approach combining a scoping review and case study analysis, this research demonstrates the transformative potential of HEIs in mitigating climate change and advancing sustainability efforts. The study emphasizes the importance of academic stewardship, community engagement, and conservation efforts in promoting environmental conservation and biodiversity preservation. The Balakat Tree Project is a prime example of HEIs’ leadership in sustainability initiatives, leveraging their resources to drive environmental responsibility and foster a culture of sustainability.

From tradition to recognition: analysis of the potential of the geographical indication for Saubara bobbin lace

Intellectual property generates many global studies for its understanding and application, but most of these studies are focused on standardized and already established products in markets such as coffee, beverages, cheese, among others. Saubara bobbin lace has a centuries-old tradition brought by Portuguese colonizers and transmitted orally to enslaved black people. It is an art that has not yet been formally recognized and protected in its authenticity and has distinctive characteristics that reflect the local cultural heritage. The present work aims to verify the potential of recognizing Saubara bobbin lace as a Geographical Indication (GI), aiming to promote local development, highlighting the benefits associated with valorization and legal protection, serving as an instrument of neo-industrialization. Data were collected through bibliographic and qualitative studies. Legal protection through GI tends to generate financial benefits for the artisan, the recognition and appreciation of the product and the perpetuation of this art. Saubara bobbin lace has different characteristics from those produced in other Brazilian regions, therefore with potential for recognition as GI in the species Indication of Origin.

Composition, medicinal values, and threats of plants used in indigenous medicine in Jawi District, Ethiopia: implications for conservation and sustainable use

Indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants is vital to local communities and cultural heritage, particularly in Ethiopia. This study aims to document native medicinal plants in the Jawi district, including associated traditional knowledge. The study involved conducting semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and guided field walks with a purposefully selected 54 traditional healers. The study identified 87 medicinal plant species from 50 families used treat over 50 ailments, with a preference for wild herbs. Fabaceae, Malvaceae, and Solanaceae were the most prominent families, each with five species; Zehneria scabra, was the most often mentioned species, followed by Lepidium sativum, Myrica salicifolia, Carissa spinarum, and Momordica foetida. 43% of identified species were herbs, with 44% of remedies made from roots. Pounding was the most common preparation method, and oral application was the most frequent use, followed by dermal application. 60% plants treated human ailments, 16% treated livestock, and 24% were used for both. Preference rankings indicated specific plants favored for certain ailments. The study highlights key plant families and species crucial for local healthcare but notes threats like habitat destruction and knowledge loss. Urgent conservation actions are needed to preserve medicinal plants and inform future research and strategies.

Development of Indonesian Original Medicines Study of Standardized Herbal Medicine Products "Tolak Angin" as Traditional Medicine

The use of traditional medicine continues to grow rapidly in Indonesia, reflecting the country's abundant natural and cultural wealth. One of the leading herbal medicine products is Tolak Angin, which is produced by PT. Sidomuncul Herbal and Pharmaceutical Industry, Tbk. Tolak Angin is a Standardized Herbal Medicine (OHT) that has been scientifically tested for its safety, quality, and benefits. This article presents an overview of the ingredients, production process, and clinical trials of Tolak Angin, as well as its impact in the context of Indonesian public health. By involving literature studies and secondary data analysis, this article highlights the importance of standardization in the development of effective and safe traditional medicine products. In conclusion, Tolak Angin not only represents local cultural heritage and knowledge, but also plays a vital role in providing affordable and reliable treatment alternatives for the community.

Pola Implementasi Pelatihan Batik Cap Interaktif Motif Khas Pacitan untuk Anak Usia Sekolah Dasar

The implementation pattern of interactive stamp batik training with typical motifs of Pacitan Regency for elementary school children is designed based on adaptive learning and digital technopreneurship. The purpose of this training is to introduce batik skills from an early age and equip children with technological and entrepreneurial skills. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, data was collected through observation, interviews, and document analysis. The results showed a significant increase in children's understanding and skills in making batik stamps, as well as a greater appreciation of local cultural heritage. Training also contributes to the development of technology-based entrepreneurial skills. Challenges related to limited access to technology and training materials have been successfully overcome with an adaptive and collaborative approach.

Multimodal Hong Kong: A review of policies regarding soundscape and smellscape of Chinese temples

Many people in Hong Kong regularly visit Chinese temples, and see this not necessarily as a religious activity, but as a traditional practice. Temples represent the local intangible cultural heritage. The dense urbanity and mixed population characterise Hong Kong and make it valuable to study its sounds and smells. Most temples existed earlier than modern urban areas, which grew around them. The temple soundscape consists of drums, bells, coin donations, ventilation fans, as well as chanting, especially during festivals. The smellscape consists of ritual burning of incense and paper, fruit offerings, and building materials e.g., wood and cement. The burning causes particle pollution, health concerns, and residential nuisance, that may conflict with the wish for sustaining a valuable heritage. Smells and air quality have recently become debated, raising the question of the need for a specific regulatory framework. There is currently a lack of official provision that directly protects the sounds and smells of these temples in Hong Kong. This paper reviews the current state of Hong Kong policies in regard to soundscape and smellscape, with comparison to China and France, because of the latter's progressive agenda in preserving sensory heritage in the countryside.

생태박물관 개념에 기초한 민족복식문화 전시특성 연구 - 중국 귀주(貴州) 검동남(黔東南) 지역의 사례를 중심으로

This study explores the exhibition traits of ethnic costume culture in cultural heritage locations, using the ecological museums concept. This concept aims to conserve and display heritage in its original form, with a focus on cultural ecology's sustainable development. As ethnic costume culture with local attributes, it is important to protected and displayed in the cultural location. The study extracts three dimensions: 'space,' 'time,' and 'human as cultural heritage,' and integrates ethnic costume culture content to form an exhibition characteristics framework. Through the cases analysis of southeastern of Guizhou, China, it concludes the exhibition features of ethnic costume culture under the ecological museum concept: extension in space, the vitality in time, and the dominance of the cultural owner. The conclusions hold practical significance for ethnic costume culture inheritance and development, offering theoretical support and suggestions for future research.

북한과 중국의 설화 분야 비물질문화유산 지정 현황과 시사점

The purpose of this paper is to examine the current status and implications of folktales as cultural heritage North Korea and China to find a way to designate folktales as national intangible cultural heritage. To achieve this, we reviewed the current status of folk tales designated as intangible cultural heritage in North Korea and China, focusing on their content, selection criteria, and selection methods. North Korea began designating intangible cultural heritage in 2012, and China in 2006, with folktales accounting for more than 10% of the total list. North Korea has confirmed the designation of 13 folktales as national and local intangible cultural heritage, while China has designated 167 folktales as national intangible cultural heritage. In North Korea, the first criterion for designating a folktale as an intangible cultural heritage is the fact that Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong-il, and Kim Jong-un showed interest in the tale and mentioned it. Second, it is material with content that can be used as a means of public education. Third, it is material that uniquely reflects the historical and local characteristics of North Korea. Fourth, the target of designation is the recreated current publication rather than the narrative prototype of the folktale text. The characteristics that can be confirmed through the list of designations in the field of Chinese folk tales are: First, materials from minority ethnic groups are given priority over oral literature from the Han Chinese, the mainstream ethnic group. Second, the designation is based on the region where the tale is handed down. Third, for tales that are handed down in a wide area, all of the regions where the tale is handed down are designated. Fourth, if additional areas for the transmission of folk tales designated as primary are discovered, the areas for transmission are expanded and additionally designated. Fifth, the designation targets are comprehensively designated as single works or groups of tales, and also include historical records and modern publications. The designation of Korean folktales as intangible cultural heritage can be attempted in various directions. It requires passionate efforts from the national administration and academia with an open perspective regarding the cases of North Korea and China.

Wayang-based digital storytelling: a project to promote students" collaborative and digital literacy skills

Indonesian Wayang is a cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO that must be preserved and passed toward future generations. One of the efforts to maintain wayang existence is through the insertion within educational field by the help of technology and animation in the form of digital storytelling. This research is aimed at exploring the implementation of wayang-based digital storytelling project at an Indonesian school which combined art, culture, skills, character education, cultural heritage values and global knowledge. The researchers applied narrative inquiry design in order to investigate and have in depth exploration toward the implementation of wayang-based digital storytelling within the researcher’s classroom. After having the analysis and reflection toward teaching and learning process as well as teaching documentation, it is concluded that the wayang-based project is potential to help students in addressing cultural challenges. Through the wayang media applied, the young generation know and increase their awareness to preserve the local cultural heritage. Further, the implementation of project in group using technology integration is concluded to be effective to enhace students’ collaborative, communicative, and ICT literacy which is very important in the 21 century era. Moreover, the topic which was close to socio environmental issues is expected to raise students’ awareness to be active individual to protect the surroundings. In conclusion, the application of wayang-based project within the classroom is effective and potential to strengthen Profil Pelajar Pancasila character stated in national curriculum (Kurikulum Merdeka).

Ambiguitas Identitas Visual pada Warisan Budaya Seblak

Seblak is a traditional Indonesia food that has been widely known, but its visual identity still does not reflect its cultural richness and innovative potential. Using a graphic design approach that involves a qualitative method in the form of a questionnaire for a target audience of more than 30 people, including visual analysis and in-depth interviews with stakeholders, this research aims to redesign a more modern and attractive visual identity using Alina Wheeler's design process. This visual identity focuses on the ambiguous aspect of seblak graphic design which is still said to have no icon or emblem elements that can emit deep cultural values, where these values are able to create relevant and sustainable innovations. The results of the study show that the new visual identity can increase the recognition and attractiveness of seblak restaurants, as well as make a real contribution to social change by strengthening local cultural heritage. Through a strategic design approach, Seblak is expected to reach a wider audience, including the younger generation, and strengthen its position in the global market.

Research on the Artistic Style and Singing Skills of Zhejiang Folk Songs

Zhejiang folk songs, as a gem within the realm of traditional Chinese musical culture, boast a rich array of artistic styles and distinctive vocal techniques. Their origins can be traced back to various facets of rural life, including agricultural labor, festive rituals, and folk activities, reflecting the diverse customs and cultural heritage of different regions within Zhejiang. Situated on the southeastern coast, the harmonious natural environment of Zhejiang has given rise to a variety of folk song forms, ranging from mountain ballads to farm songs and fishing tunes, each showcasing its own unique charm. Particularly, the refined and understated essence of Jiangnan culture endows Zhejiang folk songs with a poetic and delicate expression in melody and lyrics, culminating in a distinctive artistic style. The dissemination of Zhejiang folk songs is not confined to specific regions; as times change and society evolves, they have gradually integrated into contemporary art realms, becoming an essential part of national and local cultural heritage. Today, amid the diversification of popular culture, Zhejiang folk songs face the challenges of modernization and the struggle of preservation. Nevertheless, they remain a cultural symbol, carrying the memories and sentiments of traditional culture. This is not merely a testament to history but also a reflection of national emotions and artistic pursuits, deserving of in-depth study and preservation.

Green architecture in tourism sustainable development a case study at Laweyan, Indonesia

ABSTRACT The degradation of local culture is often a consequence of tourist kampung development. However, Laweyan stands out as an example where a tourist village was developed while successfully preserving both the environment and local culture. The research aims to formulate a strategy that promotes a green environment by exploring the potential characteristics of local cultural heritage and emphasizing sustainable preservation. By utilizing an exploratory descriptive method and analyzing the potential and characteristics of the area, the study identified several strategies for developing cultural heritage areas in tourism kampung. These strategies include promoting green communities, establishing green open spaces and infrastructure, implementing green waste management, adopting green transportation, prioritizing green water practices, incorporating green building techniques, and utilizing green energy sources. The implementation of green architecture is one of the key factors for success in sustainable village development. The concept of green architecture involves integrating building design and the environment with the aim of maintaining a balance between quality development and environmental preservation. The successful implementation of these strategies relies on a collaborative social approach that raises awareness and encourages active participation from both the community and the government in preserving the authenticity of the local culture.

ENGAGING INDONESIAN YOUTH WITH THE MEBUUG-BUUGAN TRADITION THROUGH THE NOVEL "SEHARI SETELAH SEPI"

This research explores the potential of novel illustrations as an educational medium for the Mebuug-buugantradition, a unique ritual from Kedonganan Village, Bali, which has been increasingly marginalized from the younger generation's knowledge. Through a qualitative approach, this study analyzes how the "slice of life" genre and anime/webtoon visual style can be utilized in the fictional novel "Sehari Setelah Sepi" to bridge the generational gap and promote local cultural heritage. Set in 2017-2018, when the Mebuug-buugan tradition was revived, the novel aims to present a relevant and engaging story for Indonesian teenagers. Analysis of literature, competitor research, and Unique Selling Proposition (USP) formed the foundation for designing practical illustrations. Research findings indicate that combining the "slice of life" genre with anime/webtoon visual style can effectively convey complex information about the history and meaning of the Mebuug-buugan tradition in a simple yet profound manner. The novel serves as entertainment and an effective educational tool for introducing Balinese cultural values to the younger generation.

APOYOnline: A Sustainable Approach to Heritage Preservation Across the Americas

ABSTRACT For 35 years, APOYOnline – Association for Heritage Preservation of the Americas has been building bridges of communication and promoting professional development in the field of heritage preservation, strengthening, empowering, and transforming our community, increasing inclusion and access, and reducing social inequalities in the Americas and in Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking countries. As a grassroots, volunteer-based, non-profit organization, we listen to the community and work to address needs caused by widely recognized discrepancies in working conditions, adverse climate conditions, social inequalities in training, and other factors that directly impact heritage preservation and to provide access to specialized technical resources. This paper presents the voices of APOYOnline and the impact of the organization’s catalyzing work in improving resource accessibility and connecting people. This work has mobilized regional and global networks, providing equal opportunities through translation of reference materials in multiple languages, professional development grants for students and emerging professionals, and training and regional networking events in underserved territories in the region. It also addresses our special community-based initiative Manos a la Obra, which strengthens long-term community engagement as a collaborative knowledge-sharing process, based on learning through participation and dialogue. The program improves access to technical information and fosters the long-term sustainability of local and regional cultural heritage preservation efforts, and has served as a model for similar activities in other countries. APOYOnline pursues sustainability through volunteer-based networking showing that communication and horizontal interaction with local communities creates awareness and better opportunities for our professionals and positively impacts heritage preservation in the region.

Challenges on the Inheritance of Traditional Wool Felt Making Skills in Zhaotong Dashanbao Loop, China

The Dashanbao Loop is dominated by high mountainous and hilly landscapes and is located on the plateau where the Jinsha River meets the Nilan River in the western Zhaoyang District of Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. There is a big temperature difference between day and night here. To keep out the cold, people will use wool to make daily necessities such as cloaks, mattresses and insoles. This material can keep moisture-proof and warm, so the traditional hand-made felt technology handed down from generation to generation is still retained. These traditional crafts not only show unique cultural value, but also become valuable local cultural heritage. However, today's globalization and the development of modern technology have brought unprecedented challenges to these traditional processes. The study systematically collects and organizes data on the traditional wool felt making techniques of the Dashanbao Loop from the perspective of intangible cultural heritage preservation, using both observation and interview methods. The study conducted field investigation and interviews with wool felt makers, and through the data obtained analyzed the transmission dilemmas faced by these traditional skills was analyzed, focusing on the challenges to their transmission and their potential solutions. According to the data, these traditional products have major challenges in these aspects: the product categories are not rich and rough, the inheritance method is single, the environment changes and the inheritor's income is low. In order to solve these problems, it is suggested to break through the existing product categories, diversify inheritance methods, improve the inheritance environment and improve the treatment of inheritors, which is more conducive to the inheritance and sustainable development of traditional crafts.

Utilization of cultural lexicon in creative industry products

Creative industries can contribute to the economic growth of local communities while promoting and preserving local languages and culture. Based on these basic assumptions, this research was conducted to describe the forms and functions of Javanese language and culture used in creative industry products and the factors behind the use of regional language and culture in creative industries. This research used a qualitative descriptive method with a sociolinguistic and creative industry perspective. The research was conducted in three local government areas in Yogyakarta. Data collection was carried out through documentation, document analyses, and interviews. The data covers various aspects of the Javanese language and culture, such as words, phrases, clauses, sentences, proverbs, Javanese script, naming and greeting systems, and proverbs. The results show that various creative industry products incorporate the Yogyakartan Javanese cultural and linguistic lexicon in their product branding, packaging, and design content. The cultural lexicon consists of Javanese writing, art, traditional clothing, drinks, greetings, phatic forms, and proverbs. Utilizing the Javanese language and cultural lexicon in creative industries can be an effective marketing strategy and an innovative step in preserving and developing local cultural heritage. This can significantly contribute to local economic growth, increase awareness of cultural diversity, and strengthen the community's cultural identity.

Evaluating the potential and development of mount telomoyo as a sustainable tourism attraction in central Java

The research investigates the diverse potential attractions of Mount Telomoyo, a natural tourist destination in Central Java, Indonesia. With a growing number of visitors each year, this study aims to analyze the key components that contribute to its appeal. Utilizing qualitative methods, including interviews, observations, and documentation, the research identifies four main components of attraction: natural beauty, cultural significance, accessibility, and amenities. The natural allure of Mount Telomoyo is heightened by its stunning landscapes, surrounded by prominent mountains and offering panoramic views of Rawa Pening and nearby cities. Culturally, the site hosts annual traditional events such as the Saparan ceremony, reflecting the local community's cultural heritage. Accessibility is also a significant factor, with easy routes to the peak, facilitated by available transportation services. Moreover, the amenities provided, including accommodations, dining options, and organized tours, enhance the overall visitor experience. The study concludes that Mount Telomoyo’s tourism potential is distinguished by its combination of natural, cultural, and man-made attractions, supported by accessible infrastructure and comprehensive services. These findings suggest that continuous development and management are essential to sustaining and increasing tourist interest in the region.