Maritime Heritage Research Articles

National Maritime Heritage Grant Program—Preservation Grants (DOI)

National Maritime Heritage Grant Program—Preservation Grants (DOI)

Managing Shared Maritime Heritage: Australian Warships in Timor-Leste

AbstractThis article examines the effective management and governance of World War II shipwrecks with a particular focus on two Australian wartime wrecks in Timor-Leste, HMAS Voyager and HMAS Armidale. With reference to international frameworks such as the 2001 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage, as well as Timor-Leste’s evolving domestic regulations, this article explores the challenges in managing these shipwrecks and seeks to broaden the protection and preservation paradigm that defines approaches to other forms of underwater cultural heritage. Particular attention is given to balancing the interests of states, local communities and international actors, while addressing the legal, moral and environmental complexities and sensitivities associated with WWII wrecks. The article aims to contribute to the broader discourse on maritime heritage governance by providing insights into the complex and multiple challenges of managing WWII wrecks, within the context of a nation that only achieved lasting independence relatively recently.

Preface

These proceedings contain the peer-reviewed full papers presented at the joint conference ICMASS (the 6th International Conference on Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships) and MTEC (International Maritime Port Technology and Development Conference), held October 29th – 30th, 2024, in Trondheim, Norway. MTEC and ICMASS bring together academia and industry from around the world showcasing cutting-edge research and development within maritime technology, autonomous ships and port operations. https://www.ntnu.edu/mtec-icmass2024/home Trondheim, Norway’s hub for technological innovation, has utilized its rich maritime heritage to position itself at the forefront of maritime innovation. With the world’s first test area for autonomous ships, its strong position within academia and research, Trondheim has gained a leading position in the field of maritime innovation through collaboration between maritime stakeholders. This year’s conference topics include: • Green shipping and ports • Smart and autonomous ship and port operations • Maritime safety • Maritime digitalization, connectivity and cybersecurity The theme of this year’s conference, featuring contributions covering topics such as AI & autonomy, cybersecurity, onboard control, remote & shore control, smart ships as part of smart logistics, green shipping, safety evaluations, collision avoidance, regulatory & legal frameworks, as well as discussions on liability, etc. The papers, published in these proceedings contain theoretical contributions as well as reports on practical implementations in field labs and industry, and the conference will also have oral only presentation. Totally there will be more than 90 presentations, where more than 60 papers are invited. A conference such as this can only succeed as a team effort, and, as such, we thank the International Program Committee and the Reviewers for their excellent work in reviewing the papers as well as their invaluable input and advice. On behalf of the organizing committee, List of MTEC/ICMASS-24 Organizing Committee, International Programme and Management Committee and International Reviewers are available in this Pdf.

Navigating Maritime Heritage: An Immersive Virtual Tour of the USS Drum Submarine Museum

Virtual Reality (VR) technology has revolutionized the preservation and interpretation of heritage sites. This study focuses on developing an immersive 360-degree virtual tour (VT) for the USS Drum Submarine Museum in Mobile, Alabama, USA, incorporating oral histories to enhance the accessibility and visitor experiences. The project addresses the need for innovative methods to present maritime history effectively. Using Matterport technology, detailed 3D imagery of the USS Drum was captured and processed, integrating multimedia elements and oral histories from a veteran USS Drum crew member to provide a richer historical narrative. A user experience study gathered feedback from virtual visitors, who offered quantitative and qualitative responses. The research findings indicate that the VT significantly enhances visitor engagement and historical understanding, with high satisfaction rates for visual quality and oral histories, though some users experienced technical challenges and difficulties. This study demonstrates the potential of combining immersive VTs with oral histories to create engaging educational experiences, preserving the USS Drum’s legacy and making it accessible to a broader audience, including those unable to visit in person. Furthermore, this project sets a precedent for museums to leverage digital tools in preserving and promoting maritime heritage and oral histories.

Urban morphology and identity: The dock spaces of melaka on the maritime silk road

Background: This research investigates the intricate relationship between historical docks and the urban development of Melaka, a significant maritime entrepot along the Maritime Silk Road. Focusing on the physical connections and urban morphological performance, this study explores how these docks have influenced the urban morphology and architectural typology of Melaka from its earliest settlement to the present. Method: Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach that combines urban planning, architectural analysis, historical research, and extensive fieldwork, this research identifies key dock spaces along the Melaka River and examines their connections to the city's inland areas. Through historical mapping and analysis of lost docks and market spaces, as well as religious buildings, the study reveals the complex interactions between these maritime infrastructures and urban development. Result: The findings highlight numerous challenges in preserving these historical nodes, including issues related to modern urban integration and conservation. Conclusion: The research concludes with recommendations for the conservation and management of these historical sites, emphasizing their importance in preserving Melaka’s historic urban landscape. By safeguarding these cultural heritage nodes, Melaka can maintain its urban identity and continue to honor its rich maritime history. Novelty/Originality of this study: The development of a comprehensive and adaptive maritime heritage integration model in modern urban planning, which combines urban morphology, historical mapping, and socio-economic impact assessment, provides a multidimensional framework for urban planners to preserve and revitalize infrastructure nodes while accommodating contemporary urban development needs, thereby creating a balance between heritage preservation and urban progress.

Intangible maritime heritage protection in Malaysia: The need for a revision of the National Heritage Act of 2005

Malaysia, as a coastal nation, has an array of maritime cultural heritage artifacts, some of which are submerged beneath the water's surface. Despite the country's previous efforts in developing a variety of rules and regulations over the last few decades, as well as its adherence to many UNESCO accords, conventions, and treaties, several maritime heritage sites have been damaged or destroyed as a result of illegal activities, jeopardizing the preservation of this prosperous historical legacy. Malaysia should explore strengthening its existing measures and implementing specialized protective legislation and regulations to safeguard its underwater history. Moreover, it is imperative for Malaysia to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of its domestic laws pertaining to the implementation of legislation against unlawful actions. This is essential for preserving public order and ensuring adherence to the principles of justice, which are at risk of compromising its maritime heritage. As a result, Malaysia must revise its National Heritage Act of 2005 to incorporate strategies aimed at protecting its underwater history. To ensure the safeguarding of the maritime legacy for future generations, a combination of domestic efforts and cooperation at both regional and international levels is mandatory.

After the light: the reuse and replica of Canada’s historic lighthouses

ABSTRACT Lighthouses are enduring symbols of maritime heritage, representing the history and identity of coastal communities. Over the last few decades, however, these structures have been increasingly decommissioned and divested especially in response to the rise of navigational technologies and costly maintenance. Remarkably little academic scrutiny has been paid to the present and future challenges of these sites, and even less attention has been given to contexts of lighthouse closure, reuse, and replication. In response, this paper combines lighthouse infrastructure data with media analyses and qualitative interviews to explore the ‘afterlives’ of Canada’s historic lighthouses, examining their transformations and the cultural politics involved in their reuse and replica (or faux lighthouses). We argue that historic lighthouses are not only significant features of maritime heritage but also serve as contemporary sites of coastal change and growth. By studying their afterlives, the paper sheds light on the intricate and complicated lifecycles of lighthouses and the communities that depend on them. Overall, we contribute to a broader understanding of coastal heritage, emphasizing the importance of examining adaptive reuse and the emergence of replica lighthouses as practices that renegotiate established values, meanings, and emotions associated with these iconic structures.

THE BOATBUILDING PRACTICES AMONG BOATBUILDERS (TUKANG TIMBAL) IN TERENGGANU, MALAYSIA: A CASE STUDY IN WATER TRANSPORTATION, MARITIME HERITAGE AND CRAFTSMANSHIP IN ASEAN

This case study explores the boatbuilding practices among boatbuilders (Tukang Timbal) in Terengganu, Malaysia, and their significance in preserving maritime heritage and craftsmanshipin ASEAN. By examining the techniques, materials, and cultural influences involved incontemporary boat construction, the research aims to document and analyse the unique practices of these skilled artisans. Employing a qualitative researchapproach, the study combines interviews, observation, and analysis of boatbuilding processes to uncover the knowledge andskills passed down through generations of boatbuilders in Terengganu. It investigates the factors that shape their practices, including local ecological conditions, cultural traditions, and modernadvancements in technology. The research emphasises the role of boatbuilders as culturalcustodians, highlighting the importance of their craftsmanship in preserving Southeast Asianmaritime heritage. By documenting their practices and understanding their cultural significance,the study contributes to the recognition and appreciation of this unique cultural tradition. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into contemporary boatbuilding practices inTerengganu, Malaysia. Examining the techniques and materials employed by boatbuilders,the research deepens our understanding of both the cultural and technological aspects of boat construction in ASEAN today. Ultimately, this case study sheds light on the boatbuilding practices among boatbuilders in Terengganu, Malaysia, contributing to the broader discourse on maritime heritage and craftsmanship in ASEAN. By documenting their unique techniques andmaterials, the study underscores the importance of preserving and promoting these traditionalskills in order to sustain cultural heritage in a rapidly changing world.

Documenting Maritime Heritage at Risk. Digital Tools, Communities, and Institutions

Documenting Maritime Heritage at Risk. Digital Tools, Communities, and Institutions

Empowering Adolescents through Hands-on Wooden boatbuilding Training: Adapting Javanese Wooden Boat Design and Construction for a Teenage-Friendly Training Experience

In the realm of educational and cultural enrichment, empowering adolescents through hands-on wooden boatbuilding training connects them with Javanese maritime heritage. This scholarly exposition outlines a modern path for youth to engage in traditional wooden shipbuilding, emphasizing tangible skill acquisition and intangible heritage appreciation. The curriculum navigates the confluence of woodworking, mentorship, and cultural identity, fostering youth empowerment. This innovative pedagogical approach views wood sculpting as a vehicle for empowerment, creating a framework for youth-friendly learning inspired by Javanese shipwrights. The proposed model not only crafts seaworthy vessels but also shapes resilient, confident, and empowered young minds, navigating the waves of growth and identity.

Spatial Qualitative Analysis of the Marine Heritage Tourism in Bontoharu-Bontosikuyu District, The Selayar Regency

Marine cultural tourism, a developing tourism mode, has grown in popularity among tourists in recent years, indicating broad market prospects (Zheng et al., 2017). Selayar Islands Regency is an international commerce route believed to have existed since 1820. According to preliminary data, a shipwreck with ceramics and money coins was discovered in the Bontosikuyu District and its surrounds in China. It is believed that these coins circulated throughout the archipelago between the 11th and 14th centuries. However, the vast potential has not been realized. In addition, there is a risk of local populations exploiting maritime cultural heritage objects for economic gain. This study is to investigate the potential of marine heritage as a new tourism destination in the Selayar Islands Regency. This research methodology is spatial qualitative, with spatial analysis using the ArcGIS application followed by qualitative identification of tourism potential using the 3A approach (attractions, amenities, accessibility). The study identified numerous prospective places based on interviews with stakeholders and study literature for marine heritage tourism that could serve as a tourist route. The proposed route has yet to be tested. Its potential is based solely on observation results; literature reviews; and conversations with stakeholders. This research aims to identify prospective maritime heritage routes in the Selayar Islands Regency. The study's findings indicate that the potential for marine heritage tourism packages in Selayar Regency is enormous but due to a lack of attention, it requires significant improvement and development in terms of attractions, accessibility, and amenities.

Structure Design and Strength Analysis of the Glass Reinforcement Plastic (GRP) Malay Traditional “Perahu Bedar”

The Perahu Bedar, a traditional fishing boat in the Terengganu region of Malaysia, has been historically crafted from Cengal wood. In response to challenges posed by wood scarcity and limitations in skilled craftsmen, this study pioneers the exploration of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) as a novel alternative material for constructing the traditional Perahu Bedar, measuring 4.32 meters in length. Through a rigorous analysis, the research delves into the structural design intricacies and strength attributes of the GRP Perahu Bedar, marking a significant departure from conventional wood-based construction methods. The study conducts a comprehensive analysis of the structure design and strength characteristics of the GRP Perahu Bedar. The weight, buoyancy force, and load distribution along the boat are analyzed. The data shows varying weight and buoyancy forces along the stations, with positive load values indicating upward forces contributing to buoyancy and negative load values representing downward forces. This analysis provides insights into the boat’s stability and distribution of forces. The sheer force and bending moment along the Perahu Bedar are evaluated. The sheer force values gradually increase or decrease along the boat, while the bending moment is highest at the midsection and decreases towards the ends. These results indicate the distribution of forces and stress on the boat’s structure, aiding in understanding its integrity and stability. The Factor of Safety (FoS) analysis demonstrates a FoS value of 2.2368, indicating a safety margin greater than 1. This suggests that the GRP Perahu Bedar design meets safety requirements and can withstand applied 
 
 stresses without exceeding yield strength. The FoS value provides assurance of structural integrity and safety during normal operating conditions. In summary, this study underscores the groundbreaking potential of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) as a viable alternative to traditional wooden Perahu Bedar due to very high cost of Cengal Wood (wood that been used to build Peahu Bedar). By meticulously analyzing critical factors such as weight, buoyancy, load, shear force, bending moment, and Factor of Safety (FoS), the research offers invaluable insights into the structural integrity and safety aspects of GRP Perahu Bedar. These revelations not only herald a new era of sustainable and cost-effective boatbuilding practices but also serve as a crucial step towards safeguarding and perpetuating the rich maritime heritage of the region.

Maritime China, sea temples, and contested heritage in the Indian Ocean

ABSTRACT This article examines the complex interplay between heritage, cultural identity, and state power, as exemplified by the contested heritage discourse surrounding a sea temple and the Chinese cult of Guandi in Mauritius. The main temple of Guandi in Mauritius abound in aquatic and oceanic manifestations, which stand in sharp contrast with state-endorsed, land-based Guandi temples in China. This contrast suggests a distinct cultural identity of the Chinese society in the Southwest Indian Ocean region. As reflected in the narratives of both Mauritian and Chinese authorities, the temple and cult also figure prominently in the re-imagining of Mauritian nation building and China’s Maritime Silk Road Initiative. Drawing on critical heritage studies and the revitalised academic focus on sea temples that revisits the overlooked maritime connectivity, this article demonstrates how a historically-forged transoceanic identity in the name of Guandi is being contested by the new processes of heritagisation initiated by the Mauritian and Chinese states and how appreciation of the maritime heritage of Chinese diaspora in the Indian Ocean can re-emerge when the interpretation of the cult shifts from its role as one component of Mauritian and Chinese national heritage to its unorthodox oceanic reinvention.

The Mediterranean as sepulcrum nostrum: drowned refugees, commemorative artworks and maritime heritage of the future

ABSTRACT Long considered a cultural contact zone, the Mediterranean has become a weaponised border zone keeping refugees from Africa and the Middle East away from ‘Fortress Europe’. The Mediterranean has become excessively dangerous to cross, leading many commentators to call this maritime space a ‘massive graveyard’. The widespread indifference and enmity towards migrants in Europe is, amongst other things, countered by documentary and commemorative projects by artists drawing attention to the suffering of drowned refugees. In this paper, I zoom in on documentary and memorial artistic projects by Mimmo Paladino, Jason deCaires Taylor, Christoph Büchel, Ai Weiwei and Đỉnh Q. Lê. In the frequent absence of dead bodies and specific grave sites on the ‘high seas’, they make claims regarding the humanity, singularity and memorability of the human lives of refugees drowned at sea. Based on a description of the artworks and their public, I make two interlinked theoretical arguments. First, the commemorative materialisations by contemporary artists are temporal claims to constitute the cultural heritage of the future. Second, given the sea’s aquatic materiality, the commemorative claims of these art projects require that commemorative materialisations must spatially move from the flux of the sea to the fixity of the land.

Revisiting heritage in the ocean: common heritage of [Hu]mankind, maritime heritage and beyond?

ABSTRACT By zeroing in on the term ‘heritage’ in the most important international legal instrument on oceans – the 1982 Convention on the Law of the Sea (LOSC), this article explores how the concept of the Common Heritage of [Hu]mankind and maritime heritage are produced and deployed in the global legal project of ocean-ordering and the implications thereof. The Common Heritage of [Hu]mankind concept embodies and enacts a dominant resource-centric framing of the ocean. This framing prioritises and valorises the material and economic value of the deep seabed, thereby transmuting it into an oceanless exploitable common. The LOSC, with minimal cultural preoccupation, also conceptualises and confines maritime heritage within a narrow land-based and material-centric understanding of heritage that often prioritises state control and claims. This is because the LOSC is constrained and shaped both by the metaphysical, geographical, and legal tendency of ocean parcelisation and by the authorised heritage discourse that conditions how heritage is understood and practiced. We conclude by suggesting taking the Middle Passage as an analytical provocation, that is to recognise the mutually constitutive and constituting relationship between the Middle Passage and the (Atlantic) Ocean, to enable critical reflections and alternative perspectives on heritage-making in ocean environment.

Fish to finance: unraveling the economic threads of Bangladesh's Blue Economy

Bangladesh, with its extensive river network, vast coastlines, and rich maritime heritage, stands at the crossroads of a transformative Blue Economy. This comprehensive review explores the rich tapestry of Bangladesh's maritime journey. Commencing with a historical lens, it traces the nation's roots in fisheries, showcasing its transformation into a diversified and dynamic Blue Economy. The significance of this transition unfolds across the review, underscoring the sector's contributions to GDP, employment, and food security, while candidly addressing challenges such as overfishing and environmental impact. This work not only chronicles historical milestones but distills valuable lessons from both successes and setbacks, offering a nuanced understanding of the economic resilience embedded in Bangladesh's fisheries sector. Beyond a historical retrospective, the review navigates through the contemporary landscape, emphasizing diversification beyond fisheries. It illuminates economic opportunities in maritime trade, explores non-fish marine resources, and delves into the transformative role of aquaculture. The policy framework governing Bangladesh's Blue Economy comes into focus, dissecting government strategies, legal landscapes, and international collaborations. The review also champions environmental sustainability, highlighting the impact of Blue Economy activities on marine ecosystems and advocating for conservation measures, thus positioning Bangladesh as a steward of its rich maritime heritage. Financial mechanisms and investments emerge as pivotal elements, shaping the trajectory of Blue Economy projects, as evidenced by case studies that weave success stories and lessons learned into the narrative. Concluding with a forward-looking perspective, the study identifies emerging trends, growth opportunities, and strategies to tackle challenges, offering a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable development. In weaving together economic vibrancy, environmental stewardship, and future aspirations, this review illuminates Bangladesh's maritime odyssey as a beacon for the global Blue Economy community. Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. 2024, 10(1), 9-41

Histoire et culture maritimes en Indonésie : mise en œuvre dans l’apprentissage des études sociales

This research explores the integration of Indonesia's maritime history and culture into Social Studies education. Indonesia, as the world's largest archipelagic nation, possesses a rich maritime heritage and diverse culture that significantly shape national identity and promote sustainable economic development. The study delves into Indonesia's historical maritime background, including its pivotal role in global trade routes and cultural development. It encompasses maritime kingdoms like Srivijaya, Majapahit, and Makassar as well as the influences of China, India, and the Arab world on maritime culture and trade. The article highlights Indonesia's maritime cultural traditions, fostering appreciation for cultural diversity, environmental sustainability, and responsible attitudes towards marine resources. Various methods, including field research, multimedia resources, and interdisciplinary collaborations, can be employed to implement Indonesia's maritime history and culture into IPS education. This integration enables students to develop a holistic understanding of society, economy, and marine environments. By incorporating Indonesia's maritime heritage, students gain an understanding of marine conservation and sustainable economies, while embracing local wisdom applicable to their daily lives. Ultimately, this implementation fosters a generation that values marine environments, respects cultural diversity, and contributes to sustainable development, providing a solid foundation for understanding history, culture, and the significance of maritime affairs in Indonesia. Keywords: maritime history, maritime culture, social studies, sustainability

Maritime Heritage and the Belt and Road Initiative: A Historiographical Perspective on Malaysia's Journey as a Maritime Nation

The seas and oceans have traditionally been a source of inspiration in the search for truth, and has gone on to successfully negate the human worldview that associated it with various elements of mythos and superstition. The seas and oceans also have their own advantages in that they have strengthened the relationship between countries and helped form a united spirit, mutual understanding, unity, and generate wealth. It is an invaluable, irreplaceable, and unmodifiable treasure. In the traditional narratives of the Malay World, the close tie between "sea-folk" and seas such as the South China Sea, the Sulu Sea, the Sulawesi Sea, the Flores Sea, the Java Sea, the Banda Sea, and so on which are all found within in the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean is undeniable. In fact, it is no exaggeration to say that the changes and developments that exist in the Southeast Asian region today, i.e. from bearing the characteristics of traditional governments to becoming modern nations are anchored to the seas and oceans, and the role played by seafaring tribesmen who had the seas run in their blood. However, nowadays it seems that these services and sacrifices for thousands of years seem to have remained only in the annals of history and not been paid much heed to. The emergence of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) doctrine introduced by China in 2013 appears to have given new hope to the seas and oceans to be elevated once again and used as an agenda for development by various countries in the region. Hence, this paper aims to discuss several terms, concepts and scopes in marine discipline; the importance of marine history teaching in the region from a histiographical perspective; the extent of how far the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) doctrine has been given serious attention by Malaysia towards becoming a maritime state; the opportunities and obstacles challenges; and some prerequisites to be taken into account in making this mission and vision for Malaysia a reality.

Maritime Heritage and the Belt and Road Initiative: A Historiographical Perspective on Malaysia's Journey as a Maritime Nation

The seas and oceans have traditionally been a source of inspiration in the search for truth, and has gone on to successfully negate the human worldview that associated it with various elements of mythos and superstition. The seas and oceans also have their own advantages in that they have strengthened the relationship between countries and helped form a united spirit, mutual understanding, unity, and generate wealth. It is an invaluable, irreplaceable, and unmodifiable treasure. In the traditional narratives of the Malay World, the close tie between "sea-folk" and seas such as the South China Sea, the Sulu Sea, the Sulawesi Sea, the Flores Sea, the Java Sea, the Banda Sea, and so on which are all found within in the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean is undeniable. In fact, it is no exaggeration to say that the changes and developments that exist in the Southeast Asian region today, i.e. from bearing the characteristics of traditional governments to becoming modern nations are anchored to the seas and oceans, and the role played by seafaring tribesmen who had the seas run in their blood. However, nowadays it seems that these services and sacrifices for thousands of years seem to have remained only in the annals of history and not been paid much heed to. The emergence of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) doctrine introduced by China in 2013 appears to have given new hope to the seas and oceans to be elevated once again and used as an agenda for development by various countries in the region. Hence, this paper aims to discuss several terms, concepts and scopes in marine discipline; the importance of marine history teaching in the region from a histiographical perspective; the extent of how far the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) doctrine has been given serious attention by Malaysia towards becoming a maritime state; the opportunities and obstacles challenges; and some prerequisites to be taken into account in making this mission and vision for Malaysia a reality.

PRESERVING OUR SHIPS FOR POSTERITY – A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO MANAGING HISTORIC SHIP PROJECTS

Historic ships are an essential part of the United Kingdom’s maritime heritage, but their ongoing conservation faces many challenges. These include an ongoing requirement for maintenance that extends beyond the vessel’s working life, unsustainable financial cycles, and the loss of skills necessary for repairs and restoration. To support the owners of historic ships through conservation projects, Beckett Rankine has developed the “Engineered Conservation” method. This applies a holistic perspective, a focus on the requirements of the vessel and owner, consideration of all key stakeholders, and commitment to proactive and continuous maintenance to achieve sustainable conservation. The principles and application of this method are presented through four case studies, using vessels at different stages in their conservation projects. Through these, the successes and limitations of the engineered conservation method are identified and discussed, allowing conclusions to be drawn on its effectiveness.