Hainan province is diligently working to achieve global recognition for its Hainan Tropical Rainforest and the Traditional Settlements of the Li Ethnic Group, aspiring for inclusion in the prestigious World Heritage List. This initiative focuses on protecting natural beauty while catalysing economic growth through cultural heritage revitalisation, emphasised by Lyu Yan, a deputy from the National People’s Congress. “We need to protect our lush mountains while revitalising our intangible cultural heritage,” she noted.
Nestled in the central and southern parts of the island, the tropical rainforest surrounding Wuzhishan is a vital refuge for endangered species and unique flora. It is also the ancestral home of the Li people, whose distinct tribal culture has flourished for thousands of years. In a significant move, these sites were added to UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage list last year, with authorities pursuing “cultural and natural dual heritage” status.
“The Hainan rainforest is the only habitat of the Hainan gibbon and one of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots,” Lyu highlighted. This rainforest represents the most pristine continental island-type tropical rainforest in China. With their traditional boat-shaped homes and vibrant festivities, the Li culture embodies a rich historical tapestry worthy of global status.
A legal framework introduced in December aims to safeguard Li traditional settlements, ensuring their heritage is protected along with their economic potential. Lyu exemplified this through the transformation of Ganza village, boosted by the Binglanggu Li and Miao Cultural Heritage Park, proving that heritage can thrive alongside economic sustenance.
Baoting county plays a pivotal role in promoting Hainan’s cultural heritage ambitions. Lyu stated, “Baoting will leverage its rich Li and Miao cultural traditions to create a hub for cultural preservation and experience.” Through showcasing cultural depth and hosting festivals, plans are underway to convert ethnic culture into a major tourism attraction.
Plans to further the heritage bid involve refining application materials, monitoring rainforest ecosystems, and promoting Li brocade at global events like Paris Fashion Week. Enhancing tourism infrastructure and training bearers of cultural heritage are essential next steps in this endeavor.
While progress in cultural tourism has been made, Lyu called for enhanced policy support, emphasising the need for improved financial frameworks to bridge gaps in ethnic regions. “Achieving the transformation of lucid waters and lush mountains into valuable assets requires coordinated development of natural and cultural resources,” she asserted, advocating for a balance between conservation and economic advancement.
Hainan province aims for global recognition of its natural and cultural heritages, focusing on the Hainan Tropical Rainforest and Traditional Settlements of the Li Ethnic Group. Efforts include safeguarding these sites while fostering economic growth. A legal framework bolsters heritage protection, and planned initiatives aim to enhance tourism and cultural exhibitions. Lyu Yan emphasises the need for balanced development, calling for stronger policy support in ethnic regions.
In conclusion, Hainan’s aspiration for global recognition of its cultural and natural heritages reflects a harmonious blend of conservation and economic development. By protecting and revitalising the region’s unique ecosystems and traditions, Hainan aims to carve a niche on the world stage, showcasing its rich biodiversity and cultural tapestry while ensuring sustainable growth for future generations. The collaborative efforts across various sectors illuminate a path towards a thriving heritage and tourism economy.
Original Source: www.chinadaily.com.cn
