In recent years, China has made significant progress in safeguarding its intangible cultural heritage (ICH). According to a report published by China Economic Net, 43 Chinese cultural traditions, like the Nanjing Yunjin brocade weaving technique, the Twenty-Four Solar Terms, and Tai Chi, have received recognition from UNESCO. This recognition highlights the brilliance of Chinese culture and breathes new life into the preservation of ICH.
Bamo Qubumo, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and representative in the National People’s Congress, expressed her enthusiasm when Spring Festival became part of UNESCO’s Representative List. This milestone not only emphasises the importance of traditional culture globally but also supports economic development through cultural industries. Products like the game Black Myth: Wukong and the animated film Ne Zha demonstrate this fusion of ICH with contemporary media, enchanting audiences around the world.
Bamo Qubumo, hailing from Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, passionately advocates for ICH as a means to empower women in rural areas. She argues that ICH can sustain livelihoods, showcasing initiatives such as craft workshops that blend skill preservation with financial independence. Through these channels, women can revitalise traditions while fostering their economic growth.
A prime example of this initiative is found in Yi embroidery from Nanhua County, Yunnan Province. With fewer women learning traditional needlework, the craft risked decline. Sensing this, Ding Lanying and fellow embroiderers initiated a project in 2006 to revive the practice, documenting 72 stitching techniques. Presently, their efforts have led to 14,304 artisans receiving training, elevating the industry’s value from 83.16 million yuan to 1.18 billion yuan since 2022.
Bamo Qubumo pointed out that preserving ICH is a responsibility that transcends borders, urging global cooperation. China’s successful models, like the “Meishan Experience” and the “Shilin Model,” have gained international acclaim. However, she cautions against the over-commercialisation of ICH, where some exploit traditional heritage for profit. This concern has prompted her to propose enhanced protection mechanisms during China’s Two Sessions, advocating for a focus on inheritance and a robust legal framework for digital preservation.
Moreover, Bamo calls for incorporating ICH education into schools and public programs, fostering broader community engagement in cultural heritage preservation. As technology rapidly evolves, it presents both opportunities and challenges for safeguarding ICH. Therefore, it is essential to adapt and strengthen legal measures while ensuring the essence of ICH remains a lived tradition rather than mere relics.
China has made remarkable advancements in safeguarding its intangible cultural heritage, with 43 traditions recognised by UNESCO. Bamo Qubumo highlights the economic and cultural significance of ICH, particularly how it empowers rural women. Despite success stories, challenges like over-commercialisation exist. Bamo encourages global cooperation and robust protection mechanisms to ensure ICH remains a vibrant aspect of life.
In conclusion, China is actively advancing the preservation of its intangible cultural heritage, highlighted by UNESCO’s recognition of numerous traditions. Through initiatives empowering women and community engagement, ICH demonstrates its potential as both cultural and economic wealth. However, challenges such as over-commercialisation persist, necessitating enhanced protective measures. The call for global cooperation and stronger legal frameworks in the digital age remains crucial in maintaining the vitality and authenticity of this cherished cultural legacy.
Original Source: www.nation.com.pk
