The Vietnamese government has approved a comprehensive plan to preserve the intangible cultural heritages of ethnic minorities, led by VICAS. This initiative aims to boost socio-economic development through tourism while safeguarding traditional cultural practices across various provinces. Specific efforts will focus on various rituals and arts unique to ethnic groups, fostering a rich cultural dialogue and heritage preservation.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has green-lighted a plan dedicated to the research, restoration, and preservation of the intangible cultural heritage of ethnic minorities throughout Việt Nam. Led by the Việt Nam National Institute of Culture and Arts Studies (VICAS), this initiative is a facet of a broader national program designed to foster socio-economic advancement within ethnic and mountainous regions this year. Central to this initiative is the preservation and promotion of distinct cultural identities among these ethnic groups, intertwining cultural heritage with tourism development. The initiative encompasses various provinces including Lạng Sơn, Bắc Kạn, Hà Giang, Bắc Giang, Vĩnh Phúc, Thừa Thiên Huế, and An Giang, each rich in cultural traditions waiting to be explored. In the fourth quarter of 2024, VICAS will join forces with local tourism departments to implement various research and preservation efforts as stipulated in the national program. Lạng Sơn will highlight traditional rituals, such as the Dao people’s coming-of-age ceremony, while Bắc Kạn will focus on salvaging traditional Dao Tiền clothing patterns, integrating them into tourism strategies. Hà Giang aims at a detailed study of the Lô Lô ethnic group, while Bắc Giang’s endeavors will include preserving the Cao Lan community’s funeral house-making customs. Vĩnh Phúc will undertake surveys to understand the Soóng Cọ Folk Song’s role in everyday Sán Dìu life, cementing its significance within cultural narratives. In Thừa Thiên Huế, emphasis will be placed on the Bỏ Mả Ceremony of the Cơ Tu People, a vital ritual symbolizing ties to the deceased. An Giang will focus on a gem of Cham culture, the Rebana drum performance, ensuring its vibrant practice continues to resonate and thrive. With 53 ethnic minority groups comprising over 14 million individuals in Việt Nam, or about 14% of the total populace, this cultural preservation effort spans 58 out of 63 provinces, echoing the rich tapestry of the nation’s heritage.
This article reflects Việt Nam’s commitment to preserving its diverse and rich ethnic cultural heritage. With 53 recognized ethnic minorities, each possessing unique traditions and practices, the preservation initiative aims to safeguard these cultural identities. By intertwining these efforts with tourism, the plan not only focuses on cultural conservation but also on socio-economic stimulation in rural regions, enhancing the livelihoods of local communities.
In summary, the Vietnamese government’s plan to preserve ethnic minority heritages serves as a bridge uniting cultural conservation with economic enhancement through tourism. By actively engaging local communities and focusing on specific cultural traditions from various provinces, this initiative aims to ensure these invaluable traditions are honored and maintained for future generations, reflecting the vibrant cultural diversity of Việt Nam.
Original Source: vietnamnews.vn
