ASEAN launches digital archive of region’s cultural heritage

27 February 2020 -

The first digital archive of the valuable historical and cultural heritage of ASEAN member states was launched today, according to a written statement issued by ASEAN Secretariat and received here Thursday. The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) website showcases over 160 digitized heritage items from Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

The ACHDA project is an important step in ASEAN’s pursuit towards enhancing the public’s understanding and appreciation of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the region, Deputy-Secretary General of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Kung Phoak stated in his opening remarks. “I hope ASEAN citizens using the website will better appreciate the shared cultural heritage and instill in them a greater regional sense of belonging as we work towards fostering ASEAN identity. Today’s launching of the ACHDA website is timely as we celebrate the 2020 Year of ASEAN Identity,” Kung Phoak said.

Anyone can access the cultural heritage easily and instantly through this ACHDA website anytime and anywhere, Japan Ambassador to ASEAN Akira Chiba further mentioned. “This is an innovative project benefitting not only ASEAN but the whole world. It is my pleasure to see advanced Japanese technology playing an indispensable role to launch this project using JAIF,” Chiba said.

The project is supported by the government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).