From Kuala Lumpur to virtual galleries, culture is getting a tech makeover—and vice versa. At the recent Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting, Wong Foon Meng, former president of Malaysia’s Dewan Negara, delivered a timely reminder: culture and innovation can and must coexist.
“In fact, some of the most powerful innovations are born from re-interpreting our heritage in ways that resonate with new generations,” he said, emphasizing a dynamic relationship that transcends borders.
Across the globe, this synergy is reshaping design and entertainment. In Malaysia, artisans are collaborating with coders to create digitally revamped batik patterns that light up augmented-reality exhibits. Meanwhile, in the Chinese mainland, studios are transforming traditional ink painting into immersive VR experiences—inviting young audiences to step inside centuries-old landscapes.
For entrepreneurs and startups, these trends open doors to new markets and cross-cultural partnerships. By blending local craft with cutting-edge tech, brands are not only preserving traditions but also driving sustainable growth—demonstrating that heritage can be a springboard for innovation.
Thought leaders and changemakers see this fusion as a blueprint for global collaboration. When creative industries leverage data-driven insights—like tracking visitor engagement in digital exhibitions or mapping consumer interest in heritage apps—they gain actionable takeaways to refine experiences and measure impact.
Travelers and digital nomads are also part of the story. As they chase authentic experiences, they’re discovering pop-up cultural labs and hackathons that celebrate local history through coding challenges, art residencies, and interactive performances.
Wong’s message is clear: when we embrace our roots through a modern lens, we unlock a world where culture and innovation strengthen each other—fueling creativity, economic opportunity, and cross-border dialogue.
As we look ahead, the challenge is to keep traditions alive in a rapidly changing world—through collaboration, tech-savvy approaches, and a shared passion for both past and future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
