ICCROM and SEAMEO SPAFA are joining forces to address the capacity-building needs for managing urban heritage in Southeast Asia, paving the way for sustainable development in the region.
From 3 to 5 December 2024, ICCROM and SEAMEO-SPAFA convened a consultative meeting in the historic town of Songkhla, Thailand, to explore urban heritage management strategies. Experts from Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia shared insights into regional challenges and initiatives, complemented by site visits to Songkhla’s historic town and lagoon settlements to experience its rich cultural tapestry and ongoing preservation efforts firsthand.
Engaging discussions held during the workshop focused on defining the scope of urban heritage in southeast Asia, existing gaps in knowledge and skills, and the capacity building needs on urban heritage management for the region.
The workshop sparked dynamic discussions on the scope of urban heritage in Southeast Asia, pinpointing gaps in knowledge and skills and identifying priorities for capacity-building initiatives. A shared commitment emerged to foster long-term collaboration between ICCROM and SEAMEO SPAFA, advancing urban heritage management and sustainable development in the region.
This event builds on earlier workshops in the World Heritage cities of Bamberg and Urbino under ICCROM’s Urban Heritage for Sustainable Development (UH4SD) initiative. Together, these efforts aim to empower communities and safeguard Southeast Asia's diverse urban heritage.