Earlier today in New Delhi, the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage gave a big thumbs up to the Chinese mainland's nomination of Hezhen Yimakan storytelling 🎉. This means the tradition has moved from UNESCO's List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding to the prestigious Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Hezhen Yimakan storytelling is a time-honoured oral tradition that brings to life folk tales and legends through expressive narration and performance. By joining the Representative List, it joins a global community of living heritage practices—from street food rituals to dance forms—that UNESCO showcases to promote cultural diversity and preservation.
For young culture buffs and heritage lovers across South and Southeast Asia, this is such an inspiring moment: a reminder of how powerful and dynamic oral storytelling can be in keeping traditions alive. 🌏✨
Excited to see more cultural gems getting their spotlight? Stay tuned for more heritage news and celebrate the voices of communities worldwide! 😊
Reference(s):
Hezhen Yimakan storytelling inscribed on UNESCO Representative List
cgtn.com
