International Experts Gather in Taipei to Shape Maritime Cultural Policy

Taiwan Advances Maritime Heritage Discussions at International Conference

The inaugural International Conference on Maritime Cultural Policy, organized by the Ocean Affairs Council (OAC), concluded on November 5 in Taipei City. The event highlighted the government’s commitment to developing forward-looking strategies to preserve and promote Taiwan’s maritime heritage. This one-day conference featured three-panel discussions that focused on maritime cultural policymaking, traditional shipbuilding, history, and culture. Local scholars, along with experts from Denmark, Japan, and South Korea, participated in these discussions. Additionally, two OAC student grant recipients were given the opportunity to present their research projects during a dedicated session.

The conference also showcased several key presentations by known experts including Prof. Chen Jeng-horng from National Cheng Kung University who discussed his research on the conservation of ancient ships in Taiwan. Master boat builder Ohshiro Kiyoshi from Okinawa shared his expertise on the traditional crafting of sabani, Okinawa’s iconic wooden boat. Furthermore, Prof. Yoo Chul-in from Jeju National University provided an overview of efforts to protect the cultural heritage of Jeju's haenyeo, the female divers of South Korea.

OAC Deputy Minister Wu Mei-hung emphasized Taiwan’s strategic geographic location and its rich historical background. She noted that Taiwan is home to a wealth of maritime assets, both tangible and intangible, including the ipanitika, traditional fishing boats of the Indigenous Tao people on Orchid Island, the stone weir in Penghu County, and the anti-landing spikes located on the beaches of Kinmen County.

As a maritime country, Taiwan is deeply committed to preserving and promoting its oceanic culture. The Deputy Minister expressed optimism that this event would help advance research in the field, inspire new policy recommendations, and enhance Taiwan’s global visibility in maritime cultural preservation. In conclusion, the conference successfully highlighted Taiwan's commitment to preserving its maritime heritage, fostering international collaboration, and advancing research to ensure a continued promotion of oceanic culture.

Editor's Note:  

The inaugural International Conference on Maritime Cultural Policy held by the Ocean Affairs Council marks an important step in Taiwan’s efforts to preserve and promote its rich maritime heritage. This event not only provided a platform for local and international experts to share valuable insights on maritime culture and policy but underscored Taiwan’s commitment to fostering global dialogue on the conservation of its seafaring traditions. By exploring diverse maritime cultures and historical practices, the conference highlighted the importance of safeguarding intangible maritime heritage while inspiring innovative policy solutions for the future. 

Skoobuzz applauds the Ocean Affairs Council for leading this important conversation and looks forward to seeing how these discussions will shape future maritime cultural policies.