DECOLONISING CULTURAL PRESERVATION: LEVERAGING DIGITAL MEDIA FOR THE PROTECTION OF HAKKA HERITAGE

Abstract

This study critically examines the role of emerging digital technologies in preserving Hakka cultural heritage within the broader discourse of media and cultural sovereignty. The research highlights the importance of engaging younger generations in this process and investigates how digital tools can mediate the interaction between folklore and modern technology. Drawing on field observations, interviews, and community participation, the findings reveal that while digital technologies offer innovative possibilities for heritage preservation, they also carry significant risks of commodification and cultural homogenization. These challenges underscore the need to integrate local cultural values and ensure that digital representations remain faithful to the authentic practices and identities of the Hakka community. The study emphasizes the necessity of collaborative, culturally grounded digital strategies that reflect both local aspirations and global best practices. By centring Hakka voices and advocating for contextually relevant approaches, this research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of how digital technologies can empower ethnic communities and maintain cultural integrity in the digital age.