Tourism Experts Discuss Future Strategies at UNESCO UNITWIN Conference 2024 in Macao: A Global Perspective on Heritage Preservation and Recovery

Published on December 10, 2024

The 8th UNESCO UNITWIN Conference 2024, held in Zhuhai and Macao in late November, brought together global scholars and tourism experts to explore the crucial role of World Heritage in fostering resilience and advancing sustainable tourism. As part of the 50th anniversary of the World Heritage Convention, the conference emphasized the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage while promoting development that benefits local communities and enhances tourism experiences.

This year’s theme, “World Heritage as Resilience for Tourism Recovery,” focused on how heritage sites can drive resilience in the face of challenges like climate change, natural disasters, and economic disruptions. By showcasing best practices and successful models, the conference aimed to inspire collaborative efforts in heritage management, particularly in UNESCO Designated Sites.

Field Experience in Macao’s Historic Centre

A key component of the conference was the immersive field inspection of the Historic Centre of Macao, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Delegates were able to experience firsthand the rich history and architectural beauty that the region offers. Macao’s Historic Centre is an exceptional example of the fusion of Chinese and Portuguese cultures, reflected in its architecture, urban planning, and street layout.

The field visit provided participants with a practical understanding of the complexities involved in preserving such sites while accommodating tourism. This direct engagement allowed for in-depth discussions on how heritage preservation can coexist with tourism development, fostering sustainable and resilient communities.

Insights from Global Experts

In addition to the field inspection, the conference featured presentations and discussions at the UTM Mong-Há Campus, with contributions from key experts in the field. Among the prominent speakers were Professor Zhang Chaozhi from Fudan University, Professor Maria Gravari-Barbas from the University of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, and Professor Joseph Cheer from Western Sydney University. These scholars shared their expertise on sustainable tourism practices and heritage conservation, offering valuable insights for attendees.

A notable highlight of the discussions was the address by Ms. Cola Wong Sek Ieng, Senior Technician from the Cultural Affairs Bureau of Macao SAR government. She shared recent revitalization projects in Macao, focusing on how the local government is integrating cultural heritage into broader urban development and tourism strategies. The projects highlighted the importance of preserving Macao’s cultural identity while adapting to modern needs, ensuring long-term sustainability for the region.

Plenary Sessions and Knowledge Exchange

The plenary session, moderated by Professor Joseph Cheer, brought together panelists who shared successful case studies and innovative solutions for heritage management in tourist-heavy regions. Experts such as Ms. Kylie Chim, Mr. Orson Wong, and Dr. Gai Jorayev led the discussions, sharing examples of how Macao and other regions have leveraged cultural resources to strengthen local communities and promote sustainable tourism.

The session explored how tourism can support heritage preservation by generating revenue for conservation efforts. It also examined the role of local communities in the management of UNESCO World Heritage sites, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts between government bodies, businesses, and local populations.

Professor Chin Ee Ong from UTM delivered an engaging keynote presentation, focusing on modern approaches in heritage studies and how these ideas can be applied to create a more sustainable future for World Heritage sites globally. His presentation underscored the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to heritage conservation, bringing together different sectors to address the challenges facing heritage sites today.

The Future of Heritage and Tourism

The conference concluded with a renewed commitment to the idea that World Heritage sites can be integral to tourism recovery, offering a sustainable and culturally rich alternative to mass tourism. By fostering deeper connections between travelers and local communities, heritage sites can provide unique, authentic experiences that are both educational and economically beneficial.

As part of the ongoing efforts to preserve cultural heritage, the conference organizers expressed gratitude to the Cultural Affairs Bureau of Macao and the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute for their support. These partnerships are crucial for the continued success of sustainable tourism practices that balance economic development with heritage conservation.

Looking ahead, the 8th UNESCO UNITWIN Conference set the stage for further collaboration between scholars, policymakers, and local communities in the management of UNESCO World Heritage sites. The insights gained during the conference will inform future initiatives aimed at ensuring that World Heritage remains a pillar of resilience and cultural pride for generations to come.

Conclusion

The 8th UNESCO UNITWIN Conference 2024 successfully highlighted the importance of World Heritage as a tool for resilience and tourism recovery. By bringing together experts from around the world, the event fostered an exchange of ideas and strategies for safeguarding cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism. The field experience in Macao, combined with the insightful plenary sessions, offered participants a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in managing heritage sites. This event underscores the critical role of heritage in creating resilient communities and supporting the tourism sector in the post-pandemic world.

The success of the 8th UNESCO UNITWIN Conference signals a continued commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable tourism practices. Moving forward, the knowledge and partnerships formed during the event will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of heritage conservation and tourism recovery worldwide.