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Heritage list conforms to definitions in Unesco convention

In compliance with the Unesco convention, we conducted a territory-wide survey from 2009 to 2013 on the territory's intangible cultural heritage with the assistance of the South China Research Centre of Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

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Cantonese opera is an 'intangible cultural heritage' recognised by UNESCO.
I refer to the letter by Rebecca Ho ("Intangible heritage list is flawed", July 24).

In compliance with the Unesco convention, we conducted a territory-wide survey from 2009 to 2013 on the territory's intangible cultural heritage with the assistance of the South China Research Centre of Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

Expert advice was sought from the Intangible Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee on the conduct of the survey and the compilation of the first inventory on intangible cultural heritage. Following extensive research and field work, the centre submitted a draft report and detailed survey data.

After thorough discussion, the advisory committee endorsed the report and the proposed inventory.

A four-month public consultation was launched from July to November 2013 to gauge public views before finalising the inventory.

All selected items have passed the threshold of the convention's definition, that is, it is transmitted from generation to generation and provides the community and group with a sense of identity and continuity. Also, all items have fallen within the five domains set out in the convention, namely, oral traditions and expressions; performing arts; social practices, rituals and festive events; knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe; and, traditional craftsmanship.

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