Getting tangible: Hong Kong seeks to spread the message on intangible cultural heritage

Hong Kong Cultural Festival will highlight the likes of Hakka kung fu and Chinese puppetry

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Cantonese Opera is the only item on Hong Kong’s list that has been declared part of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage. Photo: SCMP Pictures

Published: 11:02am, 27 Aug 2016Updated: 11:02am, 27 Aug 2016

As the city gears up for its second annual Hong Kong Culture Festival, experts say the government needs to put more resources into preserving intangible cultural heritage and the city should look towards gaining greater recognition for it.

Featuring age-old traditions like Hakka kung fu and Chinese puppetry, the festival will run from September 2 to October 22.

Its aim is to be a platform for Hongkongers to rediscover their heritage and promote awareness of the importance of preserving culture, said organiser Hing Chao, founder and chairman of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Earthpulse Society.

“The festival will showcase cutting-edge digital media and technology,” Chao said.

“[It will also include] certain aspects of Chinese cultural practises which are not currently listed as [intangible heritage], including Chinese ink art.”

It has been two years since the government released and vowed to safeguard its list of 480 intangible cultural heritage items. The Intangible Cultural Heritage Office was set up last year to create more promotional and educational activities for the public, and a special centre was launched at the Sam Tung Uk Museum in Tsuen Wan in June.