Crafting With Codes: Digital Preservation and Technology Adoption in Southeast Asian Heritage

Abstract

In an increasingly digitalized world, the preservation of intangible cultural heritage particularly in crafts faces both opportunities and challenges. This study explores how Malaysian handicraft heritage agencies and artisans incorporate digital tools into knowledge transfer practices to safeguard and modernize traditional craftsmanship in the Asia Pacific Region. A qualitative case study approached was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 20 stakeholders including senior artisans, proteges and heritage agency officers. Participants were purposively selected to represent diverse age groups, roles and regional backgrounds. Thematic analysis was conducted through NVivo, emphasizing recurring patterns related to digital adoption, barriers and hybrid mentorship practices. Five major themes: (1) digital tools serve as a supplementary platform for craft documentation and sharing, (2) social media amplifies cultural visibility and market access, (3) limitations in capturing tacit knowledge remain a core challenge in digital preservation, (4) the digital divide constraints access to preservation technologies in rural areas and (5) hybrids models that combine digital resources gaining traction. Younger artisans were found to embrace platforms such as TikTok and Instagram for outreach. While senior mentors expressed concern over authenticity loss and digital dilution. This study contributes to the understanding of how local heritage intersects with global digitization trends. It offers recommendations for policymakers and cultural agencies, including expanding digital literacy programs, supporting infrastructures in underserved regions and promoting blended learning models that respect both traditional values and modern innovations.