“First Principles” in Conservation: The UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards

RICHARD A. ENGELHARDT

This article, based on the 2009 APT Asia’s Endangered Heritage: The and houses provide a connection with College of Fellows lecture, explores Conservation Imperative earlier times, serving as physical re- minders of people, events, and values award-winning projects and how Culture is the source of our identities, and providing tangible spaces in which providing a set of values on which to they illustrate a consensus about intangible forms of culture can be ex- base our lives and a frame of reference powerful “first principles,” which are pressed. The conservation of local, for our actions. The diversity of cultures national, and regional physical-cultural anchored by international is a source of creativity, innovation, and resources is pre-requisite to sustaining conservation standards while also renewal and is vital for the continuity of equitable social and economic develop- human development. Emanating from reflecting regional specificities. ment. Our built heritage is also valuable our cultures are the tangible and intan- for its aesthetic beauty and symbolic gible manifestations of this heritage. qualities and for the emotions that they The built heritage, which provides the inspire. Yet our historic cities and the physical space for the non-physical buildings and public spaces of which expressions of culture, constitutes one they are constituted are increasingly of the most varied, complex, and elo- under threat from the twenty-first- quent manifestations of tangible cul- century requirements for housing, com- tural heritage. merce, transportation, and public ser- Built heritage is a physical represen- vices linked to development and mod- tation of culture and of cultural diver- ernization. sity. Monuments, religious buildings, The basic question we must confront is this: How do we balance the preserva- tion of the heritage significance of our built environment with the transforma- tions required by modernization? Nowhere is this question more press- ing than in the Asia-Pacific region, where the twin juggernauts of politics and development have swept before them centuries of historic environments. Unaddressed threats from development and modernization have too often re- sulted in negative consequences such as: • dismemberment of heritage sites, with resultant loss of integrity • dilapidation and structural deteriora- tion of the fabric of the region’s built environment, to the point where it can no longer adequately support the human uses for which it is intended • replacement of original components with counterfeit and non-indigenous technologies and materials • loss of the sense of place of the re- gion’s heritage sites through inappro- Fig. 1. Embodying Principle 1: Leh Old Town Community Conservation Project, Ladakh, India. All images copyright UNESCO 2007 and reproduced with permission. priate reconstruction processes that

57 58 APT BULLETIN: JOURNAL OF PRESERVATION TECHNOLOGY / 41:2-3, 2010

homogenize their unique characteris- practices that result in preservation and The Jury Commendation for Innova- tics catalyze other projects within the same tion was inaugurated in 2005 to recog- • disenfranchisement of the heritage communities and beyond. nize innovative new buildings that have from the traditions of community use Since its establishment, the program been integrated into historic districts. At the same time, the Asia-Pacific re- has brought to public attention a note- The submissions tackle head-on the key gion is also the crucible for forging worthy body of work. From 2000 issues facing the conservation profession creative new strategies for heritage through 2009, more than 500 entries everywhere, namely: conservation that are based on living were received from 23 countries, of • Is it possible to adapt heritage build- traditions of cultural practice and com- which 91 projects have been recognized ings for contemporary needs and still munity stewardship. With an over- with awards. Winners represent a broad retain their heritage significance? whelming percentage of historic struc- spectrum of the region’s built heritage • How do we insert contemporary tures in private hands, issues of restora- and testify to how buildings can be architecture into the historic urban tion and adaptive reuse of heritage successfully preserved in their traditional landscape? settings. They also demonstrate how buildings inevitably become a part of • To what extent is change possible if every policy debate. conservation principles can be integrated into various local development strate- historic districts are to maintain their Recognizing the value of built her- character and identity? itage both as a source of cultural mem- gies. • Most crucially, is historic conserva- ory and a resource for sustainable devel- Submissions reflect the public con- tion a mainstream action key to opment, UNESCO supports efforts cern for the continuity of local cultural sustainability strategies or only a worldwide to preserve built heritage. expression. The range of religious build- minor diversion in the development The 1972 Convention concerning the ing awards — Chinese ancestral temples, process? Protection of the World Cultural and Buddhist monasteries, Hindu shrines, Natural Heritage (popularly known as Sikh gurudwaras, Muslim mosques, The winning entries offer proof that the World Heritage Convention) forms Christian churches, and Jewish syna- the answer to these questions is every- the framework for international action gogues — collectively reflect the diverse where a resounding yes, and they dem- in the conservation of immovable tangi- living traditions of the region. Secular onstrate that while conservation is ble heritage.1 The principles enshrined in buildings receiving awards include grounded in universal principles, it is the convention and its Operational monumental structures, such as forts expressed in specific cultural practices Guidelines extend not only to the safe- and palaces; non-monumental buildings, that vary from place to place because of guarding of World Heritage sites but such as houses, factories, schools, shops, environment, politics, tradition, and, also other significant heritage sites. and other commercial buildings; and most importantly, the perception of the public infrastructure, such as bridges. value of heritage in each community. Awards have also gone to large-scale Stimulating Private-Sector Initiatives projects involving the protection and Awards Criteria for Heritage Conservation rehabilitation of gardens, streetscapes, A key component of UNESCO’s strat- canal and waterfront districts, in-situ The selection process for the awards egy to promote the conservation in the archaeological sites, and historic urban program is rigorous and is conducted region is the annual Asia-Pacific Her- quarters. The winners also include a annually by a panel of international itage Awards for Cultural Heritage representative slice of vernacular struc- experts in conservation architecture, Conservation, a program that was tures. urban planning, landscape design, and inaugurated in 2000 to coincide with Every year detailed project dossiers heritage resource management, all of the beginning of the new millennium are submitted for consideration for an whom practice professionally in the and was developed to respond to the award from every country and territory Asia-Pacific region. question, Within the realities of contem- around the Asia-Pacific region, from To qualify, buildings must be more porary, fast-track development, what do Antarctica to Uzbekistan, testifying to than 50 years old; the restoration work we, as Asians, want to preserve from the universal concern about conserva- must have been completed within the the past to inform our place in the tion of cultural places through the conti- last 10 years; and buildings must have global future? nuity of traditional building practice, been in viable use for at least one year. Strategically positioned at the center thus firmly debunking the sometimes- Residential, commercial, cultural, reli- of the often-heated debate between heard ideas that conservation is a gious, industrial, and institutional build- “Western principles” and “Asian val- “Western” preoccupation and a luxury ings and historic towns, gardens, and ues,” the awards establish a means of of concern only to the developed econo- bridges are eligible. The project must identifying and showcasing the most mies of the world. The entries also have been carried out with private- successful examples of best practices in highlight practical issues, ranging from sector input in the form of ownership, the region — practices which are as the disappearance of traditional materi- funding, or other support. Public-private often values-based as they are technical. als, skills, and techniques to the eco- partnership projects are especially en- The awards recognize private-sector nomic and political forces driving urban couraged to apply. achievements and public-private initia- densification and distorting property Since the program’s establishment in tives and encourage both policies and values. 2000, the selection criteria have evolved: “FIRST PRINCIPLES” IN CONSERVATION 59 greater emphasis has been placed on the assessment and understanding of the significance of a place. Not only has this focus encouraged applicants to clearly define the heritage values of projects, it has led to a fuller interpretation of the projects; thus helping to generate greater awareness of the importance of heritage conservation in the region. Entries are evaluated for excellence in the following 11 criteria, which are grouped into three distinct categories: spirit of place, technical excellence, and impact.2 Spirit of place. The first three criteria together emphasize the importance of safeguarding the spirit of place in the conservation process. Without unquali- fied success in this pre-requisite cate- gory, a project, however technically proficient, cannot be considered suc- cessful. These criteria are: • the articulation of the structure’s Fig. 2. Embodying Principle 2: Wat Sratong Temple Restoration Project, Thailand. heritage values in order to convey the spirit of place through the conserva- catalyze further efforts in conservation servation in the region; they have tion work as an act of development. The indica- evolved and been validated through • appropriate use or adaptation of the tors of these impacts, which may be professional practice over the past two structure economic, social, or political, comprise decades: the following: • Collective mapping of cultural space, • the interpretation of the cultural, • the manner in which the process and its hierarchies, symbolic language, social, historical, and architectural the final product contribute to the and associations is a pre-requisite for significance of the structure(s) in the surrounding environment and the appropriate and successful conserva- conservation work local community’s cultural and his- tion. Technical excellence. The next four torical continuum • Tangible cultural expressions derive criteria emphasize technical excellence, • the influence of the project on conser- their origin, value, and continuing judged both by international standards vation practice and policy locally, significance from intangible cultural and by the standards of traditional nationally, regionally, or internation- practices. practice. These criteria argue that tech- ally • Authenticity, the defining characteris- nical expertise is not a relative concept • the ongoing socioeconomic viability tic of heritage, is a culturally relative but is determined by exacting profes- and relevance of the project and pro- characteristic to be found in continu- sional standards. The four criteria are: vision for its future use and mainte- ity, but not necessarily continuity of • the understanding of the technical nance material. issues of conservation/restoration in • the complexity, sensitivity, and tech- • The conservation process succeeds interpreting the structure’s signifi- nical consistency of the project when histories are revealed, tradi- cance methodology tions revived, and meanings recov- • the use and quality control of appro- The UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage ered in a palimpsest of knowledge. priate building, artisan, and conser- Award winners consistently demon- vation techniques • Appropriate use of heritage is negoti- strate that technical achievement in ated, resulting in a life-enhancing • the use of appropriate materials conservation must be underpinned by a space. • how well any added elements or profound understanding of conserva- Together, these first principles affirm creative technical solutions respect tion as a social process. a set of professional norms that have the character and inherent spatial arisen out of a uniquely Asian physical quality of the structure(s) First Principles for Conserving Asia’s and socio-cultural space. Heritage Impact. The final four criteria relate to Principle 1: Collective mapping of the impact the project has in the com- In the winning entries there is an emerg- cultural space, its hierarchies, sym- munity and within the profession to ing consensus around a set of powerful bolic language, and associations is a influence conservation practice and to “first principles” guiding heritage con- 60 APT BULLETIN: JOURNAL OF PRESERVATION TECHNOLOGY / 41:2-3, 2010 pre-requisite for appropriate and benefited the heritage but also improved ogy, art and photographic research, successful conservation. Conserva- the quality of life of residents and now comparative analogies, technical investi- tion professionals and students are serve as models for additional work in gation, and computer modelling, the taught that conservation work should the town (Fig. 1). conservation and restoration process begin with a thorough investigation of In Broken Hill, Australia, a 2002 returned one of the most important the building. By studying historical Honourable Mention, a vibrant partner- colonial heritage landmarks in Penang documentary evidence and in-situ physi- ship between the municipal government to its former state of grandeur. It was cal evidence in the building fabric itself, and the community, began with the restored to its 1812-1820 form in strict it is possible to come to an understand- mapping of the town’s resources for accordance with the documentary and ing of the evolved significance of the economic development. This process technical evidence uncovered during the place and to identify character-defining revealed the ripe potential embedded in long process of mapping the building’s elements of the site that must be con- the charming townscape. By developing history. The restoration work has set served in the ensuing work. a heritage-tourism program to capitalize new standards of technical excellence in Beyond a purely technical approach on these resources, the town succeeded the conservation of British colonial to this research, often dominated by the in: buildings worldwide. Most importantly, voice of the conservation expert, the conserving significant heritage buildings and the project has renewed the building’s award winners demonstrate the value of revitalizing the public streetscapes of a historic iconic role in the community and has bringing multiple voices into the pro- mining town [which] establishes an exemplary become a setting for local cultural conceptual framework that can be adapted by cess, which allows for actualization of other communities in Australia and throughout events. the principles espoused in the 2001 the Asia-Pacific region. The initiative of the local Principle 2: Tangible cultural expres- Universal Declaration on Cultural government in setting up associated programs to sions derive their origin, value, and Diversity.3 conserve and manage the city’s built heritage is not only noteworthy, but also demonstrates how Developing an understanding of the continuing significance from intan- municipalities can play an effective role in gible cultural practices. The tangible true spirit of place, and consequently stimulating the conservation process. reflecting that understanding in the and intangible are inextricably inter- The Hanok Regeneration in Buk- twined in the Asia-Pacific region, and conservation process and product, is chon, Seoul, Republic of Korea, 2009 central to the mission of reanimating the any conservation project that privileges Award of Distinction, has brought about tangible over intangible values of a heritage through conservation. Only a a striking change in people’s attitudes to truly participatory process, which is building risks stripping away the signifi- the city’s traditional residential quarters, cance of the place, leaving only an predicated on a broad-based cultural- originally slated for demolition and mapping exercise, can ensure this end. empty shell. redevelopment. With successful collabo- The manifestations of intangible This mapping can reveal “which her- ration among the municipality, commu- itage is important,” “to whom,” and cultural heritage include oral traditions, nity members, academics, and heritage- performing arts, social practices, knowl- “why.” The mapping reveals the her- conservation advocates, this large-scale itage values that are inherent and often edge about nature, and traditional project has raised awareness about the craftsmanship. This living heritage pro- unspoken in a community, notably heritage value of the hanok, preserved social values and religious or spiritual vides not only the wellspring of cultural an important traditional Korean archi- diversity but also guarantees continuing values. The conservation work can then tectural legacy, and inspired other cities be undertaken in an appropriate man- expressions of creativity. Indeed, the around the country. 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding ner, with full cognizance of the issues at The more dilapidated and out-of-use hand, adding a “how” dimension. of the Intangible Heritage makes provi- a structure is, the more important it is to sions for the protection of tangible Case Studies. Leh Old Town, Ladakh, recover its meaning through a multi- artifacts and cultural spaces that are India, a 2006 Honourable Mention, stakeholder, participatory approach. associated with intangible cultural her- was recognized for “catalyz[ing] a This principle is well demonstrated in itage, thus allowing for effective cooper- conservation and urban rehabilitation the restoration of Suffolk House, ation between the convention and other movement in the ancient capital of Penang, Malaysia, 2008 Award of Dis- international legal instruments, such as Ladakh by successfully undertaking the tinction. Originally the home of Sir the 1972 World Heritage Convention.4 pilot restoration of a residential neigh- Francis Light, Penang’s founder, and bourhood which includes a range of reputed to be one of the finest Euro- Case Studies. The project to rehabilitate building typologies. By conducting a pean-style buildings in the Far East, the Virtuous Bridge, Medan, Indonesia, detailed social survey alongside a con- building was in ruins when a private 2003 Award of Merit, undertaken by a servation inventory, the needs of the conservation consortium took on the local non-governmental organization, population were addressed in an inte- project with financing from the Hong demonstrates well how important the grated way.” A community-based in- Kong and Shanghai Bank. There was intangible aspect of a heritage-conserva- ventory of 178 structures led to a strate- long discussion about whether restora- tion project can be. The bridge was gic selection of representative vernacu- tion was possible or whether the build- constructed in the nineteenth century by lar structures ranging from a Buddhist ing was too deteriorated for such an local residents to connect and improve shrine to residential buildings to an attempt. Through a multi-dimensional communication between two local alleyway. These upgrades have not only research project that involved archaeol- groups — Chinese and Muslims. In the “FIRST PRINCIPLES” IN CONSERVATION 61 past half century, relations between the two communities deteriorated, and the bridge fell into disuse and was badly in need of repair. As a conscious attempt to reinvigorate the relations between the two communities, restoration work on the bridge was begun. The technical issues were simple and easily handled. What was important for the success of the project was that the symbolic mean- ing and community significance of the bridge embodied in its name, Virtuous Bridge, were restored along with the physical fabric. As observed by the award judges, “the people of Medan have also uncovered an important chapter in their shared history and Fig. 3. Embodying Principle 3: Ahhichatragarh Fort Renovation and Adaptive Reuse Project, Rajastan, awakened a new consciousness about India. their local heritage. The newly restored bridge has become a unique symbol of spirituality. The project inspired four The Nara Document on Authenticity, the city’s multicultural legacy, and is a other congregations in the territory. One adopted in 1994 and since incorporated model for future community-driven such project was St. Joseph’s Chapel, into the Operational Guidelines of the efforts in conserving local heritage also in Hong Kong, 2005 Award of World Heritage Convention, has articu- throughout the region.” Merit. Located on a undeveloped island lated a middle ground that reflects a way A different aspect of intangible her- in mostly urban Hong Kong, the restor- of balancing diverse definitions of au- itage — traditional social practices — ation has not only renewed the chapel thenticity and different underlying val- was strengthened through the conserva- itself but has had a spin-off effect on the ues within an Asian sensibility in the tion of Wat Sratong, Khonkaen, Thai- entire island community, which now has conservation process and product.5 The land, 2002 Award of Merit. This project a heightened awareness of its living cul- Nara Document states that “it is thus revived not just the skills needed for tural heritage. The project has turned not possible to base judgements of value crafts by the local villagers but also the the chapel into the focal point of reli- and authenticity on fixed criteria. On devotional aspect of temple restoration. gious activities and island social life. the contrary, the respect due to all cul- Long an important duty of Buddhist Meanwhile, the conservation of St. tures requires that cultural heritage must laypersons in the Theravada tradition, Joseph’s Seminary Church, Macao SAR, be considered and judged within the their involvement in restoring their China, 2001 Honourable Mention, cultural contexts to which it belongs.” temples has been in modern times ham- saved a city landmark, which has now The Nara Document further states that pered by lack of know-how and an been reopened to the public and serves Depending on the nature of the cultural heritage, overly judicious interpretation of the again as a site for public worship with its cultural context, and its evolution through heritage regulations (Fig. 2). The resto- an annual Te Deum ceremony. time, authenticity judgements may be linked to ration of religious buildings, notably the worth of a great variety of sources of infor- churches, synagogues, and ancestral Principle 3: Authenticity, the defining mation. Aspects of these sources may include form and design, materials and substance, use halls, demonstrates how the conserva- characteristic of heritage, is a cultur- and function, traditions and techniques, location tion of physical fabric is inextricably ally relative characteristic to be found and setting, spirit and feeling and other internal tied to the reanimation of the living in continuity, but not necessarily and external factors. The use of these sources continuity of material. The awards permits elaboration of the specific artistic, heritage associated with the place. The historic, social and scientific dimensions of the conservation of the Ohel Leah Syna- have shown that the conservationist’s cultural heritage being examined. mantra of “do as much as necessary gogue, Hong Kong SAR, China, 2000 The Nara Document does not pro- and as little as possible” is subject to Excellent Project, was an early winner vide a license for cultural relativity but interpretation within the framework of that breathed new life into the heart of rather reaffirms the validity of a rational widely varying cultural norms through- the Jewish community. The restoration system for evaluating and consequently out the Asia-Pacific region. Anecdotal of the Catholic Cathedral of the Immac- safeguarding various heritage values, evidence illustrates fundamental clashes ulate Conception in Hong Kong, 2003 one that is consistent within its own between those who seek the most Honourable Mention, has returned one socio-cultural system. In so doing, so- catholic interpretation of seminal docu- of the city’s finest churches to its former cial, cultural, and spiritual values may ments, such as the Venice Charter, that glory. Structural stabilization, refurbish- gain a foothold alongside artistic and hold material authenticity sacrosanct, ment of the interior, and modernization historic values in the conservation with local stakeholders calling for of the acoustic and lighting systems have process. allowed services to be conducted in an renewal of the fabric to ensure the enhanced ambience, conducive to deep spiritual intactness of the place. 62 APT BULLETIN: JOURNAL OF PRESERVATION TECHNOLOGY / 41:2-3, 2010

China in order to undertake the work. Their skills in decorative arts germane to Southern Chinese–influenced architec- ture, such as chien nien porcelain mo- saics, guarantees not just the material authenticity but also connotes the high- est level of veneration. Principle 4: The conservation process succeeds when histories are revealed, traditions revived, and meanings recovered in a palimpsest of knowl- edge. In extreme but increasingly fre- quent circumstances, the thread of continuity has been frayed to the point that it is barely distinguishable. Left to the course of economic renewal and the tides of social change, heritage and the values it embodies are often vulnerable to being eradicated or subsumed into a newer narrative, which may not be self- reflexive. Judicious intervention in these cases can result in revealing unique Fig. 4. Embodying Principle 4: Tung Wah Coffin House Conservation Project, Hong Kong, SAR, China. histories, reviving local traditions, and recovering the meaning of the place. Case Studies. Of all the winning entries, cattle fair, an important regional gather- The awards have recognized projects the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, George- ing that is rooted in traditional liveli- that have excelled not only in technical town, Malaysia, 2000 Most Excellent hood and ways of life (Fig. 3). The virtue but also in the dramatic impact Award, most clearly demonstrates project was commended as follows: that they have effected, especially tradi- Principle 3 as judged through the vari- the historic evolution of the site has been cap- tions that are dying or have faded away. ous criteria. As the judges noted: tured by respecting the various periods of the These projects often do so in a way that complex in the conservation work. The on-going This structure of impressive style is an extraordi- does not impose one solitary reading of work has created a live research laboratory, nary tribute to the construction techniques and providing valuable field education for conserva- the place by capturing a single snapshot craftsmanship of the past and the mansion is tion professionals and students. The physical of time but rather reveals a renewed now a cultural statement and icon of Penang. preservation of the complex returns the largest The project has successfully restored a heritage understanding of the place in the con- open grounds in the region to the local public, as building to its former glory and returned a text of other embodied historical layers a venue for festivals, cultural performances, and cultural landmark to the Penang community. religious events, thereby allowing for the conti- of meaning. In some projects, this re- Since its restoration the central ensemble of nuity of the fort’s rich history. membrance of meanings past is accom- rooms and courtyards has served as a public The restoration of Chinese clan halls plished in a quite literal yet effective space for exhibitions, tours, concerts, weddings manner — by physically juxtaposing the and other public activities, and the annexes have has vividly illustrated the importance of been converted into 16 uniquely themed apart- addressing religious and spiritual values layers of the building history against ments, decorated in nineteenth century style… in the conservation process. The temple each other. In other projects, this recov- ery is a social process, which reaches Most importantly, the project symbolizes a committees and community members turning point in conservation, serving as the often stress the need to freshen up the back into historical traditions and re- pioneer case for heritage sites in Penang. The appearance of the hall as an act of re- vives the living core of the community. restoration of Cheong Fatt Tze mansion has had spect to the gods and to their ancestors. an enormous impact and influence on the pres- Case Studies. The restoration of Guang ervation movement in Penang and serves as a This process results in material consoli- Yu Ancestral Hall, Guangdong, China, model for conservation projects throughout the dation and repainting, particularly of 2003 Award of Excellence, offers a text- region.6 frescoes and depictions of deities. Care book example of interpreting the histor- In the restoration of Ahhichatragarh is taken, however, to ensure that existing ical value of place as a physical palimp- Fort, Nagaur, Rajasthan, India, 2002 materials in sound condition are re- sest of different temporal periods. The Award of Excellence, demonstrates the tained; meanwhile, new additions or conservation team painstakingly re- importance of sustaining continuity of work are guided by the use of compati- tained physical evidence dating back to social value in the on-going occupation ble materials and authentic crafts skills eras in the building’s 600-year history. of the space. Although the fort is no and building techniques. Indeed, the These elements included a wooden longer the seat of the ruling family, it premium placed on assuring the conti- beam that had been partially replaced still maintains its ties to the larger com- nuity of the craftsmanship is so high during earlier restoration and a frag- munity. Located at the heart of Nagaur that many winning projects have ment of a wall slogan painted during town, it continues to host the annual brought over master craftsmen from the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s. “FIRST PRINCIPLES” IN CONSERVATION 63

New materials used to replace the rafters were marked with a stamp, indicating the material and the date, as per Article 9 of the Venice Charter. The project was commended for “carefully preserving the layers of historical change seen in the building, [thereby] the Lu clan ancestral hall has not only become a living record of the history of Qiangang village, but has also captured the sweep of Chinese history from the Song dynasty to the current People’s Republic.” In the restoration of the Dorje Chenmo Temple, Ladakh, India, with its superb wall paintings, 2004 Award of Merit, the conservation has re-sanctified the once-abandoned prayer hall and revived the local tradition of conducting worship ceremonies in the space. “A key catalytic role in the project was played by the village Oracle, who framed the project within a traditional devotional Fig. 5. Embodying Principle 5: Krishan Temple Preservation Project, Punjab, India. context. Working with the project man- agement team, the Oracle encouraged 2005 Jury Commendation for Innova- revisiting the fundamental questions of extensive involvement by the residents tion, the design of new interior exhibi- which heritage is important, to whom, of Shey in the conservation work, result- tion structures improves the understand- why, and how it should be conserved. ing in the reintegration of the temple ing of the historic hall, revealing the The cultural diversity of the Asia-Pacific into community life.” The physical spirit of place. In adopting a modern region, dating back to its earliest history, restoration provided a platform for the vocabulary of architecture consisting of belies easy answers to these questions. renewal of village traditions and reinvig- transparent glass walls, ceilings, and Add to the debate at the local level the orated the social values of the place. floors, as well as glass cabinets for the complication of state-mandated histories The social significance of a conserva- display of objects and a dramatic inte- and definitions of heritage, and the tion project is often as important as its rior lighting scheme, the appreciation of process becomes very complicated technical excellence. In this regard, the the traditional Chinese imperial archi- indeed. restoration of the Tung Wah Coffin tecture is greatly heightened. Seeing value in the process of negoti- Home, Hong Kong SAR, China, 2005 ation, however, means recognizing the Principle 5: Appropriate use of her- Award of Merit, provides a model. The value in cultural diversity and according itage is negotiated, resulting in a life- Coffin Home has long served as a chari- respect to the full range of stakeholders. enhancing space. Award-winning table organization reaching out to a Projects undertaken through this negoti- projects have often been conducted by spectrum of residents throughout Hong ation have emerged all the stronger, conservationists who also play an advo- Kong SAR, provided through the pa- ensuring greater social and political cacy or activist role. With heritage con- tronage of the Tung Wah group, a lead- sustainability. ing health-care provider. Over time, the servation unfortunately being a rela- increasing dilapidation of the complex tively low priority on most political Case Studies. Stadium Merdeka, Kuala has impacted the institution’s capacity to agendas in the Asia-Pacific region, the Lumpur, Malaysia, 2008 Award of serve its growing audience. The restora- conservationist-activists have had to Excellence, is a salutary example of the tion, which stabilized the buildings on shoulder the task not only of ensuring process of conservation as one of nego- site and the complex as a whole, has professional excellence but also of tiation. The judges’ citation speaks consolidated the site physically and, at raising awareness of the multiple bene- directly to this issue: the same time, allowed it greater func- fits of conserving heritage. The essential The restoration of Stadium Merdeka, the iconic messages conveyed by the conservation- setting of the announcement of Malayan inde- tionality and social significance (Fig. 4). pendence, has saved a national heritage building In another approach to revealing the ist-activists include heritage as a funda- and recovered a nation’s collective memory. complex histories of a building, a new mental cultural right, heritage as a Originally slated for redevelopment into a com- architectural intervention served to building block for sustainable develop- mercial complex, the Stadium has been restored ment, and heritage as a shared resource to its original 1957 form in recognition of the enhance the interpretation and under- inextricable connection between the building standing of what already existed on site. for local stakeholders. and the historic moment of independence. Later At the Meridian Gate Exhibition Hall of The success of such advocacy efforts additions, notably the upper tiers, were carefully the Palace Museum, Beijing, China, is usually the result of negotiation — removed and the original structure and aesthet- 64 APT BULLETIN: JOURNAL OF PRESERVATION TECHNOLOGY / 41:2-3, 2010

tural mapping process, must inform the conservation decision-making and im- plementation process if the result is to be viable. This values-based approach to conservation practice yields a richly nuanced end result, where tangible and intangible heritage are authentically conserved and historic layers of mean- ing are revealed. Through the applica- tion of these “First Principles,” the long-term safeguarding of the diverse cultural heritage of Asia — and, indeed, Fig. 6. Setting new conservation standards: Baltit Fort Conservation and Adaptive Reuse Project, of all the peoples of the world — can be Hunza Valley, Pakistan. ensured to form an essential part of the core resources for sustainable develop- ics of the building were reinstated, demonstrat- industrial buildings were indeed worthy ment with a recognizable, human face. ing a thorough understanding and respect for the of conservation, leading to a widespread To bring these First Principles into significance of the Stadium at a specific moment in history and a recognition of the heritage value recognition and official protection general practice throughout the region of modern architecture. The privately-funded policies. and, indeed, further afield, UNESCO rescue effort spearheaded by Permodalan Na- The boundaries of heritage-site con- has compiled, through an exhaustive sional Berhad, with professional assistance from servation in Asia were pushed by the series of consultations with regional Badan Warisan Malaysia, serves as a stirring inspiration for civil society around the region in project to safeguard the M24 Midget conservation experts, the Hoi An Proto- safeguarding heritage sites as part of a shared Submarine Wreck, Sydney Harbor, cols for Best Conservation Practice in social and political responsibility.7 Australia, 2009 Award of Distinction. Asia, which are professional guidelines The role of conservation as a positive This project presents an exemplary for assuring and preserving the authen- social process is best seen at the Krishan model for in-situ conservation of under- ticity of heritage sites in the context of Temple, Punjab, India, 2001 Award of water cultural heritage in the Asia- the cultures of Asia. The protocols were Distinction, located in the multi-cultural Pacific region, coupled with culturally endorsed by ICOMOS Asia-Pacific village of Kishankot. The villagers were sensitive measures for the protection and chapters at the ICOMOS General As- active throughout the project, being interpretation of the site, which contains sembly in Xi’an, China, in 2005.8 trained with necessary skills to take part human remains. The physical remains of The protocols give practical opera- in the conservation work and the ongo- the largely intact submarine have been tional guidelines for conservation practi- ing maintenance. Today, the temple protected by a sophisticated, non-inva- tioners working in Asia, thereby estab- houses worship services and literacy sive management system appropriate to lishing high standards of best conserva- classes serving all religious groups in the the underwater environment. tion practice for the region, with specific village and continues to be maintained regard to the safeguarding the authentic- by residents. The conservation project Codifying the First Principles in the ity of heritage sites within their cultural served as a platform for intercultural Hoi An Protocols for Best context. dialogue, resulting in peaceful co-exis- Conservation Practice In Asia To conclude, I would like to quote tence and a multivalent understanding Laurence Loh, a member of the UNES- of local heritage (Fig. 5). This portfolio of projects brings to light CO Heritage Awards Selection Panel The very definition of heritage was a body of standard-setting practices in and himself a winner of three awards negotiated in the rescue of a dilapidated which the conservation of the physical and an advisor to two other award- 1930s grain warehouse along the banks form of tangible heritage is inextricably winning projects, speaking on what he of the Suzhou River in Shanghai, China. linked to the continuation of the intan- saw as the importance of the awards The restoration of the Suzhou River gible cultural practices that originally when his project for the restoration Warehouse, Shanghai, China, 2004 produced and continue to give meaning of the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion in Honourable Mention, was undertaken to the heritage (Fig. 6). As a whole, the Malaysia was awarded Most Excellent at a time when the industrial heritage of award-winning projects add to our Project in the first year of the awards the city, once China’s manufacturing understanding of the role of heritage competition: powerhouse, had fallen into ruin and conservation as a social-development The principal importance of the restoration lies had not yet been recognized either in the process. They demonstrate that good in the impetus it provides in the drive to instill public eye or by state authorities as conservation practice, wherever it takes conservation consciousness in Georgetown. It place and whatever the cultural, social, also sets benchmark standards of architectural cultural heritage and a significant ex- restoration integrity in a milieu not notable for pression of the city’s past. By taking the and economic contexts, needs to be its quality of restoration work. Traditional tech- initiative to save one of the warehouses grounded in an understanding of the niques revived in the restoration works are now and convert it with minimal changes locality of place and its many overlap- acknowledged as widely applicable throughout ping values. These values of place, the historic city. The restoration…has kept faith into his loft workspace, the project with its architecture, it has opened the door for architect demonstrated how Shanghai’s identified through a participatory cul- heritage incentives. Conservation was recognized “FIRST PRINCIPLES” IN CONSERVATION 65 for the first time as an Act of Development. It Notes 6. See www.unescobkk.org/culture/our- has bought time for Georgetown and put Penang projects/empowerment-of-the-culture- on the world conservation map, imparting an 1. See http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php- profession/asia-pacific-heritage-awards-for- extraordinary and memorable experience to all URL_ID=13055&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC& culture-heritage-conservation/previous-heritage- who enter its portals and share its past glories URL_SECTION=201.html. awards-2000-2008/2000/award-winners/ and current revelations.9 2. For an elaboration of these criteria, please cheong-fatt-tze-mansion-malaysia/. As demonstrated by this project and the refer to the Rules and Regulations of the 7. See www.unescobkk.org/culture/our- other award winners and the applica- UNESCO Asia-Pacific Conservation Awards projects/empowerment-of-the-culture- tion of the First Principles, we can en- for Culture Heritage Conservation, which can profession/asia-pacific-heritage-awards-for- be found at www.unescobkk.org/culture/ sure the safeguarding of the heritage of culture-heritage-conservation/previous-heritage- our-projects/empowerment-of-the-culture- awards-2000-2008/2008/award-winners/. distinct cultural communities, which profession/asia-pacific-heritage-awards-for- form the core resources for long-term culture-heritage-conservation. 8. Copies of the Hoi Protocols for Best Conser- vation Practice in Asia can be downloaded sustainable development. 3. See http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL from UNESCO’s Web site, www.unescobk.org/ _ID=13179&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL culture/. RICHARD A. ENGELHARDT is UNESCO _SECTION=201.html. Charge de Mission and Senior Advisor to the 9. See www.unescobkk.org/culture/our- UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Cul- 4. See http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL projects/empowerment-of-the-culture- ture. In 1994 H. M. King Norodom Sihanouk _ID=17716&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL profession/asia-pacific-heritage-awards-for- of Cambodia knighted him Commandeur de _SECTION=201.html. culture-heritage-conservation/previous-heritage- l’Ordre Royal du Cambodge. Mr. Engelhardt 5. See http://whc.unesco.org/archive/opguide awards-2000-2008/2000/award-winners/ has also been decorated by the governments of 08-en.pdf. cheong-fatt-tze-mansion-malaysia/. China, the Philippines, and Viet Nam and by the Global Heritage Fund for his service to safeguard heritage. He can be reached at [email protected].