Southeast Asian Masterpieces

Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity

The Proclamation of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity was made by the Director-General of UNESCO starting in 2001 to raise awareness on intangible cultural heritage and encourage local communities to protect them and the local people who sustain these forms of cultural expressions.

Several manifestations of intangible heritage around the world were awarded the title of Masterpieces to recognize the value of the non-material component of culture, as well as entail the commitment of states to promote and safeguard the Masterpieces.Further proclamations occurred biennially until 2005.

To date, a total of 90 Masterpieces from 70 countries have been proclaimed. It's a long list, but I would like to focus on Southeast Asian masterpieces.

~Cambodia~
The Royal Ballet of Cambodia

Sbek Thom, Khmer Shadow Theatre

~Indonesia~
The Wayang Puppet Theatre

The Indonesian Kris

The Indonesian Batik

~Malaysia~
Mak Yong Theatre

~Philippines~
The Darangen Epic of the Maranao People of Lake Lanao

~Vietnam~
Nha Nhac, Vietnamese Court Music

Space of Gong Culture

The Quan ho folk songs