CONTENTS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Message from Chair (SEAMEO SPAFA Governing Board) Message from Director SEAMEO SPAFA Executive Summary Programme and Activities (Implemented) Governing Board Governing Board Members Organization Profile Financial Report Summary Partners and Collaborations annual report //MAX.indd 1 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
2 MESSAGE FROM CHAIR SEAMEO SPAFA Governing Board Thank you very much for your support We continue to join forces with partners and collaborators in our projects that provide us with greater scale, resources, and capabilities in pursuing our mission of promoting excellent practice and research in archaeology and fine arts in Southeast Asia. As we look ahead, I believe there is better focus on extending our position as a trusted centre in communication, coordination, and facilitation for both interested followers, students, and professional practitioners. In closing, the organization appears to be transitioning to an exciting time. We are adept at pivoting nimbly, failing fast, and moving on, being more mindful of our actions and their impact. SEAMEO SPAFA is well-positioned to offer more multifarious possibilities that benefit the conservation, fine arts, and archaeology community in the region. I am pleased to share this report that marks the end of a fiscal year of SEAMEO SPAFA’s efforts in fulfilling its potential of serving its beneficiaries and stakeholders with greater agility and commitment. In its response to complex challenges exaacerbated by epidemics and economic difficulties, the Regional Centre has been compelled to become even more resilient, fervently embracing change, experimentation, and innovation in the process. We have been able to provide opportunities for practitioners in the arts, archaeology, and the conservation fields to reconnect, share, and learn. Through the fiscal year, a major conference, three seminars, and two trainings were organized. From carrying out these activities, we perceived a continued increase in the interest in our programmes as archaeologists, artists, and conservation professionals look to advance through a dire period their pursuits in their respective spheres. annual report //MAX.indd 2-3
3 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report During the 2021-2022 fiscal year, SEAMEO SPAFA also organized a training programme on rock art, and a seminar on heritage impact assessment. Among other activities, the organization initiated preparation on two projects: a seminar on performing arts that explore the connection between humankind and nature, and a training on adapting emergency responses during disasters/conflicts to reduce potential impact on/damage to cultural heritage. Looking ahead, SEAMEO SPAFA is committed to understanding and meeting the needs of stakeholders to drive action and make a positive impact. The Regional Centre continuously learns, makes transparent decisions, and is open to being challenged. It is also diversifying its workforce to include different perspectives, which will help in adapting to new scenarios. and enable the team to stay motivated. I am pleased to have taken the helm at SEAMEO SPAFA in October 2022, after the end of Fiscal Year 2021-2022. As such I would like to accredit my predecessor Mrs Somlak Charoenpot for having steered SEAMEO SPAFA through a year in which the organisation achieved plenty. In 2021, SEAMEO SPAFA held its key international conference – SPAFACON2021 – to coincide with the organization’s celebration of having contributed toward archaeology and arts in Southeast Asia for over five decades. The week-long conference invited scholars and practitioners to share knowledge and research during a period when it was difficult to do so due to the pandemic. It brought together professionals and enthusiasts, with 35 papers presented, and facilitated the participation of a large number of Southeast Asians, as well as significantly addressed the UN Sustainable Development Goal of strengthening efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural heritage. MESSAGE FROM DIRECTOR SEAMEO SPAFA Centre Director 1 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
4 DURING ITS FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022, SEAMEO SPAFA organized a series of programmes, projects, and activities that were aimed at fulfilling its commitments and mission to promote practice and research in archaeology and fine arts, facilitate practitioners and professionals, and advance new knowledge and technologies. The Regional Centre held an international conference (SPAFACON2021); a training programme (Rock Art of Southeast Asia and the World); a series of talks, seminars, and lectures (SPAFA SESH Season 2 and Promoting Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) in Southeast Asia); events celebrating five decades of SPAFA’s contributions to archaeology and arts in the region; and preparations in implementing two programmes: Rain Motions: Connecting (with) the Skies of Southeast Asia (seminar on dance and performances), and Emergency Response for Cultural Heritage in Southeast Asia (disaster risk management training). The SPAFACON2021 conference brought researchers and practitioners together to share knowledge and research during the Covid-19 pandemic when it was extremely difficult to do so in person; over 30 papers were presented, relating to archaeology, performing arts, visual arts, museums, cultural heritage management, etc. Another event that involved a great number of students, archaeologists, site managers, and onote ast the on n a but e in nse of ce, ers members of the general public was the training course on rock art of Southeast Asia and the world; about a hundred and seventy participants took part in sharing knowledge that provided a better understanding and appreciation of rock art and the management of rock art sites. In a time of restricted socialising and mobility, seminars, talks, and lectures were crucial in continuing to inform practitioners on the developments in archaeology, cultural heritage conservation, and the arts; SEAMEO SPAFA conducted several of such activities, e.g. the SPAFA SESH series that facilitated sharing of experiences, discourses, and recent research. The organization also initiated a pilot activity for introducing heritage impact assessment (HIA) as a valuable tool for mitigation measures to prevent/reduce damage to cultural heritage in times of crisis. Titled ‘Promoting Heritage Impact Assessment in Southeast Asia – Three Decades of Ayutthaya World Heritage: Values, Challenges and Impact’, the programme focused on Ayutthaya and the value as well as significance of HIA practices; professionals, scholars and experts shared knowledge on balancing conservation and development, including the application of HIA in heritage conservation practices in the region. Executive Summary Annual Report FY 2021–2022 annual report //MAX.indd 4-5
5 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report In the fiscal year, SEAMEO SPAFA also initiated the implementation of the project, “Rain Motions: Connecting (with) the Skies of Southeast Asia”. It is a joint effort of ASEAN and SEAMEO SPAFA to promote knowledge dissemination, collaboration, creativity and innovation in the performing arts in Southeast Asia using local traditions as sources of inspiration. Traditional and/or ethnic practices relating to the rain will be drawn on to provide lessons for adaptation to climate change, and increase appreciation for cultural and natural heritage preservation and contemporary dance. The project will culminate in a final collaboration performance in the following fiscal year. Another project that has been initiated but will be completed in the next fiscal year is the training on ‘Emergency Response for Cultural Heritage in Southeast Asia’. In collaboration with ICOMOS and ICCROM, the project addresses emergency response for areas affected by armed conflict and turbulence, and equips heritage professionals in mitigation of potential damage to cultural heritage that may result from violence and conflicts. In total, SEAMEO SPAFA initiated/implemented seven activities in the fiscal year, including a conference, three seminars, and two training programmes, that benefitted scholars, professionals, and practitioners as well as the general public. 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
Governing Board Members Ms. Dayangku Normasdinahwati binti Pengiran Tejudin Chairperson of School-Based Committee for Arts Perdana Wazir Secondary School Brunei Darussalam Dr Heng Sophady Rector, Royal University of Fine Arts Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts Cambodia Dr. Ir. Anugerah Widiyanto Director of Human Development Policy, Population, and CultureNational Research and Innovation Agency Indonesia Dr Thonglith Luangkhoth Director of Archaeology Division Department of Heritage Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism Lao PDR Datuk Kamarul Baharin bin A. Kasim Director General Department of Museums Malaysia Malaysia Dr Pyiet Phyo Kyaw, Ph. D Professor, Department of Archaeology University of Mandalay Myanmar เลขหน้า annual report //MAX.indd 6-7
Prof Dr Hoang Anh Tuan Rector, Professor of History University of Social Sciences and Humanities Vietnam National University Vietnam Mr Jeremy R. Barns Director General National Museum of the Philippines Philippines Mr Yeo Kirk Siang Director, Heritage Research and Assessment National Heritage Board Ministry of Culture and Youth Singapore Mr. Kittiphan Phansuwan Director-General Fine Arts Department, Ministry of Culture Thailand Nomination in progress Timor-Leste Ex-Officio Member Dr Ethel Agnes Pascua-ValenzuelaDirector Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Secretariat (SEAMEO Secretariat) Thailand Ex-Officio Member Mrs Somlak Charoenpot Centre Director, SEAMEO SPAFA Thailand ▪ ▪ skills ▪ tise, a ▪ 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
The Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) consists of 23 Centres and Networks, across Southeast Asia, that are involved in a range of fields in education, such as preventive health, culture and tradition, information and communication technology, languages, poverty alleviation, agriculture, natural resources, etc. SEAMEO SPAFA, the Regional Centre for Archaeology and Fine Arts, is one of the SEAMEO regional centres. It is based in Bangkok, and both promotes archaeology, fine arts, as well as skills, knowledge and the preservation of cultural heritage in Southeast Asia. Establishment of ARCAFA Applied Reseach centre in Archaeology & Fine Arts By SEAMEO A collaboration between SEAMEO SPAFA and ICCROM, the CollAsia 2010 Workshop on Conservation, Communication and Community was held on August 5-29, 2010 in Bangkok and Phrae province, Thailand. 1971 2010 HISTORY Organization Profile Trainees prepare for dives during training on conserving underwater archaeological objects, held in Thailand between December 11, 1978 and March 9, 1979. Inauguration of the SPAFA Building by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn A collaboration between SEAMEO SPAFA and ICCROM, the CollAsia 2010 Workshop Conservation Approval of SPAFA as a permanent project 1978 1993 1985 1981 annual report //MAX.indd 8-9
Organizatio's core Activities SEAMEO SPAFA organizes training, seminars, workshops, etc. for professionals and practitioners in archaeology, fine arts, and conservation. These activities highlight the cultural diversity and uniqueness of the Southeast Asian region, and promote mutual understanding and collaboration. Conferences/Seminars/Forums facilitate experts, practitioners, and the general public in sharing skills and knowledge, exploring new ideas and technologies Training Programmes/ expand knowledge and improve skills in Southeast Asia Publication and Information dissemination increase knowledge and improve skills by sharing expertise, and contributing to discussions and good practices Library/Documentation services provide reference materials on archaeology and arts help trainees gain experience, knowledge, and skills in practical work environments 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
Member Countries Associate Member Countries Indonesia Lao PDR Philippines Singapore Vietnam Brunei Darussalam Cambodia Malaysia Myanmar Thailand Timor-Leste The Netherlands Canada Germany New Zealand Australia France The United Kingdom Spain Misson ● PROMOTE excellent practice and research in archaeology and fine arts in Southeast Asia ● DEVELOP SEAMEO SPAFA as a leading centre in communication, coordination,documentation and legal/ethics guidance for archaeologists, artists and experts ● ESTABLISH SEAMEO SPAFA as a training centre of excellence that advances new knowledge and technologies annual report //MAX.indd 10-11
PROFESSIONAL STAFF Mrs Somlak Charoenpot Centre Director Dr Noel Hidalgo Tan Senior Specialist in Archaeology GENERAL SERVICE STAFF 1. Dr Hatthaya Siriphatthanakun Specialist in Cultural Heritage Conservation 2. Ms Sarinun Usukee Administrative Officer 3. Ms Linh Anh Moreau Programme Officer (Resigned, 30 September 2022) 4. Ms Michelle Laurice Aguas Programme Officer (Appointed, 7 Feb 2022) 5. Mr Ean Lee Publication Manager (Appointed 11 March 2022) 6. Ms Ratchaporn Tesjeeb Computer Manager 7. Mr John Paul Nino Itao Communications Officer 8. Ms Sheleg Geva Documentation Officer (Appointed, 4 January 2022) 9. Mr Kanal Khiev Assistant Documentation Officer 10. Ms Vikantana Prachabodee Executive Secretary 11. Ms Vassana Kerdsupap Programme Secretary 12. Ms Wanpen Kongpool Library Staff 13.Ms Waraporn Wachirathanit Accountant 14. Mr Nipon Sud-Ngam Audio-Visual Technician 15. Ms Nawarat Saeng-wat Library Clerk 16. Mr Prapai Meejit Driver I 17. Mr Soros Jenjai Technical Staff STAFF MEMBER 2020-2021 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
12 CENTRE'S STAFF Appointment | Separation | Internship Purpose 1. The purpose of this working paper is to inform the Board of developments relating to the Centre’s staff (appointment, recruitment, separation of service and internship) in FY 2021-2022. Matters for Information Separation of Service/Appointment 2.1 Ms Sheleg Geva has been appointed as a Documentation Officer effective 4 January 2022 2.2 Ms Michelle Laurice Camua Aguas has been appointed as a Programme Of ficer effective 7 February 2022 2.3 Mr Ean Lee, Publication Manager, who had served the Centre for 25 years (since 23 January 1996) and retired on 10 March 2021, has been appointed as a Consultant (11 March 2021 - 10 March 2022) and as Publication Manager (11 March 2022 - 10 September 2022 extended to 30 November 2022). 2.4 Ms Linh Anh Moreau, Programme Officer, who served the Centre for 8 years (since 1 April2013), has resigned effective 30 September 2021. annual report //MAX.indd 12-13
13 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report Internships Internships during FY 2021-2022 are as follows: NO Name Nationality Degree Institution Assignment Period Jiayang Chen 2 Qin Li 3 1 Chinese Chinese Master of Science (Majoring in Conservation) at The University of Hong Kong In the process of completing a degree in Management, Hangzhou Dianzi University (expected graduation date: 1 June 2023) (i) Assist SPAFA’s Specialist in Cultural Heritage Conservation on an upcoming seminar related to Ayutthaya; and (ii) Conduct a study on wood conservation, which will culminate in a presentation and online webinar (i.e. SPAFA SESH) (i) Assist in the successful running of SEAMEO SPAFA’s upcoming international conference, SPAFACON2021, which will be conducted online from 13-17 December 2021 16 August to 12 November 2021 (online internship) *extended to: 17 December 2021 2021 to 04 January 2022 Linhao Xia (Patrick) Chinese In the process of completing a degree in Management, Hangzhou Dianzi University (expected graduation date: 1 June 2023) (i) Assist in the successful running of SEAMEO SPAFA’s upcoming international conference, SPAFACON2021, which will be conducted online from 13-17 December 2021 2021 to 04 January 2022 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
NO Name Nationality Degree Institution Assignment Period Xinyue Hu (Ava) Sijie Sun (Jessie) 5 6 7 4 Chinese Chinese In the process of completing a degree majoring in Communications, Hangzhou Dianzi University Bachelor’s Degree in Reading - Majoring in Computer Science and Te c h n o l o g y, Hangzhou Dianzi University (i) Assist with the workflow of SPAFA Publications (i) Assist in preparing SPAFA’s weekly SPAFA News Collection. 0 4 O c t o b e r 2 0 2 1 t o 0 4 January 2022 0 4 O c t o b e r 2 0 2 1 t o 0 4 January 2022 Zhang Xiyao Chinese 4th-year PhD student from Donghua University (P. R. China) studying Ancient Textile Materials and Technology (i) Assisting with SEAMEO SPAFA’s upcoming rock art course; and (ii) Assisting with the SPAFA Journal and SPAFA publications 01 March to 30 June 2022 Yueqiu Li (Selina) Chinese 3rd year of pursuing a Bachelors in Liberal Arts, Majoring in English at Huaqiao University, Quanzhou,China Assisting with the documentation of communications and public relations related data. 07 Feb to 9 May 2022 annual report //MAX.indd 14-15
15 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report NO Name Nationality Degree Institution Assignment Period 9 8 10 Chinese Chinese Chinese Jing Quan Pursuing Doctoral Degree ( e x p e c t e d completion Mar 2023) in Textile Engineering at Donghua University, Shangh a i , C h i n a *Was visiting PhD student in Mechinal Engineering at NUS (15 Jan 2021 to 17 Jan 2022) Assisting with the SPAFA Journal and SPAFA publications. 07 Feb to 9 May 2022 Jitong Chen P u r s u i n g a Master’s degree in Cultural Heritage and Museology at Capital Normal University, Beijing (expected to graduate in June 2022) Research focusing on how the Buddhist architectural heritage in Thailand preserves its historical, artistic, and religious aspects and comparisons/ applications to Chinese Buddhist architectural heritage. 1 April to 1 July 2022 Chenjia Yang (Judy) P u r s u i n g a Bachelor’s in Cultural Heritage at Capital Normal University, Beijing Assisting in the making of a research script for the exhibition of SEAMEO SPAFA’s 50th Anniversary 11 May to 3 Aug 2022 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
DURING ITS FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022, SEAMEO SPAFA organized a series of ww, projects, and activities even though – as with the previous year – in-person activities could not be conducted due to health and safety considerations. For FY 2021-2022, the Regional Centre’s annual programme consisted of activities that were conducted either online or in a hybrid mode as follows: 1) SPAFACON2021 (Conference) 2) Rock Art of Southeast Asia and the World (Training) 3) SPAFA SESH Season 2 (Seminars-Events-ShowsHowTos) 4) Promoting Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) in Southeast Asia – Three Decades of Ayutthaya World Heritage: Values, Challenges and Impact (Seminar) 5) SPAFA50 (Commemoration) 6) Rain Motions: Connecting (with) the Skies of Southeast Asia (Seminar/Performance) 7) Emergency Response for Cultural Heritage in Southeast Asia (Training). ANNUAL REPORT SUMMARY SPAFACON2021, the fourth iteration of SPAFACON, included the arts, conservation, and other fields in its coverage. It was also the first SPA - FACON held entirely online, offering an opportunity for scholars and pro - fessionals to share their knowledge and research despite the pandemic lockdowns, presenting 35 papers relating to topics ranging from archaeology, performing arts, visual arts, museums and cultural heritage management. Selected papers were compiled and published in a spe - cial edition. SPAFACON2021 ad - dressed UN SDG #11.4 (strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural herit - age) and SEAMEO’s Culture Priority Area #6 (harnessing technology for heritage/culture preservation). Programmes and Projects annual report //MAX.indd 16-17
The Centre also ran a two-month online course, Rock Art of Southeast Asia and the World, on rock art from around the world (with a particular focus on Southeast Asia), and also on the management of rock art sites. Rock Art experts from all over the world shared their knowledge and expertise to present the participants an overview and foundational knowledge of Rock Art. A hundred and sixty-nine participants joined the course, with 40% coming from Southeast Asia. The at - tendees were a mix of students, archaeologists, rock art site managers and members of the general public. This online course provided a better understanding, knowledge and appreciation of rock art. Conducted online, it enabled participants to undergo the course at their own pace, with all contents – 21 lectures – and other supplementary materials uploaded online. Activities associated with archaeology such as four site visits 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
18 Supporting the practice of heritage impact assessment (HIA), SEAMEO SPAFA initiated a pilot activity for introducing HIA as a valuable tool for mitigation measures. Through this two-day online seminar, Promoting Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) in Southeast Asia – Three Decades of Ayutthaya World Heritage: Values, Challenges and Impact, the value and significance of Ayutthaya were highlighted. This activity raised awareness of normally unseen factors – such archaeological sites unbeknown to the public – to make stakeholders aware of their presence during project implementation. It was also an opportunity for professionals, scholars, and experts to share knowledge in bridging the gap between conservation and development and how HIA can be used as part of heritage conservation efforts in the region. nars-Events-Shows-HowTos) remains to be a worthwhile and cost-efficient endeavour for the organization, as this online lecture series served as platforms for sharing experiences, discourses, recent research and developments in Southeast Asian archaeology, cultural heritage conservation, museums, and the arts. The lecture series also enabled scholars, professionals and practitioners in various fields to be better equipped with knowledge and skills that can be applied to their work, studies, professionals and practitioners in various fields to be better equipped with knowledge and skills that can be applied to their work, studies or interests. The wide range of topics addressed the UN SDGs (#4 Quality Education, #11 Sustainable Cities and Communities and #17 Partnerships for the Goals) as well as SEAMEO’s Strategic Themes and Priority Areas for Culture (#1 Creation, Tradition, and Innovation, #3 Resilience and Traditional Knowledge, #4 Peace and Inter-Cultural Understanding, #6 Harnessing Technology for Heritage/Culture Preservation). For the past fiscal year, the SESHes reached an audience of 320 attendees, with all of the recordings available in YouTube and Facebook (the most viewed in YouTube is “Our Collections Matter” with 218 views). annual report //MAX.indd 18-19
19 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report To celebrate its contribution to archaeology and fine arts for five decades, SEAMEO SPAFA held activities under the programme, SPAFA50. The activities included a special website put up as a depository of information, as well as a video history of the SPAFA building, and commemorative memorabilia. Another project, Rain Motions: Connecting (with) the Skies of Southeast Asia, is an endeavour of ASEAN and SEAMEO SPAFA in bridging the past and present, and breaking the barriers between dance genres, to promote knowledge sharing, collaboration, creativity and innovation in the performing arts in Southeast Asia using local traditions as sources of inspiration. This project commenced in the 2021-2022 fiscal year, and will culminate in a hybrid format during the current fiscal year, with online workshops and a series of country-specific dances and a final joint performance to be held in Bangkok in January 2023. The project aims to address UN SDGs, SEAMEO Culture Agenda Priorities, SEAMEO SPAFA and ASEAN goals. Importantly, the rain-related traditional and/or ethnic practices to be highlighted will provide lessons for climate adaptation, and increase appreciation for cultural and natural heritage preservation as well as contemporary dance among audiences in Southeast Asia. In the midst of preparations for the Emergency Response for Cultural Heritage in Southeast Asia training activity, unexpected disruptions emerged. SEAMEO SPAFA, ICOMOS, and ICCROM remain hopeful that this training activity will resume and proceed as planned after the situation improves. This activity is a timely endeavour as it intends to address emergency response for areas of armed conflict and turbulence, enabling heritage professionals in the region to raise their awareness in mitigating possible damage and impact to cultural heritage. Expected outcomes shall include better understanding of the value and significance of protecting cultural heritage in times of crisis. 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
20 Publications ThreepublicationswereproducedbytheCentreinFY2021/2022: Governing Board Meeting (GBM36) report for FY 2020/2021; Annual Report for FY 2019/2020; and a special online publication,SPAFACON 2021, which was released as part ofSPAFA50 (it contains papers from the SEAMEO SPAFA International Conference on Southeast Asian Archaeology and Fine Arts). The online SPAFA Journal continues to be a venue for local academic research in archaeology, fine arts, and cultural heritage. A total of 40 submissions were received in 2021 (up from 21 the previous year), with an acceptance rate of 33% (down from 76% the previous year). The higher submission and rejection rate reflect the growing popularity of the SPAFA Journal particularly since it continues to be listed in Scopus. The journal is ranked at Q4 for the fields of Archaeology; Archaeology (arts and humanities); Conservation; and Visual Arts and Performing Arts. Presently, the number of registered users is 1,222 up from 1,094 as reported in the previous year. The reach of the journal is likely to be wider as registration is not mandatory for accessing the journal content. Journal articles (counted by PDF views) were accessed 9,361 times in 2021, up from 7,235 the previous year. At the time of writing, the journal is on Volume 6 for the 2022 calendar year. To date, three research articles and one short report have been published online with 25 more submissions at various stages of review and editing. Knowledge Management Under Knowledge Management (KM), two activities were conducted in the past year; firstly, a collaboration with the SEAMEO Secretariat to share KM concepts and best practices and how they applied to the different centres. The activity was also a means to encourage other centres to adapt and embrace KM. The other KM activity was held for the Centre’s staff, namely the newly-hired Programme Officer and Documentation Officer who were briefed on the Governing Board Meeting tasks as well as the Project Implementation Cycle. Collaborations The Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth (CH4IG) is an ongoing collaboration with ICCROM and the British Council, Thailand. Preparations have been made to organize a series of activities to share the experiences of heritage professionals, institutions, NGOs, civil society organizations and researchers from the region that can benefit communities in Southeast Asia. The aim is to understand the needs, challenges, and opportunities for the contribution of built heritage conserva tion and management towards development and growth that are inclusive. The website and online platforms needed for this project have been launched, and will culminate in a roundtable discussion in 2023 that will facilitate documenting capacity-building initiatives. The efforts will strengthen knowledge in the region and provide networking opportunities for the participants and stakeholders. Another collaboration, CollAsia 2022: Collections, Conservation, and Sustainable Development, is a training organized with ICCROM. SEAMEO SPAFA, as a long-term partner in the CollAsia programme, was invited to be one of the project partners. The training will be held in Siem Reap, Cambodia in 2022. SEAMEO SPAFA’s role in the activity is to identify the potential local collaborators and resource persons, providing inputs in course contents, and disseminating the course announcement in the region through its governing board members. The training aims to accelerate, increase, and amplify activities that support sustainable development within the context of collections-based work. Internships SEAMEO SPAFA accepted 10 internships in the past fiscal year, albeit all online due to the pandemic disruptions. The interns from China were assigned to the annual report //MAX.indd 20-21
21 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report NO PROGRAMME ACTIVITY TYPE STATUS 1 SPAFACON2021 Online Conference Implemented 2 Rock Art of Southeast Asia and the World Online Training Course Implemented 3 SPAFA SESH Season 2 (Seminars-Events-Shows-HowTos) Online Programme Implemented 4 Promoting Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) in Southeast Asia – Three Decades of Ayutthaya World Heritage: Values, Challenges and Impact Online Seminar Implemented 5 SPAFA50 Commemoration Ongoing 6 Rain Motions: Connecting (with) the Skies of Southeast Asia Seminar and Performance/Public Outreach Ongoing 7 Emergency Response for Cultural Heritage in Southeast Asia Online Training Ongoing 8 Knowledge Management In-house Activity Implemented Centre’s Academic, Library and Documentation, and Administration sections. Jiayang Chen is a graduate student in Conservation from the University of Hong Kong, and assisted SPAFA’s Senior Specialist in Cultural Heritage Management. Qin Li is a graduate student in English Translation at China University of Petroleum; she did her internship in Documentation and Programme Development. Linhao Xia is a student of Management from Hangzhou Dianzi University, and assisted in conference organizing. Xinyue Hu is a student of Communications from Hangzhou Dianzi University; she assisted in the SPAFA Publications section. Sijie Sun, who is another student from Hangzhou Dianzi University, majors in Computer Science and Technology, and assisted in SPAFA’s weekly news collection. Also helping with SPAFA’s journal and publications was Jing Quan, a PhD student in Textile Engineering at Donghua University; while Yueqiu Li who is studying English at Huaqiao University, assisted with SPAFA’s Communications and PR data. Zhang Xiyao, another PhD student in Textile Materials and Technology from Donghua University, assisted in SPAFA’s Rock Art Course as well as SPAFA’s Journal and Publications. For her internship, Jitong Chen, a graduate student in Cultural Heritage and Museology at Capital Normal University, undertook researching Buddhist architectural heritage in Thailand in comparison with Chinese Buddhist architectural heritage. Lastly, Chenjia Yang assisted in a research script for the SPAFA50 programme; she is a student of Cultural Heritage at Capital Normal University. Despite the pandemic restrictions, SEAMEO SPAFA managed to conduct seven activities in the past fiscal year, including the SPAFACON flagship conference, three seminars, two training programmes, and online lecture series. These activities, guided by the Centre’s mandate, benefitted scholars, professionals, practitioners, and the general public. During the twelve months, the organization also produced three publications, received 40 online journal submissions, and engaged in two collaborations with institutional partners. Moving forward, Fiscal Year 2022-2023 will be another banner year for the SEAMEO SPAFA as it reverts to more in-person activities, and commences its 8th Five-Year Development Plan. The Centre remains committed to fostering partnerships and engagements with its stakeholders, and intensifying its pursuit of excellence as the leading centre for archaeology and fine arts in the region. 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
22 SPAFACON2022 The SEAMEO SPAFA International Conference on Southeast Asian Archaeology and Fine Arts Summary The fourth SPAFACON was conducted as part of SPAFA50. The week-long conference was conducted online due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and unlike the previous SPAFACONs which focused exclusively on archaeology, the scope of this SPAFACON was the entirety of SPAFA’s mandate and included additional sessions on performing arts, visual arts, museums and cultural heritage management. 35 papers were read over the course of five days. Background & Problem Statement 2021 marked SPAFA's 50 years of contribution to archaeology and fine arts since its inception as a regional centre for capacity building in archaeology, but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, in-person activities were curtailed. As such, an online edition of the centre's academic conference (SPAFACON) was developed and executed in December 2021. SPAFACON was previously held in 2013, 2016 and 2019, and has become one of the region's main academic conferences for archaeology, second only to the IPPA. Moving SPAFACON to 2021 was timely because the next scheduled SPAFACON in 2022 (in accordance to the three-year rotation) would have coincided with IPPA, of which SPAFA is a co-organiser. SPAFACON2021 expanded the scope of the conference to include all of SPAFA's mandates rather than just archaeology. General Information Type/Category Conference/Archaeology, Fine Arts, Heritage and Conservation Venue Conference/Archaeology, Fine Arts, Heritage and Conservation Dates Conference/Archaeology, Fine Arts, Heritage and Conservation Target Group/Beneficiaries Conference/Archaeology, Fine Arts, Heritage and Conservation annual report //MAX.indd 22-23
23 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report Objectives 1. Providing an avenue for the dissemination of research in Southeast Asian archaeology, fine arts and cultural heritage 2. Foster interactionsl and cooperation between cultural heritage professionals working in Southeast Asia 3. Encourage the participation of local (native) Southeast Asians in the research of the Southeast Asian cultural heritage Outputs 1. Five-day (one week) online conference 2. Conference publication Outcomes 1. Sharing of latest research, especially from local scholars 2. Raised awareness of the SEAMEO SPAFA as an international centre of knowledge in Southeast Asian archaeology, fine arts and cultural heritage Impacts 1. Impressing the role of SEAMEO SPAFA as a centre for knowledge sharing, particularly during the Covid-19 period when activities were curtailed. 2. Advancing SEAMEO’s culture priority area #6 in Harnessing Technology for Heritage/Culture Preservation 3. Addressing UN SDG #11.4 Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
"Rock Art of Southeast Asia and the World" General Information Type/Category Venue Training/ArchaeologyVe Online Dates Target Group/Beneficiaries Fine Arts Department Thailand, Students and Professionals; Rock Art Network General Public Summary Rock Art of Southeast Asia and the World is a two-month online course on rock art from around the world (with a particular focus on Southeast Asia), and also on the management of rock art sites. The course aims to give students a broad overview of rock art as an archaeological asset and cultural heritage resource, and to provide foundational knowledge on the research and preservation of rock art. The course is convened by SEAMEO SPAFA’s Senior Specialist in Archaeology, who is himself an expert in the rock art of the region, along with resources persons from Southeast Asia and a global network of rock art experts. 169 participants joined the course, 40% from Southeast Asia. The attendees were a mix of students, archaeologists, rock art site managers and members of the general public. Background & Problem Statement Because of the Covid-19 pandemic SEAMEO SPAFA, like many organizations, has had to adapt its programmes with constraints on international travel and in-person activities. In 2021, two of the centre’s training programmes were converted into online courses; a four-month course on Disaster Risk Management, and a six-week course on Archaeological Bone Conservation. Both courses were successful and demonstrated a general demand for online training; e.g. the Archaeological Bone course was attended by approximately 170 participants from Southeast Asia and across the world. While SEAMEO SPAFA is expected to resume in-person programmes within the next two years, online courses have several advantages. Online courses can be very cost effective in facilitating the delivery of foundational knowledge for a large number of participants, which when paired with an in-person training also means more time can be utilised for the practical and hands-on aspects. The cost-effectiveness of the training means that more resource persons can be engaged at online courses than in offline ones, e.g. during the 2021 bones course we were able to engage 11 instructors vs three during an in-person event. At the end of the 2021 bones conservation course, participants were asked annual report //MAX.indd 24-25
about what kind of topics they would like to see in future online courses. Rock art was near the top of the list for most popular suggestions, and was chosen as the focus for the 2022 online course because it would translate well into the online format. Rock art research has accelerated in Southeast Asia in the past decade, with over 1,000 known rock art sites in the region and several high-profile studies published in recent years such as the dates of rock art from Borneo and Sulawesi, which are now considered among the oldest in the world. Several rock art sites such as the Phu Phra Bat Historical Park in Thailand, the Lenggong Valley in Malaysia and the Maros-Pangkep Karst region in Indonesia have already been developed for tourism, while other sites are also in consideration for development and thus there is a need to address the longer-term conservation and management issues at these sites. SEAMEO SPAFA last conducted rock art programmes in 2014 during a series of workshops that ran between 2011-2014. Given the prevailing uncertainties about the resumption of international travel and in-person activities in 2022, and the identified demand for rock art training, the centre has put together a broad introductory course focused on world rock art with a particular focus on Southeast Asia. Objectives 1. Raise awareness of rock art sites in Southeast Asia, and in other parts of the world to provide a global perspective on this kind of archaeological material 2. Impart basic knowledge on rock art research, specifically recording rock art and conserving sites 3. Impart basic knowledge on the care and management of sites, from both a site manager and site visitor perspective Outputs 1. Online classroom (accessible indefinitely) infrastructure delivering lecture content and numerous supplementary materials 2. 21 online lectures 3. 4 virtual site visits Outcomes 1. Participants reported a better understanding and appreciation of rock art around the world. 2. In particular, participants mentioned a better understanding and knowledge of the rock art of Southeast Asia. Impacts 1. The course increased SPAFA’s visibility as a training centre for archaeology, to both a Southeast Asian and global audience. 2. This course advances SEAMEO Culture Priority Area #6 - Harnessing Technology for Heritage/Culture Preservation and UNESCO SDG #11.4 Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
SPAFA SESH SEASON 2 (Seminars-Events-Shows-HowTos) General Information Type/Category Lecture Series/Archaeology, Fine Arts, Heritage and Conservation, General Interests Venue Online Dates 07 July 2021 - 23 June 2022 Partners/Collaborators ICCROM in SESH#13 and #14 Target Group/Beneficiaries Practitioners, professionals, students and individuals with an interest in Southeast Asia in the following fields of interest: a. Archaeology b. Fine Arts c. Performing Arts d. Cultural Heritage Conservation e. Museology f. General Interests Executive Summary SPAFA SESH was initiated as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Two years on, these online lecture series were extended to cope with the situation, and since then, the topics raised in the programme have gone beyond Southeast Asia, including those on heritage conservation and museology. For FY 2021-2022, eight SPAFA SESHes were conducted, with topics ranging from disaster risk management; heritage conservation efforts; heritage impact assessment; sharing of archaeological research in Myanmar; museology; the performing arts, and a special SESH for the opening ceremony of the rock art online course. These SESHes resulted in new audiences and additional subscribers to the SPAFA newsletter and other Social Media platforms. annual report //MAX.indd 26-27
Background & Problem Statement Initially designed as a pandemic response, and with the past fiscal year still in the midst of the pandemic, SPAFA SESH was a means for the organization to maintain its relevance and presence even in the virtual setting. As the world learned to live and cope with COVID-19, its sustainability proved to be a worthwhile endeavour for SPAFA to continue and pursue as a recurring and annual project. The uncertain situation of ever-changing lockdowns and restrictions was an opportunity for SEAMEO SPAFA and other institutions involved in archaeology, heritage conservation, and the arts to re-evaluate and pivot their operations online to adjust, cope, and survive while still being able to deliver its mandates. As a result, the hybrid modality is now considered to be the “new normal” in terms of conducting lectures, training, seminars, showcases, exhibitions and the like even if travel restrictions are easing up and face to face modalities are being reintroduced. The saying “the show must and will go on” still rings true. Objectives 1. Provide a platform for resource persons and panelists to share their experiences and knowledge on research and developments in archaeology, cultural heritage conservation, museums, and fine arts to be disseminated to the wider public and targeted audiences 2. Promote excellent practice and research as well as widening the reach for stakeholders, participants and speakers 3. Increase new viewers and followers for SPAFA through Social Media platforms and the SPAFA Newsletter Outputs • 8 recordings, available in both Facebook and YouTube, with the most viewed in YouTube being “Our Collections Matter” with 218 views • 8 published summaries and post-activity reports, which (if applicable) include links to professional tools, academic articles and resources • Reached an audience of 320 attendees for FY 2021/2022 Outcomes 1. The SESHes served as platforms for sharing experiences and recent research and developments in Southeast Asian archaeology, cultural heritage conservation, museums, and fine arts: • Archaeological findings in Myanmar • Museum challenges, responses and practices in the Asia-Pacific region • Disaster Risk Management case studies and research • Safeguarding Heritage Collections in the midst of conflicts • Rock Art in Southeast Asia and the world 2. Discourse on Performing arts and how they have adapted and coped with the pandemic 3. Wider reach of audiences, not just limited to Southeast Asian practitioners and professionals Impacts 1. Practitioners in various fields are better equipped with knowledge and skills that can be applied to their work, studies or interest 2. Maintain and promote SEAMEO SPAFA’s presence as a centre for knowledge sharing, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic when activities were curtailed. 3. Cost-efficient for SPAFA to conduct SESHes due to the virtual set-up 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
Promoting Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) in Southeast Asia – Three Decades of Ayutthaya World Heritage: Values, Challenges and Impact General Information Type/Category Seminar Venue Online Dates 21-22 December 2021 Partners/Collaborators SEAMEO Secretariat 1. Fine Arts Department, Thailand 2. UNESCO, Bangkok Summary 1. Heritage Professionals i.e. archaeologists, architects and engineers 2. Infrastructure Construction Professionals 3. Urban Planners 4. General Public annual report //MAX.indd 28-29
29 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report Ayothaya Floating Market, Ayutthaya, Thailand Diego Delso, CC-BY-SA Executive Summary A two-day online seminar on the heritage impact assessment (HIA) for the Historic City of Ayutthaya, one of three World Cultural Heritage properties of Thailand, was conducted as a pilot activity on HIA. The event aimed to introduce the heritage impact assessment as a tool to discuss mitigation measures among relevant sectors. The activity was organised online while some speakers joined physically. The seminar involved raising awareness on the value and significance of the Historic City of Ayutthaya beyond the world heritage boundary, including recent discoveries, research and studies, site management issues and the impact of the construction of high-speed train system, including a station at Ayutthaya. In addition to heritage professionals and those working in the infrastructure and construction sectors, several well-known scholars and experts on Ayutthaya Studies, as well as community members and the general public attended as resource persons and/or as audience. Background In recent years, peninsular Southeast Asia has seen a rise in infrastructure projects, i.e. dams, highways and mass rapid transit systems such as the high-speed train. While an efficient transportation system can be seen as a driving force in economic development, providing a means for people who live in distant areas to access modern facilities, other public services and for agricultural products as well as other natural resources and production sectors to be well connected, large-scale infrastructure construction presents an impact to its surroundings before, during and after their construction period. Therefore, in some Southeast Asian countries including Thailand, the environmental impact assessment known as EIA is a legal requirement before construction. However, there is evidence that the EIA still lacks consideration for cultural heritage. As such, the heritage impact assessment or HIA has been implemented in many countries in the other parts of the world. In addition, the World Heritage Committee has encouraged and adopted decisions that the HIA should be recommended or requested for World Heritage properties when large-scale construction projects or activities will be conducted. According to the guidelines within the HIA process, for heritage impact assessment recently developed by International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM), dialogues among stakeholders to develop mutual understanding and awareness will be provided. Furthermore, impact mitigation measures will also be discussed and decided among the stakeholders. As a result, SEAMEO SPAFA has envisioned that HIA will be beneficial and necessary for heritage professionals in Southeast Asia. For FY 2021/2022, the Centre proposed activities that introduced and promoted the heritage impact assessment. 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
30 Problem Statement The Historic City of Ayutthaya, a World Cultural Heritage of Thailand, was affected by severe flooding in 2011, followed by a criticized postdisaster recovery and restoration. Consequently, the World Heritage Committee requested the Thai Government to submit the State of Conservation Report (SOC) biennially. In 2019, the Committee also recommended Thailand to consider extending the boundary of this world heritage property to cover its footprint. At the same time, the Thai Government approved the high-speed train system construction project to cross the entire country in order to accelerate and enhance the national logistic and transportation system and connect with the rail systems of neighbouring countries. One of the high-speed train stations will be built in Ayutthaya Province, not far from Ayutthaya City Island which is statutorily protected by Thai law and houses the Historic City of Ayutthaya, a World Heritage property. According to the archaeological evidence above ground and various studies, the area where the station will be located is Ayodhaya, which was the previous administrative centre of the Kingdom before the establishment of Ayutthaya. As such, the location carries one of the highest archaeological potentials in the country. The construction will definitely impact the underground archaeological evidence, as well as damage the archaeological footprint of Ayutthaya unless impact mitigation measures are discussed and implemented. IIn 2021 the Historic City of Ayutthaya celebrated its 20 years of being inscribed into the World Heritage List. In this context, the Fine Arts Department of Thailand (as the managerial body of this property), UNESCO Bangkok and SEAMEO SPAFA collaborated to enhance understanding on the value of Ayutthaya and the Convention Concerning the Protection of World Natural and Cultural Heritage, as well as to introduce HIA to heritage professionals through a seminar held on the occasion of 20th anniversary of the Historic City of Ayutthaya’s inscription on the World Heritage List. The seminar brought together stakeholders, scholars, and experts from various disciplines as well as communities in the area and its precinct to share their opinions and discuss how to retain the value of Ayutthaya during the construction of the high-speed train station and rail system. annual report //MAX.indd 30-31
31 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report Objectives 1. Provide a platform for organisations and stakeholders of the high-speed train system involved in construction to discuss and share their opinions 2. Present recent discoveries and studies on the Historic City of Ayutthaya 3. Introduce and promote heritage impact assessment to Southeast Asia Outputs 1. Two-day seminar on the conservation and management of Ayutthaya with the introduction of heritage impact assessment 2. An ongoing publication regarding the seminar (editing of all the presented articles in the Thai language is in progress) 3. Cumulative data and information for developing the future SEAMEO SPAFA training course on heritage impact assessment proposed in its 8th Five-Year Development Plan Outcomes 1. The project raised awareness of the importance of cultural heritage, especially unveiled archaeological sites which are normally unseen, for stakeholders involved in conservation and construction projects. 2. Provided instructions and guidance for the training course on heritage impact management in Southeast Asia that will be conducted. Impacts 1. The controversial divide between conservation and development will decline as development projects start to integrate heritage impact assessment for the sustainability of the local community and surrounding areas. 2. Heritage impact management will be implemented as part of conservation systems in the Southeast Asian countries. 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
Summary After a number of meetings to develop the Centre’s programme plan for 2020-2022, the commemoration of SEAMEO SPAFA’s 50 years of contributing to archaeology and fine arts in Southeast Asia was among projects and activities proposed in early 2020 by the working group led by SEAMEO SPAFA Senior Specialist in Archaeology. The activities will celebrate the organization’s decades-long contribution to archaeology and fine arts in Southeast Asia. These activities are linked to the organization’s mission, as the co-ordination centre of the region, to promote a culture of peace, non-violence, global citizenship, appreciation of cultural diversity, and sustainable development. The celebrations and publicity will further increase SEAMEO SPAFA’s visibility and accessibility, and strengthen its exalted standing among beneficiaries and stakeholders. Background On 11 January 1971, the opening statement of His Excellency Chhanh Sokhum, Minister of Education, the Khmer Republic (now Cambodia) at the Sixth Conference of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Council (SEAMEC) held in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), set in motion the creation of what is today the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Type/Category Commemoration Dates 2021-2022 Beneficiaries General Information SPAFA50 Centre for Archaeology and Fine Arts (SEAMEO SPAFA). The initial focus was primarily on archaeology, viewed as an important key in understanding the history and culture of Southeast Asia. Professional competence for those involved in research and the study of archaeology in SEAMEO-member countries was given priority. At the SEAMEO Council's Twentieth Conference in Manila in 1985, the council endorsed the development of the SEAMEO Project in Archaeology and Fine Arts into a Regional Centre to be hosted by the Government of Thailand. Today, SEAMEO SPAFA continues its sustained endeavour to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of Southeast Asia, and to revitalize its role in human capital development for 21st Century archaeology and fine arts by: • promoting excellent practice and research in archaeology and fine arts in Southeast Asia; • developing the organization as a leading centre in communication, coordination, documentation and legal/ethics guidance for archaeologists, artists and experts; and • establishing SEAMEO SPAFA as a training centre of excellence that advances new knowledge and technologies annual report //MAX.indd 32-33
Objectives 1. Reflect on the organization’s experience of the past decades; celebrate accomplishments; and adapt to promote SDG (11) efforts in protecting and safeguarding the world’s cultural and natural heritage 2. Increase SEAMEO SPAFA’s visibility, accessibility, and relevance as a co-ordination centre for practitioners and professionals 3. Publicise the intention to link heritage in Southeast Asia, and contribute to the growth of innovators and professional practice Outputs 1. Website and Archival Publication (for commemoration) 2. Video on the history of the SPAFA Building 3. Commemorative Souvenirs 4. Commemorative Publication 5. SPAFACON 2021 Special Publication Outcomes 1. Appreciation of the organization’s history and accomplishments 2. Better understanding of the regional centre’s mission to link heritage in Southeast Asia 3. Increased visibility, influence, and reputation of SEAMEO SPAFA 4. Long overdue celebration with supporters, stakeholders, beneficiaries Impacts Expanded awareness of SEAMEO SPAFA’s role as a co-ordination centre in the region for practitioners and professionals; as well as its commitment to SDG (11) in protecting and safeguarding cultural and natural heritage. SPAFA50 General Information 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
34 General Information Connecting (with) the Skies of Southeast Asia RAIN MOTION Type/Category Seminar and Performance/Public Outreach Event/ Performing Arts Online and Bangkok, Thailand (in-person activities) ASEAN Ministry of Culture, Thailand Thai Khadi Research Institute, Thammasat University December 2022 – June 2023 During preparations: Southeast Asian Contemporary Performers Southeast Asian Contemporary Choreographers Archaeologists, Historians, Anthropologists, Folklorists, Ethnomusicologists (as resources on traditional knowledge/ practices) During implementation: General Public Venue Partners/Collaborators Dates Target Group/Beneficiaries Summary The project “Rain Motions: Connecting (with) the Skies of Southeast Asia” is a collaborative endeavour between ASEAN and SEAMEO SPAFA in bridging the past and present, and breaking the barriers between dance genres, to promote collaboration, creativity and innovation in the performing arts in Southeast Asia. Bringing together teams of dancers from 11 countries in Southeast Asia to showcase their local identities and creations, the performances will culminate in a “finale performance” as a creative regional collaboration. The various contemporary dances will draw inspiration from traditional and/or ethnic dances or rituals related to rain, such as controlling rainfall and living with rain ecosystems. This will allow exploration of the deep connections between humankind and nature (e.g. water-related issues such as climate change and water resource management), as well as between the various participating countries, in order to highlight shared and diverse cultural expressions in Southeast Asia. Background The ASEAN culture sector through the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Culture and Arts (SOMCA) and ASEAN-COCI has been leading numerous projects in the performing arts through the years. Recurring flagship projects such as the ASEAN Festival of Arts (AFA) and the Best of ASEAN Performing Arts (BoAPA) have effectively promoted cultural exchanges among the ASEAN Member States (AMS) and brought ASEAN’s rich heritage of annual report //MAX.indd 34-35
35 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report dances and other cultural elements (e.g. songs, music, costumes) to many audiences of all ages. The project is in line with current efforts of ASEAN on promoting inter-cultural exchange as outlined by the ASEAN Strategic Plan on Culture and the Arts 2016-2025. It also contributes to the ASEAN Culture of Prevention’s (CoP) Thrust 1 on promoting intercultural understanding, as well as a cross-sectoral link to CoP Thrust 4 on promoting a culture of resilience and care for the environment. Furthermore, it is a fitting follow-up to the successful implementation of the ASEAN Year of Cultural Exchanges in 2019 and 2020 Year of ASEAN Identity. The contemporary dance component of the project is inspired by the accomplishment of the ASEAN Contemporary Dance Festival 2019 where the participants recommended that projects promoting contemporary dance in the ASEAN region be made sustainable. Meanwhile, since 2011 SEAMEO SPAFA has been organizing performing arts events related to folk, ethnic, spiritual and literary traditions, such as The Spiritual Dimensions of Rice Culture, Mak Yong Spiritual Dance Heritage, and Panji/Inao Traditions in Southeast Asia, all held in parallel with academic seminars. In addition, SEAMEO SPAFA has become increasingly involved in activities that highlight the increasingly fragile yet important links between nature and culture, as traditional wisdom is garnering international attention for its values in striking a harmonious balance with nature and thereby safeguarding its resources. In this proposed endeavour, ASEAN and SEAMEO SPAFA can combine their respective strengths and experiences by implementing a project that promotes cultural exchange, education, creativity and innovation in contemporary dance that are inspired by the region’s rich ethnic traditions in honouring nature and its gifts through rituals, dances, music, chants, beliefs, and material culture related to rain. 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
36 Problem Statement Within Southeast Asia, dance is often divided into separate categories: contemporary, ceremonial, traditional, ethnic, etc; and within contemporary dance, the influences are often Western, drawing from ballet, modern and jazz, rather than from local traditions. Rarely are the barriers between these broken down by synthesising traditional practices, ethnic cultures, and contemporary dances. This project is therefore envisioned to bring to the fore very important elements of Southeast Asia’s dynamic heritage that are often overlooked in contemporary dance. In essence, the project will attempt to bridge the past and the present onstage, demonstrating that there is space to reinterpret traditional and ethnic cultural expressions for audiences of today. It also provides an opportunity to tell stories about traditions and ethnic communities. Moreover, as the world is increasingly looking towards the past and exploring its roots in how humankind interacts with nature, there is a growing realisation that traditional wisdom and practices are more effective ways to ensure that our future is sustainable. Rituals associated with rain have been chosen as the central theme in this regional project to draw attention to the relationship between humankind and nature, moving away from the widely documented and performed Southeast Asian masked dances and traditional/ethnic dances related to agriculture, fishing, and courtship. Rain is a source of life for many Southeast Asian ethinc communities, and their dependence on it has brought forth a variety of practices or rituals that embody narratives about their relationship with, and linkage between, the natural and spiritual worlds. Such communal stories have become increasingly resonant in a time when the threat of climate change and constraints in hydrological resources are more pressing than ever. annual report //MAX.indd 36-37
37 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report Using the appeal of contemporary dance to communicate with today’s audience, this project aims to expose contemporary dancers and choreographers to traditional and/or ethnic practices in connection with nature as a source of inspiration in their artistic process to create and innovate. Bringing dancers and choreographers from different parts of the region to work together on a shared platform can help contribute towards intercultural understanding and appreciation for diversity. Moreover, the programme will stimulate knowledge exchanges by gathering scholars and researchers on both the tangible and intangible cultural heritage related to rain (e.g. archaeologists, historians, anthropologists, artists, folklorists, musicologists, etc.). Objectives 1. Stimulate innovation in the development of new contemporary dance creations using local Southeast Asian traditions as sources of inspiration 2. Facilitate the sharing of knowledge and experience among contemporary dancers, choreographers, and scholars in Southeast Asia 3. Increase appreciation for cultural and natural heritage preservation and contemporary dance among audiences in Southeast Asia Expected Outputs 1. One joint performance of a contemporary choreography inspired by the various countryspecific choreographies and traditions 2. 11 country-specific contemporary choreographies inspired by traditional practices related to rain 3. Videos and/or slides presented at the seminar 4. Video documentation of the performances and seminar to be made available online Expected Outcomes 1. Rain-related traditional and/or ethnic practices will provide lessons for climate adaptation in the present day 2. Exposure to traditional and/or ethnic practices related to rain dances, traditions and/ or rituals 3. Exchange and collaboration among contemporary Southeast Asian dancers and choreographers (SEAMEO SPAFA Goal 1 ; ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community or 1 ASCC Blueprint 2025 E.1) 4. Creation of an innovative and multicultural joint performance of regional inspiration highlighting the local identities of Southeast Asia (SEAMEO Culture Agenda Priority 1 ; SEAMEO SPAFA Goal 5 ; ASCC Blueprint E.1; ASEAN 3 4 Declaration on CoP Thrust 1) Progress Status 1. The methodology to develop and implement this project was decided on in consultation with the invited experts in anthropology and the performing arts. 2. The project will be conducted in a hybrid format including a) Brainstorming workshop (to be conducted online) offers the opportunity for the delegates from the participating countries to discuss, exchange knowledge and build mutual understanding on the traditional and ethnic cultural expressions associated with rain in Southeast Asia. b) Preparation workshop/s (to be conducted online) is a platform for the delegates to create a shared narrative of rain-related traditional and/or ethnic practices of Southeast Asia and a newly-created contemporary performance based on the narrative. c) Seminar and performance in Bangkok (to be conducted face-to-face) will be open to the public (mainly scholars and practitioners) with 50 targeted participants (inclusive of 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
38 UN Sustainable Development Goals • Safeguard cultural and natural heritage (SDG 11.4) • Protect and restore water-related ecosystems (SDG 6.6) • Promote the restoration and protection of marine and coastal ecosystems (SDG 14.2) • Integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into development processes (SDG 15.9) SEAMEO Culture Agenda Priorities • Creation, Tradition and Innovation (SEAMEO Culture Agenda Priority 1) • Resilience and Traditional Knowledge (SEAMEO Culture Agenda Priority 3) • Literacy and Appreciation in the Modern World (SEAMEO Culture Agenda Priority 5) • Peace and Intercultural Understanding (SEAMEO Culture Agenda Priority 6) ASCC Blueprint 2025 Elements • Empowered People and Strengthened Institutions (A.2) • Conservation and Sustainable Management of Biodiversity and Natural Resources (C.1) • Sustainable Climate (C.3) • Water resilient ASEAN (D.1) • Towards an Open and Adaptive ASEAN (E.1) speakers and organizers). For the seminar, the scholar of each delegation will present a paper on the traditional and ethnic cultural expressions associated with rain in Southeast Asia and how they are adapted and/or inspire the creation and invention of the contemporary performance to be shown in this event later on. Other scholars may also be invited to present examples of cultural expressions and practices that are closely intertwined with local mythology on rain. d) Representatives of each country may demonstrate a contemporary performance relevant to the theme of rain that they have prepared and rehearsed prior to going to Bangkok. A prominent and accomplished Thai choreographer will develop one new choreography relevant to the theme that will be performed by all dancers in a “finale performance”. 3. The concept notes attached with the invitation and tentative programme were already prepared and will be sent by the ASEAN SCC Focal Point of Thailand (Ministry of Culture) who will also be responsible for logistic matters. 4. It was agreed that the Thai choreographer and scholars would be invited while Thai Khadi Research Institute, Thammasat University would be invited as another partner organisation. 5. The venue at the Small Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre for the in-person activities, seminar and performance, has been reserved. Sustainability While the project will be a one-time event, it aims to leave a long-lasting impression among participating dancers, choreographers and the audience by raising awareness on the SDGs, SEAMEO SPAFA Goals, SEAMEO Culture Agenda 2020-2030, and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Blueprint 2025, specifically on the following: annual report //MAX.indd 38-39
39 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report Summary A series of one or two-day training activities on emergency response for heritage professionals in Southeast Asia will be organised online. The target beneficiaries will be heritage professionals from Southeast Asia who need to be trained on how to minimise the impact of unexpected and abrupt hazards that affect heritage. The programme aims to share fundamental conservation measures that can be applied when disaster or crisis occurs in order to reduce possible and/or extensive damage to heritage assets. Lessons from other parts of the world such as Syria and Lebanon will be shared by experts with hands-on experience in affected arEmergency Response for Cultural Heritage in Southeast Asia eas. Online consultative meetings and discussions among partners and a Myanmar coordinator had taken place, and a tentative programme focussing on Myanmar was developed with ICOMOS International Scientific Committee on Risk Preparedness; however, due to the instability in Myanmar, the Myanmar coordinator could not continue her support, thus necessitating alternative planning and coordination. General Information Type/Category Training Venue Onlinea Dates September 2021 - June 2022 Partners/Collaborators • UNESCO Bangkok • International Council on Monuments and Sites • (ICOMOS), France • International Centre for the Study of the Preservation • and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM), Italy Target Group/Beneficiar • Heritage professionals in Southeast Asia: • archaeologists • curators • architects • heritage site managers • conservation practitioners. 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
40 Background While the Centre has been working towards de - creasing impacts to heritage from disaster risks caused by natural hazards, aligning with interna - tional initiatives such as the Sendai Framework and UN Sustainable Development Goal No.13 on climate action, the need to respond to humaninduced disaster and crisis has become clearly imperative in protecting heritage assets. In many cases, cultural heritage that is considered the representation of the identity of a community (spiritual, ethnic or political) are at risk from suf - fering serious damages. Looting, vandalism and illegal trafficking are often rampant during times of human crisis, which can last much longer than natural hazards due to uncertainty and vulner - ability. While disaster risk management planning in - cludes mitigation measures for preparedness, emergency response and post-disaster recovery as proposed actions to be implemented before, during and after a disaster, adapted emergency responses are crucial in the context of continu - ous events, especially over long periods, in order to limit the negative impact on damages to heritage. Thus, relevant professionals should be equipped with the capacity to urgently implement mitigation measures as a timely response. Problem Statement In Southeast Asia as in other parts of the world, there have been continuing changes turbulences due to political instability and other disruption - schanges. In these situations, the threat to cul - tural heritage, including cultural assets and the community of professionals/custodians, is hardly acknowledged by the general public and people in charge. As a result, the damage or impact to cultural heritage from human-induced calamities is underestimated or is not taken into account. annual report //MAX.indd 40-41
41 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report Expected Outputs 1. Curriculum containing series of short trainings on emergency response for areas of armed conflict and turbulence 2. Training materials 3. Collection of data on emergency response meas - ures Expected Outcomes 1. Heritage professionals in Southeast Asia will learn how to limit damages and impacts from vio - Heritage professionals in the region are not pre - pared to cope with these situations, as some lack experience in and understanding of emergency actions, at times when the necessary resources to implement mitigation measures are limited. This series of short training activities will provide fundamental principles in the necessary measures and practices to be taken during emergencies that heritage professionals can apply even with limited resources while coping with considerable constraints. Objectives 1. Provide fundamental principles in disaster risk management focusing on emergency response measures during armed conflicts and turbulences. 2. Provide hands-on practical exercises in first-aid action with limited resources 3. Reduce extensive damage and impact to cultural heritage Proposed Methodology 1. Conduct brainstorming meetings among po - tential collaborators including ICOMOS, UNESCO Bangkok, ICOMOS Myanmar and SEAMEO SPAFA to prepare the training programme 2. Hold consultative meetings online with experts who have been working in conflict areas to collect information and develop course content based on Southeast Asian contexts 3. Organise a series of one or two-day online train - ing activities to provide specific emergency meas - ures for participants lence and conflicts to cultural heritage 2. Heritage professionals in Southeast Asia will be more aware of the risk of armed conflict and turbu - lence 3. Heritage professionals in Southeast Asia will be provided with principles in and understanding of reducing damage and impact to cultural heritage from armed conflict and turbulence Expected Impacts 1. Value and significance of heritage in Southeast Asia will be better protected 2. Increased mutual understanding of cultural herit - age as representation of community and collective identities that increases acceptance of the plurality of practices, cultural expressions, beliefs, ideolo - gies and historical narratives Progress Status 1. Online consultative meetings and discus - sions among partners and a Myanmar coordinator were done to confirm the possibility for targeted participants to join. 2. Tentative programme was further developed with ICOMOS International Scientific Committee on Risk Preparedness 3. Due to the instability in Myanmar, the My - anmar coordinator could not continue her sup - port, thus necessitating alternative planning and coordination. The project has been paused at the moment. Sustainability This project will ensure that the cultural heritage in Southeast Asia will be sustained and continue to benefit the surrounding communities socially and economically, as most heritage places are religious sites and/or tourist destinations. The existence and maintenance of the heritage places, in conse - quence, will result in improving the quality of life of the people who live around them, and conse - quently, to the nation. 21/6/2566 BE 08:25
42 KM Activity 1 KM Learning and Sharing with SEAMEO Centres Type/Category KM Learning and Sharing Venue Online Dates 20 December 2021 Partners/Collaborators SEAMEO Secretariat Summary The activity is a learning session to share with others interested in KM practices. Having developed KM for eight years, SEAMEO SPAFA and the SEAMEO SECRETARIAT organized this activity to better understand and learn the concept and basic practices of Knowledge Management (KM). It allowed participants to share the KM practices at the individual SEAMEO Units, and consider how to apply the practices in their respective Centres. annual report //MAX.indd 42-43
43 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report Background & Problem Statement In 2012, the First SEAMEO Training-Workshop on KM was held in SEARCA in Los Banos, Laguna, Philippines. One of four points of actions decided at the event was for SEAMEO units to benchmark and visit institutions that are practising KM. A year later, SEAMEO SPAFA conducted a KM capacity building workshop to assess organizational needs and problems, and recommend cost-effective KM solutions and tools. Since then, the Centre has been carrying out KM activities, and as a result was called upon to share the impact, benefits, problems, and difficulties for the other Centres to understand the processes and pitfalls. Objectives 1. To understand and learn the concept and basic practices of Knowledge Management (KM). 2. To share the KM practices at the individual SEAMEO Units 3. To be able to apply the successful practices learned from SEAMEO SPAFA for the benefit of the SEAMEO Centres. Outputs • Presentations on SEAMEO SPAFA’s experience in KM Organizing team • Mr Ean Lee (Consultant, SEAMEO SPAFA) • Ms Piyapa Su-angavatin (KM Manager, SEAMEO SECRETARIAT) Presenters: Mr Ean Lee (Consultant, SEAMEO SPAFA); Ms Vassana Kerdsupap (Programme Secretary, SEAMEO SPAFA) Host: Ms Piyapa Su-angavatin (KM Manager, SEAMEO SECRETARIAT) 21/6/2566 BE 08:26
Summary The activities enabled the incoming Programme and Documentation Officers to learn more about the Governing Board Meeting and the tasks of organizing it as well as the implementation cycle and processes of projects. Objectives 1. Provide the Programme and Documentation Officers an overview of the Governing Board Meeting and the project implementation cycle. 2. Help the Programme and Documentation Officers understand the processes involved in organizing the GBM as well as in implementing Centre projects or activities KM Activity 2 KM for Programme and Documentation Officer Type/Category Orientation and guidance on GBM and Programme Implementation Venue Online Dates 3 March 2022 and 17 March 2022 respectively Partners/Collaborators SEAMEO Secretariat Summary The activity is a learning session to share with others interested in KM practices. Having developed KM for eight years, SEAMEO SPAFA and the SEAMEO SECRETARIAT organized this activity to better understand and learn the concept and basic practices of Knowledge Management (KM). It allowed participants to share the KM practices at the individual SEAMEO Units, and consider how to apply the practices in their respective Centres. annual report //MAX.indd 44-45
Audited Financial Report FY 2021–2022 SEAMEO SPAFA GRANTS AND INCOMES FY 2021–2022 Source Unit in US$ % Government of Thailand 869,455 4,135 3,000 9 468 877,067 99.13 0.47 0.34 0.001 0.05 100.00 Registration Income of Rock Art Course Interest Income Sale of SPAFA Publications Miscellaneous (income) Miscellaneous (income) GOVEERNMENT OF THAILAND 99.13% REGISTRSTION INCOME OF ROCK ART COURSE 0.47% INTEREST INCOME 0.34SALE OF SPAFA PUBLICATIONS 0.001% MISCELLANEOUS 0.05 21/6/2566 BE 08:26
46 CAPITAL FUNDS OPERATING FUNDS Transportation Equipment 29,788 279 Library Materials Total 30,067 Salaries and Wages 412,964 38,286 4,998 4,846 12,482 6,791 9,009 1,709 5,660 829 3,221 2,015 Staff Benefits Travel and Transportation Repairs and Maintenance Operating Supplies Representation and Entertainment Communications Professional Services (Audits) Insurance Premium Utilities Clearinghouse and Professional Publications Miscellaneous US$ Total 502,810 Grand Total 532,877 DETAILED EXPENDITURE FY 2021–2022 annual report //MAX.indd 46-47
47 SEAMEO SPAFA 2021-2022 Annual Report For fiscal year 2021-2022, several partners collaborated with SEAMEO-SPAFA to organize projects and activities that were mostly carried out online. They contributed greatly to the implementation of the Centre’s annual programme. One such longterm partner and collaborator is the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and the Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM). The close collaboration yielded several initiatives; including CollAsia 2022: Collections, Conservation, and Sustainable Development, a training course that will serve as a capacity-building initiative for heritage professionals in the region to strengthen their collections-based practices and efforts in the context of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). The preparation and development of the course has been ongoing, and the training will eventually be held in Siem Reap, Cambodia in November 2022, the following fiscal year. Our Collections Matter (OCM) toolkit, an ICCROM programme that provides tools and training to improve conservation practices which SPAFA contributes to, will be used in the said training course. ICCROM also supported SPAFA SESHes, an online series on archaeology NO PROJECT ASSIGNMENT PERIOD PERIOD 1 SPAFACON2021 Online Conference Govt of Thailand $483 2 Rock Art of Southeast Asia and the World Online Training Course Govt of Thailand $148 3 SPAFA SESH Season 2 (Seminars-EventsShows-HowTos) Online Programme Govt of Thailand $827 4 Promoting Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) in Southeast Asia – Three Decades of Ayutthaya World Heritage: Values, Challenges and Impact Online Seminar Govt of Thailand $1,977 5 SPAFA50 Commemoration Govt of Thailand $1,022 Total : US$ 4,457 and arts, through participating in two SESHes conducted in 2021. Other partners include the British Council Thailand, Turquoise Mountain UK, English Heritage UK, Nottingham Trent University’s Centre for Architecture, Urbanism and Global Heritage (CAUGH), King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) School of Architecture, Art, and Design and Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Architecture. As heritage institutions, NGOs, civil society organizations, professionals, and researchers from the region and the UK, they shared field experiences in the Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth (CH4IG) project that aims to understand the needs, challenges, and opportunities for the contribution of built heritage conservation and management towards the inclusive growth of communities in Southeast Asia. ASEAN is also a major partner in collaboration on the project, “Rain Motions: Connecting (with) the Skies of Southeast Asia”, an endeavour to promote knowledge sharing, collaboration, creativity and innovation in the performing arts in Southeast Asia using local traditions as sources of inspiration. 21/6/2566 BE 08:26
48 Annual Report 2021-2022 Partners and Collaborations For fiscal year 2021-2022, several partners collaborated with SEAMEO-SPAFA to organize projects and activities that were mostly carried out online. They contributed greatly to the implementation of the Centre’s annual programme. One such long-term partner and collaborator is the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and the Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM). The close collaboration yielded several initiatives; including CollAsia 2022: Collections, Conservation, and Sustainable Development, a training course that will serve as a capacity-building initiative for heritage professionals in the region to strengthen their collections-based practices and efforts in the context of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). The preparation and development of the course has been ongoing, and the training will eventually be held in Siem Reap, Cambodia in November 2022, the following fiscal year. Our Collections Matter (OCM) toolkit, an ICCROM programme that provides tools and training to improve conservation practices which SPAFA contributes to, will be used in the said training course. ICCROM also supported SPAFA SESHes, an online series on archaeology and arts, through participating in two SESHes conducted in 2021. Other partners include the British Council Thailand, Turquoise Mountain UK, English Heritage UK, Nottingham Trent University’s Centre for Architecture, Urbanism and Global Heritage (CAUGH), King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) School of Architecture, Art, and Design and Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Architecture. As heritage institutions, NGOs, civil society organizations, professionals, and researchers from the region and the UK, they shared field experiences in the Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth (CH4IG) project that aims to understand the needs, challenges, and opportunities for the contribution of built heritage conservation and management towards the inclusive growth of communities in Southeast Asia. ASEAN is also a major partner in collaboration on the project, “Rain Motions: Connecting (with) the Skies of Southeast Asia”, an endeavour to promote knowledge sharing, collaboration, creativity and innovation in the performing arts in Southeast Asia using local traditions as sources of inspiration. The Fine Arts Department of Thailand and UNESCO Bangkok partnered SEAMEO SPAFA in a pilot activity for introducing the practice of heritage impact assessment (HIA) as a valuable tool for mitigation measures. Through its activity, Promoting Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) in Southeast Asia – Three Decades of Ayutthaya World Heritage: Values, Challenges and Impact, the value and significance of Ayutthaya were highlighted in a two-day online seminar. It raised awareness of hidden factors contributing to impact, and presented an opportunity for sharing of knowledge that can reconcile conservation with development. The Fine Arts Department of Thailand also collaborated with SEAMEO SPAFA on a two-month online course on Rock Art of Southeast Asia and the World, where Rock Art experts from all over the world shared their knowledge and expertise, and presented foundational knowledge of rock art. annual report //MAX.indd 48 21/6/2566 BE 08:26