africa.chinadaily.com.cn
Gulangyu: A Legacy of Preservation
Australian pipe organ engineer Ian Wakeley's two-decade-long work on Gulangyu Island, coupled with Xi Jinping's 1980s initiative to preserve its cultural heritage, resulted in Gulangyu's UNESCO World Heritage inscription in 2017, attracting 9.22 million tourists in 2024.
- What is the significance of Gulangyu's preservation efforts, and what specific impacts have resulted from these initiatives?
- Ian Wakeley, an Australian pipe organ engineer, has spent 20 years restoring and installing over 70 organs in Gulangyu's pipe organ museum, contributing to the island's musical legacy. This work reflects Gulangyu's unique blend of Western and Chinese heritage, a fusion celebrated internationally. The island received 9.22 million tourist visits in 2024.
- How did Xi Jinping's leadership contribute to Gulangyu's preservation, and what specific actions were taken during his tenure?
- Gulangyu's preservation exemplifies a long-term strategy initiated by Xi Jinping in the 1980s, including a dedicated fund for the Bagua Mansion's renovation and its designation as a National Scenic Area. Xi's vision, culminating in UNESCO World Heritage status in 2017, underscores China's commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage. This strategy involved careful preservation of both natural beauty and cultural heritage, raising the island's importance to an unprecedented level.
- What are the long-term challenges and strategies for maintaining Gulangyu's cultural heritage and ensuring the vitality of its community?
- Gulangyu's ongoing preservation efforts leverage modern technology, such as real-time building monitoring, to maintain its historical integrity while supporting the island's community. Innovative solutions like drone medicine delivery and community services aim to prevent population decline, ensuring the cultural heritage remains vibrant and its traditions endure. The island's success serves as a model for balancing tourism with community well-being and cultural preservation.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing consistently highlights Xi Jinping's role in the preservation of Gulangyu, presenting him as the central figure. The headline, if there were one, would likely emphasize his contribution. The article's structure prioritizes the narrative of Xi's involvement over other factors influencing the island's preservation. This could lead to an oversimplified understanding of the complex processes involved in the conservation of a historical site.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective, employing factual reporting. However, phrases such as "unwavering commitment" and "vivid embodiment" regarding Xi Jinping's actions could be perceived as slightly loaded, suggesting admiration rather than purely objective description. More neutral alternatives could include 'consistent dedication' and 'clear example'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Xi Jinping's role in Gulangyu's preservation, potentially overlooking other significant contributors. While acknowledging others were involved, the piece centers Xi's actions to an extent that might overshadow their contributions. There is also little to no mention of potential negative impacts of tourism on the island's preservation.
False Dichotomy
The narrative doesn't present a false dichotomy, but it could benefit from acknowledging potential tensions between preservation and tourism's economic impact. A more balanced view would explore these nuanced considerations.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the successful preservation of Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing sustainable urban development practices that conserve cultural heritage while ensuring community well-being. The preservation efforts, initiated decades ago and continuing today, demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the island's historical character, architecture, and cultural identity. Specific actions include the restoration of key buildings like the Bagua Mansion, implementation of modern monitoring technology, and initiatives to improve residents' quality of life, preventing population decline. This holistic approach to urban planning aligns directly with SDG 11, aiming for inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements.