europe.chinadaily.com.cn
Gulangyu Island: A Legacy of Preservation
Gulangyu Island, off the coast of Xiamen, China, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its blend of Western and Chinese architecture and its many pipe organs; Xi Jinping's early support, starting in the 1980s, was pivotal in its preservation, leading to its UNESCO recognition in 2017 and attracting 9.22 million visitors in 2024.
- How did Xi Jinping's early involvement shape Gulangyu's preservation, and what specific actions did he take?
- Gulangyu's preservation exemplifies Xi Jinping's commitment to cultural heritage. His early support, including a 300,000 yuan fund for Bagua Mansion's renovation in the 1980s and the 1985-2000 Xiamen socioeconomic development strategy, was crucial to its UNESCO World Heritage status in 2017. This strategy prioritized preserving both natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- What is the significance of Gulangyu's preservation efforts, and what are the immediate impacts of this conservation?
- Ian Wakeley, an Australian pipe organ engineer, has spent 20 years installing and repairing organs in Gulangyu, contributing to its musical heritage. This work is part of a larger preservation effort, highlighting the island's unique blend of Western and Chinese architectural styles and its significance as a living monument.
- What are the challenges and opportunities for Gulangyu's future, considering both its cultural preservation and its growing tourism?
- Gulangyu's future involves balancing preservation with sustainable tourism. While 9.22 million tourists visited in 2024, efforts are underway to prevent population decline by improving education and healthcare access for residents. This approach ensures that the island's cultural heritage remains vibrant and intertwined with the lives of its community.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is framed to highlight Xi Jinping's pivotal role in Gulangyu's preservation. The opening anecdote about the organ restoration sets a positive tone, then the article immediately transitions to Xi's involvement in the 1980s. This prioritization might lead readers to overemphasize Xi's influence relative to others.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and factual. However, phrases like "unwavering commitment" and "vivid embodiment" in describing Xi Jinping's actions might be considered slightly loaded, conveying a more positive connotation than strictly objective reporting would allow. The use of "national treasure" is also a loaded term. More neutral alternatives could be used, such as 'dedicated effort' and 'significant example' for Xi's actions and 'important cultural site' instead of 'national treasure'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Xi Jinping's role in preserving Gulangyu, potentially overlooking other significant contributors to the island's preservation efforts. While mentioning other individuals involved, their contributions lack the detail and prominence given to Xi Jinping. This could create an incomplete picture of the island's preservation.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't present a false dichotomy, but it might benefit from acknowledging potential tensions between preservation and tourism. The piece celebrates both aspects but doesn't explore potential conflicts or compromises that may have been necessary.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the successful preservation of Gulangyu Island, a historical site, showcasing sustainable tourism practices that balance cultural heritage with economic benefits. The preservation efforts, initiated decades ago and supported by significant investment, have safeguarded the island's unique architectural and natural beauty, attracting millions of tourists while also implementing measures to support the local community. This demonstrates a commitment to sustainable urban development that integrates cultural preservation, tourism, and community well-being.