Tech Awakens Heritage: Prof. Henry Duh Leads a New Era of Intangible Cultural Heritage Preservation, Featured in Singapore Channel News Asia

(Singapore) Channel News Asia spotlights the groundbreaking efforts of Prof. Henry Duh, Director of the POLYU-NVIDIA Joint Research Centre, and his team in integrating cutting-edge technology with intangible cultural heritage (ICH). From generative AI capturing master craftsmen’s skills to VR-enabled learning and AI-created "digital humans" reviving indigenous cultures, their work, alongside the participation of young entrepreneurs, proves that technology is not just a tool for preservation, but a bridge connecting tradition to the younger generation. Backed by national funding, this initiative is redefining how heritage thrives in the modern era.

In a television interview, Prof. Henry Duh emphasized the inadequacies of conventional ICH preservation methods today. “While traditional approaches respect the essence of heritage, they are often slow and fail to resonate with young people,” he explained. “Digital technology is a transformative force—it makes traditional crafts more accessible and engaging, effectively sparking the younger generation’s interest.” This year, PolyU made history as Hong Kong’s first UGC-funded tertiary institution to secure funding from the China National Arts Fund. The funding supports the university’s mission to revitalize traditional arts and drive the digital transformation of the cultural sector.

Under Prof. Duh’s guidance, PolyU’s PhD students have launched a series of pioneering initiatives. One project led by PhD student Chai Yichen utilizes generative AI to capture the intricate techniques of a master porcelain painter, simplifying complex processes into interactive, easy-to-follow steps. “Masters often struggle to articulate their skills using terminology that young people can understand,” Prof. Duh noted. “3D digital replication and virtual reality (VR) allow learners to observe workflows from multiple angles—a distinct advantage over traditional videos.”

VR technology also addresses the scarcity of master artisans by enabling skill acquisition without the need for physical proximity to craftsmen. Another standout project, led by PhD student Xu Yue, leverages AI to create a “digital human” representing the Tanka people—Hong Kong’s indigenous boat-dwelling community whose culture is rapidly fading. “Interactive tools such as QR code audio guides can bridge the gap between young people and these marginalized cultures,” Xu said, adding that the project’s engaging format has already sparked youth interest in cultural heritage.

Researchers quoted in the coverage stressed that for traditional crafts to thrive in the modern world, they must be applicable, relatable, and integrated into daily life. Through the collaboration of academia, technology, and youth creativity, the Research Centre is dedicated to opening a new chapter for the inheritance of intangible cultural heritage.

To learn more about the information, please visit: Young Hong Kong residents apply modern touches to preserve traditional crafts, attract new crowds