ESEAP Conference 2024/Submissions/Preserving The Manuscripts Of The Malay World Using Wikisource

[Preserving The Manuscripts Of The Malay World Using Wikisource]

Abstract/description

The Malay ethnic group, widely residing in the Asian region, particularly Southeast Asia, plays a central role in these preservation efforts. With a substantial population in Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore, and southern Thailand, they become an integral element in conserving the literary heritage of Malay-Arabic. The active involvement of the Malay community in training and preserving manuscripts not only enriches Wikisource content but also strengthens the identity and cultural contributions of the Malay society as a whole. Thus, it is necessary for the preservation of Malay manuscripts with Wikisource. However, there are several challenges in the accuracy of transcription, linguistic nuances, and handling regional scripts. While the platform fosters collaboration and accessibility for archiving cultural heritage, addressing these issues is imperative. Sustained community engagement and addressing copyright concerns are crucial. Societal challenges in reading Malay-Arabic script, including deciphering handwriting, spelling variations, and the use of classical Malay, add complexity to transcription. Overcoming these challenges involves conducting training sessions, especially in Southeast Asian countries, introducing Wikisource (Wikisumber Cinta Bahasa Melayu) and honing reading skills in Malay-Arabic script. Training has occurred in six locations across Indonesia and Malaysia, with hopes to expand to Brunei Darussalam, Singapore, and southern Thailand. This proactive approach enhances accessibility and promotes collaboration in preserving Malay literary heritage. A structured approach and supporting technologies are essential to safeguard the Malay world's rich literary heritage through Wikisource.

Relationship to ESEAP or to the theme

Aligned with the theme "Collaboration beyond the horizon," this initiative emphasizes the importance of extensive collaboration across diverse communities, transcending geographical boundaries. The collaborative spirit inherent in Wikisource provides a platform for stakeholders beyond the horizon to contribute to preserving the valuable cultural heritage of the Malay world.

Username/s

• Speaker: Lim Natee

Session type

Lecture

Duration

30 minutes (20 minutes presentation, 10 minutes discussion)

Session outcomes

• Wikisource as a Learning Platform: Recognizing Wikisource not solely as a manuscript repository but also as a valuable resource for learning transcription, especially for Malay-Arabic manuscripts.
• Stimulation of Community Involvement: The realization that Wikisource serves as a platform that stimulates community participation.
• Enhancement of Transcription Skills: Acknowledging the positive impact on individuals' transcription skills through engagement with Wikisource.
• Copyright Awareness: Emphasizing the role of Wikisource in raising awareness about copyright issues related to manuscripts.
• Cross-Border Collaboration: Highlighting the platform's contribution to fostering collaboration beyond borders, showcasing a global effort in preserving Malay literary heritage.
• Proactive Approach for Accessibility: Reflecting on the success of a proactive approach employed in enhancing accessibility to Malay-Arabic manuscripts through Wikisource.
• Preserving Malay Literary Heritage: Demonstrating Wikisource's role in the preservation of Malay literary heritage.
• Alignment with Theme - "Collaboration beyond the Horizon": Linking the outcomes to the overarching theme that emphasizes the significance of collective efforts in cultural preservation.