Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed has reviewed China’s extensive efforts to preserve historical documents and documentary heritage during her official visit to the country, gaining first-hand insight into how written records are protected, managed and passed on to future generations.
During the visit, Minister Heena toured the Hangzhou branch of the National Archives of Publications and Culture, where she observed China’s work to safeguard historical publications and important written records. The visit provided an opportunity to learn more about the role of archival preservation in protecting cultural memory, strengthening national identity and ensuring that historically significant materials remain accessible for future generations.
Minister Heena also visited Zhejiang Library in Hangzhou, where she was briefed on the institution’s work to preserve documentary heritage while expanding access to information and knowledge. The visit highlighted the importance of modern library services in protecting valuable collections, supporting education and research, promoting reading habits and encouraging lifelong learning among communities.
China has placed strong emphasis on preserving its historical and cultural legacy while developing modern methods for conservation, documentation and public access. Its approach has also provided valuable examples for countries across Asia seeking to strengthen the protection of cultural heritage while making historical knowledge more accessible to future generations.
The engagements are expected to provide useful perspectives for the Maldives as the Government continues to strengthen national efforts in the areas of culture, heritage preservation, archives and knowledge management. Exposure to international practices and institutional models can support the development of stronger approaches to protecting the Maldives’ own documentary and cultural heritage.
Minister Heena’s visit is part of her official engagement in China, where she is representing the Maldives at the fourth Council Meeting of the Alliance for Cultural Heritage in Asia. The regional organisation brings together countries and institutions committed to promoting cooperation in the protection, preservation and sustainable management of cultural heritage across Asia.
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