Liangzhu Forum 2025: Where 5,000-Year-Old Heritage Fuels A Futuristic City

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 (Bernama) -- The third Liangzhu Forum will be held in Yuhang District, Hangzhou, eastern China, from Oct 18 to 20, highlighting the coexistence of global civilisations and how the city blends ancient heritage with modern innovation.

Home to 5,000-year-old archaeological ruins, Yuhang is where jade cong artefacts, ancient dams and early urban layouts stand alongside modern communities and technology hubs, reflecting a balance between cultural preservation and urban progress.

Through heritage protection and sustainable development, Yuhang has transformed into a hub for creative industries and young global talent, breathing new life into its ancient legacy.

Liangzhu Museum director of the digital information department, Luo Xiaohong in a statement said over 200 artefacts have been digitised to ensure their preservation for future generations, as cultural relics may fade, but data endures forever.

Technology plays a key role in protecting the Liangzhu heritage. At the Laohuling Dam Ruins, smart sensors and automated systems monitor environmental conditions in real time, while a network of cameras, drones, and underground sensors safeguards the entire 162-square-kilometre site.

Digital innovation has also enhanced visitor experiences. At Liangzhu Museum and archaeological parks, QR codes, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies allow visitors to visualise ancient palaces and interact with digital artefacts.

Yuhang’s 2022 launch of the Liangzhu Cultural Corridor has positioned it as a global hub for digital culture, housing over 1,000 enterprises in content, animation and gaming. In 2024, 203 cultural firms in the district generated 609.98 billion Chinese yuan in revenue, accounting for more than half of Hangzhou’s cultural industry output. (100 Chinese yuan = RM59.34)

The district has also introduced policies and dedicated funds to support creative projects, micro-dramas and talent development, while scenic cultural sites such as Yuhu Lake and the Liangzhu 5000+ Art & Innovation Park continue to attract young people from around the world.

From the cradle of a 5,000-year-old civilisation to a modern innovation hub, Liangzhu stands as a living example of how ancient heritage and modern life can thrive together in harmony.

-- BERNAMA