On the evening of November 27th, 2024, a significant ceremony took place in Tịnh Biên town, An Giang Province, to celebrate the recognition of the traditional craft of palm sugar making by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. This event, organized in collaboration with the Tịnh Biên Town People’s Committee, marks an important milestone for the local Khmer ethnic community in Tịnh Biên and Tri Tôn district.
Palm Sugar Making: A Traditional Craft with Cultural Significance
According to Nguyễn Thanh Hùng, the Vice Chairman of the Tịnh Biên Town People’s Committee, the craft of palm sugar making is a traditional artisan skill that embodies distinctive cultural characteristics. This craft not only satisfies current consumer demands but also serves as a vital link to the region’s cultural heritage. The official recognition of palm sugar making as a national intangible cultural heritage is a source of pride for the Khmer people and lays a solid foundation for the local authorities and the Khmer community to enhance their commitment to preserving and promoting their cultural heritage.
A Commitment to Preservation and Promotion in Progress of Palm Sugar Making
During the ceremony, Trương Bá Trạng, Deputy Director of the An Giang Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, congratulated the local government, artisans, and the Khmer community in Tịnh Biên and Tri Tôn for receiving this prestigious honor. He emphasized that the department would collaborate with local authorities to develop a comprehensive plan for the preservation and promotion of palm sugar making from 2025 to 2030.
A Rich Heritage Recognized
Prior to this recent recognition, An Giang Province was home to seven other cultural heritages acknowledged by the government, which include:
- The Vía Bà Chúa Xứ Núi Sam Festival
- The Bảy Núi Cow Racing Festival
- Knowledge and Techniques of Writing on Palm Leaves by the Khmer
- The Kỳ Yên Festival at Thoại Ngọc Hầu Shrine (Thọai Sơn District)
- Life Cycle Rituals of the Cham Islam community in Tân Châu and An Phú districts
- The Weaving of Traditional Textiles by the Cham in Châu Phong (Tân Châu Town)
- The Dì Kê Performing Arts of the Khmer community in Ô Lâm (Tri Tôn District)
This milestone not only enriches the cultural landscape of An Giang but also highlights the significance of supporting traditional crafts that contribute to the region’s identity and heritage.
Conclusion
The recognition of palm sugar making as a national intangible cultural heritage signifies a vital step forward in preserving the rich cultural traditions of the Khmer people in An Giang. It encourages both the local community and authorities to continue their efforts in safeguarding and promoting the invaluable cultural practices that define their identity. As tourism grows in significance, such cultural assets will undoubtedly attract visitors seeking authentic experiences in Vietnam’s diverse heritage.
