Faiza Tehseen

Caretaker Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Syed Jamal Shah has highlighted the massive role of heritage and culture-based developments in the economy to generate better incomes for people. Talking to WealthPK, he said the heritage and cultural economy provided equal rights to all communities and genders, especially women and transgender individuals. “In modern times, culture is embedded in the socioeconomic cultural framework. Showcasing rich heritage and culture as a valuable product can leverage the tourism sector also,” he underscored. Jamal Shah said that heritage sites and cultural activities played a vital role in promoting tourism, so heritage, culture and tourism were interwoven in an inseparable way. “If you visit the outer world, all these components will be seen to play their active part in the economic cycle. I am quoting the example of China, where tourism is one of the strongest economic sectors. China invests heavily in the tourism sector, particularly heritage and cultural tourism.

These investments provide a good income source for the residents of the areas where these projects are launched. Chinese expertise in conserving and promoting their heritage is excellent.” The minister said the Takht-i-Bahi heritage site in Mardan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had a rich historical background. “If it is developed by using Chinese heritage and culture promotion techniques, I am sure only this heritage site can generate more income than any other government entity in Mardan city.” Jamal Shah said cultural diversity in Pakistan could be used as a source of sustainable income and poverty alleviation. “This part of the world, where Pakistan is located, is also called the melting pot of cultures and religions. The cultural history of this land is 9,500 years old, starting from Mehar Garh. A lot of people would have visited this place, settled here, would have adopted different traits and contributed to many activities. All these treasures are part of our rich cultural tapestry.

This is a tragedy that despite having such a rich heritage, no effort has ever taken place to increase awareness at a large scale about cultural heritage.” Jamal Shah also quoted the example of Chinese opera, saying that it was ancient in nature. “They have improved and developed their traditional opera at such a level that it represents both its pure olden form and the modern form as well. Chinese films, literature, products, etc., amply reflect their tradition. So, all the forms of association, whether it is opera, dance, theatre, music, artistry, handicrafts, etc., are effective tools to advance society and to support the economy.” The caretaker culture minister said it was unfortunate that traditional art forms had almost vanished in Pakistan. He said cultural infrastructure should be spread across the country by setting up exhibition centres, auditoriums and theatres, to allow talent to polish. “This boost in cultural infrastructure will lead to a creative economy, which will contribute immensely to the people’s wellbeing.”

Credit: INP-WealthPk