Towards Digital Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Exploring Serious Games for Songket Tradition

Abstract

Over the past few decades, Malaysia has undergone remarkable technological advancement, establishing itself as a vibrant hub for innovation in Southeast Asia. However, technological progress must be harmonized with preserving and promoting the country's cultural heritage. Digital preservation of cultural heritage emerges as a critical endeavor, particularly for future generations. Nonetheless, there remains a notable deficiency in preservation methodologies for cultural heritage, particularly concerning technological approaches. This paper delves into the realm of cultural heritage and presents findings from a study on preserving Songket's heritage. Interviews were conducted with three experts on Songket heritage, revealing a prevailing lack of awareness regarding Songket heritage preservation. Additionally, the analysis highlights inherent flaws in current preservation methods, hindering efforts to engage a wider audience, particularly the younger generation. The experts unanimously advocate digitizing heritage knowledge, including the integration of serious games, to facilitate Songket preservation and safeguarding efforts. The use of serious games can also attract and engage the younger generation to the heritage of Songket.