International Conference on Critical Heritage Studies & Digital Heritage in Makassar

Makassar, 14–16 July 2026 — The Archaeology Programme at Hasanuddin University hosted an International Networking Meeting on the theme of Critical Heritage Studies & Digital Heritage. The meeting took place at the Unhas Hotel in Makassar, with field visits to Fort Rotterdam and the Old Town area of Makassar.

The event, attended by researchers, museum practitioners and staff from the Cultural Heritage Preservation Centre (BPK), explored two main perspectives: Critical Heritage Studies, which emphasises that cultural heritage is a socio-political process that is constantly being produced and debated; and Digital Heritage, which highlights that every decision regarding digitisation is a design choice with ethical and practical consequences.

The first day focused on mapping stakeholders and critical frameworks for understanding heritage, including the concept of Authorised Heritage Discourse (Laurajane Smith) and the dynamics of dissonant and difficult heritage. The second day translated these frameworks into questions of digital design, emphasising the FAIR and CARE principles in data management. On the third day, participants tested both perspectives through field studies at Fort Rotterdam and Makassar Old Town, highlighting how these colonial sites are understood, interpreted and accessed by both the public and institutions.

The meeting also featured insights from Prof. Suzie Thomas and Prof. Piraye Hacıgüzeller, who provided both an academic foundation and practical reflections for the participants. Through a collaborative approach, this initiative is expected to strengthen the capacity of Indonesian academics and practitioners to link critical theory with digital heritage practice, whilst encouraging public participation in the management of cultural heritage.