In the heart of Malaysia, a groundbreaking project is redefining how we engage with cultural heritage, particularly for those who are often left on the sidelines. Nur Faqihah Adnan, a recent graduate from the School of Housing, Building and Planning at University Sains Malaysia, is leading the charge with her innovative research on immersive installations designed to make Malay proverbs accessible to the hearing impaired.
Proverbs, a cornerstone of Malay culture, have been passed down through generations, encapsulating wisdom, history, and life lessons. However, the oral tradition that has preserved these nuggets of wisdom poses a significant barrier for the hearing impaired, who often miss out on the rich cultural tapestry they weave. Adnan’s research, published in ARTEKS : Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur, aims to bridge this gap, ensuring that everyone can appreciate and understand the profound meanings behind these proverbs.
Immersive installations, which often incorporate noise elements, tactile experiences, vibrations, and scents, are at the heart of Adnan’s approach. “The goal is to create an environment where hearing-impaired individuals can experience proverbs in a way that resonates with them,” Adnan explains. “By engaging multiple senses, we can make these cultural artifacts more accessible and meaningful.”
The potential commercial impacts of this research are vast, particularly in the energy sector, where inclusivity and accessibility are increasingly valued. Companies that invest in creating inclusive environments not only enhance their corporate social responsibility profiles but also tap into a broader market. Immersive installations can be adapted for various settings, from corporate training programs to public exhibitions, making cultural heritage more accessible to all.
Adnan’s study, which combines literature reviews, case studies, and observations, is a qualitative exploration of how space design principles can be tailored for the hearing impaired. “It’s not just about making spaces accessible; it’s about making them engaging and inclusive,” she notes. “This research can pave the way for future developments in architecture and design, ensuring that cultural heritage is preserved and shared in a way that includes everyone.”
The implications of Adnan’s work extend beyond Malaysia, offering a blueprint for other cultures to make their oral traditions accessible to the hearing impaired. As the world becomes more interconnected, the need for inclusive design principles becomes ever more pressing. Adnan’s research, published in ARTEKS : Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur, which translates to “ARTEKS : Journal of Architectural Engineering,” is a significant step forward in this direction.
As we look to the future, the potential for immersive installations to transform how we engage with cultural heritage is immense. Adnan’s pioneering work is not just about making proverbs accessible; it’s about creating a more inclusive world where everyone can participate in and appreciate the rich tapestry of human experience.