ICT and Cultural Preservation: Empowering Indigenous Communities in Sabah and Beyond

Dr. Fang Yi Xue, a Lecturer at the School of General Studies and Languages (SGSL), Taylor’s University, was invited to deliver guest lectures on Human Rights, Politics, and Law: Analysing Human Rights and Political Practice in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia at Universitas Negeri Surabaya (UNESA) and Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), Indonesia.

Her sessions focused on the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in cultural preservation and the protection of indigenous rights in Sabah. Dr. Fang illustrated how digital tools can help document endangered languages, preserve cultural heritage, and empower indigenous communities to reclaim their narratives and advocate for their rights.

Joining a panel of international experts, Dr. Glenda E Feliprada from University of Santo Tomas, Philippines; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmad Tarmizi Talib from Universiti Putra Malaysia and Dr. Moch. Mubarok Muharam from Universitas Negeri Surabaya, the discussions addressed key human rights concerns including debtor protection, religious tolerance, and minority rights. The session, attended by over 150 students and academics at Universitas Negeri Surabaya, fostered meaningful dialogue and regional exchange.

Later at Universitas Airlangga, Dr. Fang was welcomed by Dr. Ahmad Safril Mubah, Deputy Head of International Relations and Managing Director of the Center for Strategic and Global Studies (CSGS), to deliver a similar lecture. She highlighted the critical challenges faced by indigenous communities land disputes, cultural erosion, and political marginalization, while emphasizing the transformative role of ICT in promoting cultural continuity and supporting rights-based advocacy.

Dr. Fang also drew attention to the digital divide affecting indigenous populations in Sabah, stressing the urgent need for inclusive policies, digital infrastructure development, and grassroots digital literacy initiatives. The sessions sparked vibrant discussions and inspired ideas for collaborative research, policy innovation, and technology-driven initiatives to advance indigenous rights across Southeast Asia.