Ning Li, Rose Dahlina Rusli, Xiao Huang, Sunita Panicker, Krishnaprabha Biju, Johanna Paulina Estrada Cherres
ABSTRACT
Globalization is increasingly altering the structure, meaning, and transmission of local art forms, However, its nuanced impact on community cohesion remains underexplored. This study investigates how global cultural flows reshape traditional artistic practices, influence symbolic continuity, and affect community identity, intergenerational dynamics, and social participation. A qualitative, interpretive case study design was applied in two culturally distinct regions: an urbanizing coastal community and a rural inland village. Data were collected through 6 months of ethnographic fieldwork, in-depth interviews (n=32), and focus group discussions (n=5), and analyzed using thematic and discourse analysis. Results revealed that generational divergence in artistic engagement, with youth favouring hybrid and digital forms, while elders preserved traditional rituals and storytelling. Global aesthetics (62%) and hybrid art (68%) were widely adopted, however, cultural symbolism declined (47%). Institutional support was uneven, with school-based programs and grant funding rated highest. Globalization fosters artistic innovation while challenging cultural continuity. Policy and NGO strategies must be locally embedded and intergenerationally inclusive to sustain intangible heritage.
