Ref ID:	22242
Ref Type:	Book Section
Authors:	Chaw Yeh Saw, Hsiao Mei Goh, Saidin, Mokhtar
Title:	Gua Tambun prehistoric rock art: a social perspective
Date:	2018
Source:	Advancing Southeast Asian archaeology 2016
Place of Publication:	Bangkok
Publisher:	SEAMEO SPAFA Regional Centre for Archaeology and Fine Arts
Abstract:	This study explores contemporary interpretations of Gua Tambun Prehistoric Rock Art in Peninsular Malaysia from a social perspective. It argues that interpretations of rock art by contemporary societies are poorly researched in Malaysian archaeological studies and that an examination into contemporary perceptions would advance rock art conservation from the grass-roots level. To date, more than 600 rock art images have been documented at Gua Tambun over three seasons of exploration since 1959. However, it is ironic to point out that interpretations of Gua Tambun Rock Art are solely archaeologically orientated and still socially under-represented. This reflects a “pattern of social exclusion” and further suggests an urge to encourage the inclusion of local community in rock art interpretation. Given that it is important not to undervalue the perception and attachment of the contemporary society towards the rock art, this study sheds light on the meanings that contemporary society give s rock art , specifically how contemporary society attaches meaning to the rock art through long-term social interaction with Gua Tambun.
Identifier:	978-616-7961-16-3
Date Created:	4/10/2018
Editors:	Tan, Noel Hidalgo
Page Start:	215
Page End:	226