Asia News Network launches new e-book celebrating continent's cultural heritage

The Asia News Network (ANN), an alliance of 20 leading news titles across the continent, has released a new e-book dedicated to celebrating the cultural heritage, modern innovation, and enduring spirit of Asia.

The e-book, titled Inside Asia’s Hidden Heritage Treasures, aims to offer global and regional readers an authentic glimpse into the continent’s shared identity, according to a press release.

The publication explores Unesco heritage sites, tourism attractions both ancient and modern, Asia’s best-kept secrets and unique cultural treasures.

Current ANN Chairperson and Malaysia’s Star Media Group Chief Content Officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng said the e-book celebrated Asia’s unique ability to rapidly modernise, while deeply honouring its roots.

“Asia is living proof of heritage and legacy living on and evolving,” Ng said, adding that the region seamlessly blends ancient legacies with ultra-modern facets and the fastest technology adoption in the world.

“Ng highlighted that the e-book’s focus on Asia’s winning factors that foster global togetherness, and adds that the region has inherited a priceless form of heritage defined by endurance and survival — two traits that she views as the most accurate descriptions of the Asian experience,” the press release said.

The e-book also addresses the long-standing challenge of relying on Western perspectives to tell Asian stories.

Former ANN chairman Mahfuz Anam, editor-in-chief and publisher of Bangladesh’s The Daily Star, was quoted as saying that the network was founded 27 years ago to correct this imbalance, calling the new e-book an integral part of a “journey of rediscovery”.