DIGITIZATION AND REVITALIZATION OF THE NOM SCRIPT LITERARY HERITAGE OF THE KINH PEOPLE IN GUANGXI PROVINCE, CHINA

Abstract

This study examines the current state of preservation of the Nom script, a unique writing system historically used by the Kinh people in Guangxi province, China and proposes digital technology-based solutions for its revitalization. Employing a mixed-methods approach including field surveys, in-depth interviews, and policy analysis, the research gathered data from three Kinh villages: Wanwei, Shanxin, and Wutou. Findings reveal that only 12% of households retain Nom manuscripts (mainly ritual texts and folk poetry), 8% of elders over 65 are proficient in reading/writing Nom, and 0% of youth under 30 possess knowledge of the script. The main causes include a lack of formal education, pressures of Sinicization, and poor document preservation conditions. The study proposes a multilingual digitization model integrating optical character recognition technology and cross-border collaboration with Vietnam to establish an open-access database. It also calls for policy reform to prioritize funding for minority language preservation. These findings contribute significantly to cultural diversity preservation and promote international scientific cooperation in the era of globalization.