Strengthening Heritage Connections: The Dutch Trading Post Heritage Network 2024

The Dutch Trading Post Heritage Network (DTPHN) unites a vibrant array of institutions dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). With members spanning Asia, Africa, and the Netherlands, DTPHN serves as a vital platform for connecting these regions through their shared historical narratives. Also it encompasses various aspects of Dutch maritime trade, colonial history, and economic development, especially during the Golden Age in the 17th century. The network consists of the 13 institutions and typically involves collaboration between museums, research institutions, and heritage organizations, aiming to share knowledge, resources, and exhibitions related to Dutch trade routes, the influence of the Dutch East India Company, and the cultural exchanges that occurred through trade. This year’s event was graciously hosted by the Galle Heritage Foundation, representing Sri Lanka, the primary aim of the network meeting of this year (2024) is to foster knowledge sharing and collaborative research on shared cultural heritage, as well as to discuss and coordinate future historical initiatives. Additionally, the network enhances cultural, educational, and economic exchanges, reinforcing the significance of our intertwined histories and collective legacies.

The 9th International Network Meeting and symposium of the Dutch Trading Post Heritage Network was successfully held in Galle, Sri Lanka September 30th to October 4th. International participants who arrived early were picked up from their hotels and transfer to Galle. Registration was organized at the Heritage Hotel, Galle Fort, where all the international participants were formally registered. The Inauguration ceremony on September 30th was held in Grand way, with the Dutch ambassador representing the Netherlands, along with representatives from partner and sponsor institutions. On October 1st, the symposium took place at the Raddison Blu Hotel, followed by a guided tour of Galle fort and a formal dinner at la Grand Hotel. The network meeting on October 2nd, hosted at the Heritage Hotel, welcomed two new members to the network, with Japan confirm as the host for the next meeting. In the evening, participants explode Matara Fort and Star Fort. On the final day, October 3rd, the group visited Key heritage sites, including the national museum, national archives, Colombo fort, and port. The program concluded with a farewell dinner at the Grand Oriental hotel, Colombo. Participants scheduled for flights were dropped off at the airport, marking the end of a successful and memorable event.