Page 1090 - Proceedings Collega2023

The Use of GIS for Natural and Cultural Heritage Preservation

The use of GIS) has become increasingly important in the field of natural and cultural heritage
preservation. Photogrammetry in GIS has been widely used as a scientific method for documenting cultural
heritage sites (Doğan & Yakar, 2018). It allows for the digital documentation of cultural heritage, providing
a robust and scientific approach to studying and preserving these sites (Doğan & Yakar, 2018). One of the
dominant applications of GIS in cultural heritage is the inventory and cataloguing of archaeological and
architectural heritage (Lopes, 2018). GIS databases often integrate comprehensive and detailed
documentation data on the physical characteristics of heritage properties, including text descriptions,
drawings, photographs, and 3D scanned or virtual models (He et al., 2015). The versatility of GIS platforms,
such as ArcMap and ArcGIS Storymaps make them ideal for the representation and analysis of geometries
oriented in space at any scale, making them suitable for the management of cultural heritage knowledge
(Coli et al., 2021). GIS can be used to analyse the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of
cultural heritage sites, providing a scientific basis for their protection and development (Li et al., 2022). To
give a thorough perspective of cultural assets, GIS enables the integration of multiple data sources, such
as 3D digital models, linked open data, historical, and archaeological layers (Nishanbaev et al., 2021;
Valjarevi et al., 2019). By studying the spatial patterns and historical changes of cultural landscapes,
planners can gain a better understanding of the forces that have shaped cities and landscapes, informing
future interventions (Hein & Mil, 2020).

Synergy Between Geospatial Mapping and Socio-Spatial Mapping
An emerging trend in landscape resource and heritage preservation research in Malaysia is the
synergy between geospatial and socio-spatial mapping. This integrative approach recognises that
landscapes are multidimensional and that holistic conservation strategies must consider both the physical
and cultural aspects. They can combine geospatial data, such as land cover and topography, with socio-
spatial data, such as community narratives and historical records, to identify culturally significant sites and
vulnerable areas. This synergy has the potential to revolutionise preservation strategies in Malaysia. By
overlaying geospatial and socio-spatial maps, researchers and policymakers can pinpoint areas where
physical changes intersect with cultural significance, enabling the development of tailored preservation
plans that respect the heritage and traditions of local communities.

Methodology

The methodology presented in this paper is a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach,
integrating geospatial technology with socio-spatial data analysis. The primary goal of this research is to
develop a framework that combines geospatial and socio-spatial mapping techniques for optimising land
resource planning and safeguarding cultural heritage sites. The extensive geospatial data collection is
conducted, including remote sensing data, satellite imagery, digital elevation models, and geospatial
databases containing information on land use, land cover, and terrain characteristics. This forms the
foundation of the geospatial analysis. Additionally, socio-spatial data is gathered through surveys,
interviews, and archival research, focusing on the cultural, historical, and social aspects of the study area.

International Conference on Local Wisdom of the Malay Archipelago (COLLEGA 2023) Page 1077