Thirteen Sites Museum Podcast Features Experts Discussing Bali's Culture in Taiwanese Hokkien

The Thirteen Sites Museum in New Taipei City has unveiled a new season of its podcast, "Archaeology Loves Old Stories," this time focusing on the rich cultural tapestry of Bali District. Titled "Pat-lí pat-lí Bali．Ba Ni," the season features six distinguished guests sharing their insights into Bali's past and present, all delivered in Taiwanese Hokkien.

Hosted by acclaimed writer Tang Mo, the 12-episode series invites listeners on an auditory journey through Bali's landscapes, old settlements, and evolving ecology. The podcast's name, "Ba Ni," is a homophone for the Taiwanese Hokkien word for "to know" or "to understand," emphasizing the program's goal of fostering a deeper connection with the region through its native language. Since its inception in 2021, the podcast has resonated strongly with families and communities who speak the language.

This season, supported by the Ministry of Culture's "National Language Development Program," introduces an "In-depth Interview" segment. Local scholars and cultural practitioners will engage in conversations spanning from prehistoric times to the contemporary era, exploring Bali's history, archaeology, industries, and natural environment. The use of Taiwanese Hokkien throughout the episodes aims to elevate the language beyond mere communication, positioning it as a vital medium for carrying cultural memories and preserving local wisdom.

Notable guests include Zhou Zheng-yi, a hardware store owner with deep knowledge of local fieldwork, who will discuss Bali's development history through the lens of changes in the Tamsui River estuary's geography. Su Qiu-jin, an award-winning environmental educator and school administrator, will shed light on the lesser-known "graveyard culture" and the rise and fall of the stone-cutting industry in Bali. Other guests include author Zheng Shun-cong, ecological expert Zhou Jun-ting, National Taiwan Museum researcher Lin Yi-hong, and an archaeological site supervisor, each contributing to a multifaceted and warm portrayal of Bali's human landscape.