Fujian provincial government released the fourth batch of 74 intangible cultural heritage (ICH) items based on examination, research and public review under the Intangible Cultural Heritage Law of the People's Republic of China and the Regulations on the Protection of Fujian Folk and Traditional Culture. Zhangzhou city newly contributed 8 ICH items (including 2 extensional projects) to the four batch. To date, Zhangzhou provincial ICH projects amount to 51.

The 8 ICH projects are Zhangzhou taizuquan and qinglong disposition, silk figure (Zhaoan), porcelain carving art (Zhaoan), Zhangzhou narcissus carving art, Changtai ginger production techniques, folk custom of Shanchong racing big to wish for a harvest year, riddles written on lanterns (Zhangzhou) and the Mazu belief and customs (Zhangzhou). 

In addition, the application and recommendation for the third batch of provincial ICH representative inheritors have kicked off. The referrals must be listed in the ICH projects of the first batch to the fourth batch and be announced as representative inheritors of municipal ICH projects by the local government. Applicants and referral could fill the inheritor recommending form on Fujian ICH website. The deadline for submitting application materials to municipal ICH protection center is May 15, 2012. [Chinese version is available on Minnan Daily]

(Source: IPR in China)