As a pioneering initiative to celebrate and preserve the rich heritage of common Chinese surnames across the Taiwan Straits, the Cross-Straits Surname Culture Digital Museum marks a momentous development in Pingtan Comprehensive Pilot Zone, the mainland's closest point to the island of Taiwan. The inaugural phase of this innovative project, jointly undertaken by the Xiamen University Pingtan Research Institute and the Fujian Province Kai Min Surname Culture Research Institute, has now concluded. The upcoming second phase, focused on advancing digitalization efforts, is slated for completion by the end of this October.

The museum is designed to provide a comprehensive platform for Taiwan compatriots to trace their roots. It offers efficient and detailed information on genealogies, local histories, clan associations, and immigrant groups, facilitating a deeper understanding of their ancestry.

"The museum aims to create a powerful service platform for Taiwan compatriots to find their roots and connect with their heritage," said a spokesperson from the Xiamen University Pingtan Research Institute.

The museum features a variety of exhibits showcasing the profound vibrancy of surname culture through immersive and high-tech displays. These include sections on surname ancestors, the Kaizhang surname chronicles, surname maps, origins and developments, Chinese family trees, surname totems, and creative AI and metaverse applications.

A standout feature is the surname cultural and creative section, displaying an extensive collection of white porcelain art pieces representing hundreds of Chinese family names. This impressive collection, created by young ceramic artist Peng Chengxiong from Dehua, Fujian, includes over 400 cultural and creative items developed over ten years. His porcelain sculptures transform two-dimensional lines and structures into stunning three-dimensional forms.

The genealogy exhibition hall presents family genealogies from both sides of the Taiwan Straits, reflecting the shared roots, cultural similarities, and blood ties between the people of Taiwan and the mainland. These genealogies, also known as clan records or ancestral records, are a crucial part of surname culture and serve as a unique cultural heritage of the Chinese nation.

The Cross-Straits Surname Culture Digital Museum is poised to become a vital platform for cultural exchange with Taiwan. It aims to play a significant role in promoting traditional Chinese culture, fostering a shared cultural identity among Taiwan compatriots, and strengthening the emotional connections between people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits.