Bridging Global Standards and Local Contexts: A Hybrid Metadata Framework for ASEAN GLAM Institutions

Abstract

This study addresses the persistent challenges of metadata interoperability and cultural inclusivity within Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums (GLAM) institutions in the ASEAN region. It proposes a hybrid metadata framework that integrates international standards—such as Dublin Core, CIDOC-CRM, and EAD—with culturally responsive elements including indigenous protocols, multilingual support, and post-custodial metadata practices. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combined thematic analysis of existing metadata practices with case studies on Indonesian and Thai heritage collections. The resulting framework, implemented in the ASEAN GLAM Repositories prototype system, features modular metadata categories and technologies such as OAI-PMH, JSON API, and blockchain-based provenance tracking. Evaluation results indicate the framework preserves 98% metadata integrity, supports 47 minority languages across six scripts, and significantly enhances cross-institutional interoperability and user engagement. The findings demonstrate that ethical, context-aware metadata design is both feasible and impactful for digital heritage management. This study contributes a scalable model for inclusive and sustainable metadata practices, with broad applicability for global GLAM environments seeking to balance technical rigor with cultural sensitivity.