The world of cultural preservation mourns the loss of Professor Zhou Weimin, a legendary scholar of Hainan’s ancient maritime heritage, who passed away on May 20 at age 91. 🕊️ Known as the guardian of ‘Genglubu’—centuries-old navigation charts used by Hainan fishermen—Zhou dedicated over 30 years to decoding these maritime “treasure maps” that detail islands, reefs, and routes across the South China Sea.
His seminal work, documenting 24 versions of Genglubu, became a cornerstone for understanding China’s historical ties to the region. 🌏 Earlier this year, Zhou shared his expertise in CGTN’s documentary Sovereignty at Stake, blending history with modern relevance. 💡 “These charts aren’t just maps—they’re a bridge between past and present,” he once said.
Zhou’s legacy lives on as a testament to the power of cultural preservation in an era of rapid change. 📚🌊 #HistoryInMotion
