In Xizang, there exists a wide variety of ethnic handicrafts and ancient techniques such as Thangka painting, traditional fabric, and carving and sculpture. The ability of these invaluable traditional skills to adapt to contemporary times is closely linked to the inheritance and development of outstanding traditional Chinese culture.

Menchong Norbu Sidar, a member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), also a representative inheritor of the national intangible cultural heritage associated with the Mansar School of Thangka painting, is a master in Chinese arts and crafts with a high reputation. For over 40 years, he has dedicated himself to the preservation and transmission of Thangka art, successfully nurturing more than 400 high-level talents in Thangka painting.

During the “two sessions” in 2025, he provided recommendations for the development of a high-level professional talent team in ethnic handicrafts. He emphasized that it is important to enhance the integration of tradition and modernity among practitioners of ethnic crafts by establishing relevant arts and crafts programs in colleges and universities, tailored to local conditions. This approach would create favorable circumstances for nurturing interdisciplinary talents dedicated to the preservation of intangible cultural heritage.

During the performance of his duties, he conducted in-depth market surveys within colleges and universities as well as the ethnic handicraft industry. He recognized that these institutions serve as crucial platforms for foundational research and the cultivation of innovative talent. By engaging in constructive explorations related to the disciplinary framework, academic programs, and course development pertinent to ethnic handicrafts, industry insiders can effectively enhance the high-level professional training of talents in this field.

“As a CPPCC member, having been re-elected twice, I hold new expectations for the inheritance and development of outstanding traditional Chinese culture considering each annual session of the National People’s Congress and the CPPCC. I will begin by addressing issues within my area, bringing forth both the challenges I have identified and my reflections. I am committed to actively fulfilling my duties and responsibilities while responding to the concerns of people,” said Menchong Norbu Sidar.