Wikimedia Community User Group Malaysia/Reports/Wikimania 2023/WAqil (WMYS)

Things I learned at the conference

Reflecting on my recent conference experience, I am excited to share the profound insights and transformative lessons I've gained. Each session brought unique perspectives and practical wisdom, enriching my understanding of Wikimedia and its global community.

Digitizing Cultural Heritage:The session on "Unlocking Cultural Treasures" was a revelation in making cultural heritage preservation accessible. I learned that with the right approach, even a mobile phone can become a tool for digitizing valuable collections. This democratizes the process, allowing anyone to contribute to preserving our shared cultural knowledge. It's not about the technology; it's about the passion and dedication behind it.
Personalized Volunteer Engagement:The "Volunteer Retention Strategies" clinic emphasized the importance of personalization in volunteer engagement. I discovered that understanding the unique motivations and strengths of volunteers is key to retaining their commitment. It's not just about recruiting; it's about creating a sense of belonging and purpose. The clinic taught me that every volunteer has a story to tell, and it's our role to listen and support them on their Wikimedia journey.
Multilingualism and Machine Translation:The "Bridging Language Barriers" session unveiled the evolving landscape of multilingual content on Wikipedia. I learned that improved machine translation can connect diverse language communities, but it's not a panacea. We must tread carefully to ensure quality and cultural sensitivity. This session raised profound questions about the role of humans in overseeing machine-generated content, preserving linguistic diversity, and respecting cultural nuances.
The Power of Global Initiatives:Throughout the conference, I was inspired by the global Wikimedia projects presented. Learning about the enriching of content in regional languages underscored the Wikimedia Movement's inclusivity. These initiatives aren't just about content creation; they're about empowerment and representation. I realized that supporting and amplifying these projects is crucial to making knowledge truly accessible to all.
Collaboration and Community Building:The conference highlighted the power of collaboration within the Wikimedia community. Every session demonstrated the strength of individuals coming together with a shared passion for open knowledge. I learned that building and nurturing these communities is essential. It's about fostering a sense of unity, trust, and collective purpose. Together, we can achieve more than we can alone.
The Ongoing Journey:Above all, this conference taught me that the journey of learning and contribution is ongoing. It's not about reaching a destination; it's about the continuous exploration of open knowledge, cultural preservation, and the Wikimedia mission. I realized that my role doesn't end with the conference; it's just the beginning. I'm now equipped with new insights and a sense of purpose to actively contribute to the Wikimedia community and the broader goal of making knowledge accessible to everyone, everywhere.

This conference has been a profound journey, equipping me with the skills and insights to contribute meaningfully to Wikimedia projects. I am excited to apply these learnings and collaborate with the local and global Wikimedia community to promote open knowledge and cultural preservation.

Things the participant contributed or participated in the conference

During my time there, a significant portion of my responsibilities involved overseeing the Malaysian delegates, which limited my ability to actively engage in the conference due to the relatively small number of attendees requiring management.

14 August

I departed for Singapore on August 14th to attend to various logistical matters, such as coordinating hotel accommodations for the participants, arranging catering for the activity scheduled for August 15th, and ensuring timely transportation for participants to their lodging and the conference venue the following day.

15 August

On that particular day, the majority of my time were dedicated to overseeing the Malaysian delegation, which had journeyed to Singapore. Unfortunately, we encountered delays due to sluggish hotel management, resulting in a prolonged wait. To make the best of the situation, I directed them to the conference venue for participant registration and lunch. Later that evening, I coordinated the catering for all Malaysian participants, fostering a sense of camaraderie and facilitating interactions at a food court near The Esplanade, where we gathered to dine and socialize.

16 August

Portable Museum and low-cost digitization with mobile phones for GLAM collections

by Carolina Matos, Open Knowledge Foundation

I received comprehensive orientation on the program's goals, methodologies, and expected outcomes. This included an overview of the collaboration between the Goethe-Institut São Paulo, Instituto Moreira Salles, and Wiki Movimento Brasil. These sessions equipped me with the necessary skills to work with reasonably accessible equipment and follow detailed instructions provided in the Portable Museum Manual. "The Portable Museum Project – Pocket Edition" has been a transformative experience. It has allowed me to acquire valuable skills in digitizing collection data and to actively contribute to the preservation and dissemination of cultural knowledge. This project has not only enriched my understanding of our cultural heritage but has also empowered me to be part of a global movement to make cultural information more accessible and democratic.

How not to lose a volunteer after the first edit: volunteer retention strategies

by LetsConnect Working group, Leadership Development Working Group

One of the central takeaways from this clinic session is the importance of implementing an effective volunteer retention strategy. Matching new contributors with relevant Wikimedia activities emerged as a crucial aspect of retaining their engagement. By understanding the specific interests and motivations of volunteers, we can strategically guide them towards projects and tasks that align with their passions and capacities. This personalized approach can significantly increase the likelihood of continued participation beyond the initial edit.

Another key learning point centered on the ability to articulate the interests, motivations, and capacities of new contributors. We explored various methods to engage with newcomers, actively listen to their aspirations, and identify their unique strengths. This understanding not only enhances the volunteer experience but also fosters a sense of belonging within the Wikimedia community.

The clinic emphasized the importance of a well-structured onboarding process for new contributors. We learned to identify the necessary steps and resources required to facilitate a smooth transition for newcomers. Providing clear guidance, mentorship, and a welcoming environment during the onboarding phase can significantly impact the retention of volunteers.

The clinic session on volunteer retention strategies has equipped me with valuable knowledge and practical skills. I now possess the tools to match new contributors with relevant Wikimedia activities, understand their motivations and capacities, and implement effective onboarding procedures. These insights are pivotal for creating a vibrant and engaged Wikimedia community. Moving forward, I am committed to applying the principles learned during this clinic to actively contribute to volunteer retention within the Wikimedia projects. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for newcomers and aligning their interests with meaningful opportunities, we can ensure the sustained growth and success of Wikimedia initiatives. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this clinic session, and I look forward to making a positive impact within the Wikimedia community by implementing these valuable volunteer retention strategies.

17 August

What we do to reach out GLAM institutions in Indonesia

by Hardiansyah

Participating in the program submission and presentation by GLAM Wikimedia Indonesia has provided valuable insights into the challenges and strategies associated with reaching out to GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums) institutions in Indonesia. Despite the hurdles presented by a predominantly non-digital landscape, limited database infrastructure, copyright misconceptions, and concerns about data security, it is evident that GLAM Wikimedia Indonesia is committed to driving positive change.

The presentation highlighted the necessity of persistence and adaptability when engaging with GLAM institutions in Indonesia. While the initial barriers may be formidable, the commitment to bringing these institutions into the digital and open-access realm is unwavering. Understanding that many GLAM institutions may lack knowledge about copyright and free licenses, the session emphasized the importance of educational advocacy. Providing clarity on legal aspects and benefits of open access can be a pivotal step in fostering collaboration. The session proposed a collaborative approach that involves sharing experiences and lessons learned among GLAM practitioners. This approach not only facilitates mutual learning but also contributes to the improvement of GLAM Wikimedia Indonesia's outreach efforts.

The presentation format, which includes both a brief presentation and an extended discussion, encourages open dialogue and the sharing of ideas among participants. This collaborative exchange of insights ensures a more effective approach in future outreach endeavors. GLAM Wikimedia Indonesia's presentation has underscored the importance of perseverance, education, collaboration, and open dialogue when dealing with the unique challenges faced in engaging with GLAM institutions in Indonesia. It is evident that their commitment to the Open GLAM movement is unwavering, and their willingness to adapt and learn from others is a promising sign for the future of cultural heritage preservation and accessibility in the region. This presentation serves as an inspiring example of how dedication and a collaborative spirit can drive positive change within challenging contexts.

[Citation needed (again)] - make reusing references easier

by Lena Meintrup, Johanna Strodt (WMDE)

Big ideas are small ideas

by Peter Pelberg, Nicolas Ayoub

From this clinic session, I have learned the critical importance of identifying and fostering generative ideas within the Wikimedia Movement. To sustain and remain relevant, the Movement must evolve its approach to connect with individuals who may not yet be aware of Wikimedia projects.

The session highlighted the significance of identifying common traits among MediaWiki software features introduced over the past two decades that have led to innovative ways for new individuals to engage with and contribute to Wikimedia projects. Understanding these commonalities can help in recognizing and nurturing generative ideas.

To stay dynamic and relevant, the Wikimedia Movement must redefine its self-perception. It should see itself as a platform capable of connecting projects with people who are unaware of their existence, thereby expanding its reach and impact.

The session also emphasized the need for a shared framework or language to identify latent generative ideas within the Wikimedia ecosystem. This framework can serve as a guide for recognizing and nurturing innovative concepts that have the potential to drive positive change.

A significant takeaway is the importance of collaboration and networking within the Movement. Participants are encouraged to connect with like-minded individuals across the Movement who are motivated and equipped to experiment with small, high-potential ideas. These connections foster collective efforts to drive innovation and change.

Relaunch of Healthcare Translation

by James Heilman

Wiki Project Med has played a crucial role in facilitating the translation of a substantial amount of medical text, totaling millions of words. This demonstrates the organization's dedication to making healthcare information more accessible to a global audience.

n 2021, Wiki Project Med initiated a relaunch of its translation efforts. This involved the development of a new dashboard and the establishment of partnerships with institutions like the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and ProZ. These efforts have had a tangible impact on the creation of over 1,000 new healthcare articles, showcasing the effectiveness of their initiatives.

WikiCite and Scholia for medicine and beyond

by Lane Rasberry

18 August

The whole GLAM package: a workflow for turning the richness of GLAM knowledge and collections into great wiki contribution

by Heidi Meudt

From this clinic session, I have learned several valuable insights: The session introduces a workflow developed by New Zealand's Te Papa national museum that enables Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums (GLAM) to make cohesive and structured contributions to Wikimedia projects, including Wikipedia, Wikidata, and Wikimedia Commons. This workflow provides a systematic approach to engaging with Wikimedia platforms.

The Te Papa workflow emphasizes the importance of scoping projects effectively. It addresses the common challenge of getting started with contributions as a GLAM organization by providing a framework that is both nicely scoped and worthwhile. This approach makes it more manageable for GLAMs to initiate and execute projects.

The session underscores the value of collaboration within a GLAM organization. It demonstrates how a core team of enthusiastic GLAM staff can combine their individual areas of expertise to create a productive and enjoyable collaborative environment. This collaborative effort contributes to the successful execution of Wikimedia projects.

Bridge the Digital Language Divide: Can Machine Translation Narrow Knowledge Gap?

by Kai Zhu

From this clinic session description, I have learned that the partnership between Wikipedia and Google Translate offers a unique opportunity to investigate the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine translation on narrowing the knowledge gap within social-technical systems like Wikipedia. The session explores how improved machine translation services can enhance knowledge transfer between different languages on Wikipedia. It aims to understand whether this technology primarily facilitates knowledge flow from major language editions, such as English and French, or if it supports a bidirectional exchange of information between various language editions. This investigation sheds light on the dynamics of cross-lingual knowledge sharing.

It delves into the changing roles of human editors within the Wikipedia content production process when machine translation tools, like Google Translate, provide high-quality initial translations. This examination focuses on how human editors adapt and collaborate with machine intelligence, emphasizing the evolving dynamics of human-machine partnerships.

Many Wikipedia language editions contain locally-relevant and culture-specific articles. The session addresses whether machine translation aids in the dissemination of this local content to a wider audience. This aspect explores how AI-driven translation impacts the accessibility and dissemination of culturally specific knowledge.

Cultural heritage and the Wikimedia movement in times of crisis

by Giovanna Fontenelle (WMF)

The session underscores the importance of preserving irreplaceable pieces of knowledge, which are often at risk of being lost due to various factors such as political motivations, natural disasters, neglect, or disinterest. It highlights that Wikimedia projects can play a crucial role in safeguarding heritage materials, including documents, artworks, and monuments, before, during, or after moments of crisis. To effectively safeguard cultural heritage materials, it is essential for countries to have copyright laws that not only permit digitization and documentation but also allow for the sharing of reproductions. This includes the importance of policies such as Freedom of Panorama and Open License guidelines. Copyright reforms are identified as a critical aspect of enabling these activities.

The session addresses several key focus areas, including GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums) and heritage materials, Wikimedia Commons, advocacy efforts, and copyright considerations. These areas collectively contribute to the broader goal of knowledge preservation and accessibility.

Building an Initiative for a UNESCO Recommendation on Open Culture

by Brigitte Vézina, Jocelyn Miyara, Connor Benedict, Creative Commons

Creative Commons (CC) has played a vital role in promoting the open sharing of information, ideas, and cultural artifacts for the past 20 years. This legacy serves as the foundation for CC's Open Culture Program, which aims to facilitate better sharing of cultural heritage. CC's efforts are aligned with the goal of building a more equitable, accessible, and innovative world. In September 2022, UNESCO Member States recognized culture as a global public good for the first time. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of preserving, accessing, sharing, and reusing cultural heritage for the well-being of societies and sustainable development.

Despite the recognition of culture as a global public good, inadequate, nonexistent, or unclear public policies, particularly related to copyright laws, often create unnecessary barriers to accessing and enjoying cultural heritage. These barriers hinder the potential for equitable and respectful sharing of cultural heritage in the digital age.

The session discussed on the necessity of realizing open culture as a global public good. It brought together experts to exchange perspectives, identify common principles, and strategize for policy actions that facilitate better sharing of cultural heritage. Participants explored the historical context of open culture, assessed current needs, and outlined a vision for the future of open culture.

Wikispecies and Wikidata: Where next?

by Andy Mabbett

There has been increased collaboration and integration between Wikispecies and Wikidata. This integration includes the use of Wikidata for biographies of taxonomists and the migration of bibliographic metadata from Wikispecies to Wikidata. However, there are still instances where data is duplicated, and opportunities exist for better synchronization.

Despite the integration efforts, taxon data within Wikispecies is not well-linked, and variations in taxonomic interpretations exist, leading to discrepancies among various Wikimedia projects, Wikipedias, and Wikimedia Commons. External sites that require taxonomic data tend to rely on Wikidata rather than Wikispecies.

The session raises questions about the significance of these challenges and discrepancies. It prompts consideration of whether these issues matter and, if so, what actions can be taken to address them. The session seeks to explore how to foster better relationships between projects and their volunteer communities, reduce the workload for volunteers, and provide improved services by leveraging tools that link projects.

The session acknowledges the resistance within the Wikispecies community to certain aspects of integration with Wikidata. It raises questions about whether the interface or community norms of Wikidata might be off-putting to taxonomists and how to accommodate their needs effectively.

19 August

Wikipustaka, Wikipabukon, and Wikisumber - Four Wikisource Competitions and Their Results

by Rachmat, Benny

The session aims to highlight the achievements of these four competitions and share insights on how other Wikimedia communities can replicate similar initiatives. It will provide a brief history of Wikisource competitions in Indonesia dating back to 2012 and discuss the communities involved, the specific projects undertaken (with some created in 2021), and the outcomes of these competitions.

In summary, this clinic session showcases the successful Wikisource competitions organized by various Indonesian communities and offers valuable insights for other communities interested in conducting similar initiatives. It demonstrates the potential for enriching Wikisource content in regional languages and encourages knowledge sharing and collaboration among Wikimedia communities.

Resources for Incubator projects

by Benny

The session speaker has been actively involved in several Indonesian local language projects, such as Gorontalo Wikipedia, Minangkabau Wiktionary, Nias Wiktionary, Javanese Wikisource, and Gorontalo Wiktionary. This experience has highlighted the need for a centralized resource center to support communities interested in starting new Wikimedia projects, particularly those that may be the first of their kind within their communities.

The speaker envisions a central hub where individuals and communities can access guidance on starting new Wikimedia projects. This resource center would provide information on various aspects, including setting up the project's main page, recommended templates and modules, administrative tasks, and early content ideas to populate the project. It may also offer guidance on training the initial batch of administrators for these projects.

In summary, this clinic session underscores the rapid growth of Wikimedia projects in linguistically diverse Indonesia and the need for a centralized resource center to support communities in launching new projects. It highlights the importance of providing guidance, templates, and resources to help these projects get started effectively and sustainably.

How do I create a community to support small Wikipedias?

by J. Patrick Fischer

The session anticipates a discussion among participants to generate valuable insights and output. This collaborative dialogue is expected to contribute to the development and implementation of strategies for the (re)activation of Tetum Wikipedia and the enhancement of small Wikipedia projects in the region.

In summary, this clinic session revolves around supporting Tetum Wikipedia in East Timor, fostering collaboration among Southeast Asian Wikipedians, and sharing ideas and experiences that could benefit other Wikimedia communities. It emphasizes the importance of community capacity building and content improvement within smaller Wikipedia projects.

Engaging with Youth

by Youngjin Ko

Wikimedia Korea is actively involved in supporting and facilitating youth engagement within the Korean Wikipedia community. The session provide insights into the initiatives and efforts undertaken by Wikimedia Korea to encourage and empower young contributors.

In summary, this clinic session focuses on youth engagement within the Korean Wikipedia community, with an emphasis on sharing experiences and strategies. It highlights the importance of involving young contributors and aims to facilitate a cross-community exchange of knowledge and insights related to engaging with youth contributors.

WikiSihat and WHO

by Wafiq Aqil and Taufik Rosman

This session was dedicated to our presentation, during which my colleague Taufik and I provided an overview of the program we have undertaken in collaboration with WHO. Our initiative involves the creation of Wikipedia articles focusing on health topics to address the disparity in medical knowledge on the Malay Wikipedia. Additionally, I seized the opportunity to discuss the WikiProjek Perubatan, outlining both the local initiatives we have already implemented and those we have planned for the future.

Plans after the conference (from what was learned or contributed in the conference)

I am excited to outline my plan for implementation on what I had gained during the GLAM-related sessions;
- I will continue to enhance my knowledge of digitizing collection data using mobile phones. This includes mastering the techniques outlined in the Portable Museum Manual.
- I will actively seek out collaboration opportunities with local GLAM institutions in my region. By leveraging the skills and equipment acquired, I aim to engage with these institutions to support their digitization efforts.
- To contribute to the preservation and dissemination of cultural knowledge, I plan to organize workshops or training sessions for interested GLAM institutions. Sharing the techniques and best practices I've learned will empower others to embark on similar initiatives.
- I will actively participate in relevant forums, online communities, and discussions related to the Open GLAM movement. Engaging with like-minded individuals and organizations will further enrich my understanding and contribute to the broader global effort to democratize cultural information.
- In my local and regional context, I will advocate for the importance of open access to cultural heritage and the benefits of digitization. I will work to raise awareness among GLAM institutions and policymakers about the transformative impact of making cultural information more accessible and democratic.
- Throughout the implementation process, I will continuously evaluate the effectiveness of our efforts and seek ways to improve our approach. This includes gathering feedback from GLAM institutions and adapting our strategies accordingly.

Enhance the organizational governance structure within Wikimedia Malaysia to foster greater efficiency and a more streamlined workflow
- Structural Optimization: Evaluate and refine the existing organizational structure of Wikimedia Malaysia to ensure that it is aligned with the organization's goals and objectives. This involves reviewing roles and responsibilities, leadership positions, and decision-making processes; Consider the establishment of specialized committees or working groups dedicated to key areas of focus, such as content creation, community engagement, outreach, and technology development. These committees can facilitate a more targeted approach to Wikimedia projects; Implement clear reporting lines and communication channels to streamline information flow within the organization. This reduces redundancy, minimizes bottlenecks, and ensures that decisions are made efficiently.
- Policies and Procedures: Develop and document policies and procedures that govern various aspects of Wikimedia Malaysia's operations. This includes guidelines for project management, volunteer engagement, financial management, and data governance; Define transparent and accountable decision-making processes, emphasizing consensus-building and community involvement in major decisions. Clearly outline how volunteers and members can contribute to shaping the organization's direction; Ensure that Wikimedia Malaysia adheres to Wikimedia Foundation's global policies and standards while adapting them to the specific needs and context of the local community.
- Capacity Building: Invest in capacity building initiatives to equip Wikimedia Malaysia's members, volunteers, and leadership with the skills and knowledge necessary for effective governance. This may involve training sessions, workshops, or mentorship programs; Encourage a culture of continuous improvement by fostering a learning environment within the organization. Encourage members to share best practices and innovative ideas to enhance efficiency; Promote transparency and accountability by regularly reporting on key governance decisions, financial matters, and project progress to the Wikimedia Malaysia community and stakeholders.

Do a strategy planning for the local Wikimedia community and projects
- Creating a strategy plan for the local Wikimedia community and its associated projects is a crucial step in ensuring the effective development, growth, and sustainability of Wikimedia initiatives at the regional or local level.
- Develop specific action plans for each strategic priority. Outline the steps, resources, and timelines required to achieve the defined objectives. Assign responsibilities to individuals or teams within the community.
- Develop a communication plan to engage with the wider community, share updates on progress, and gather feedback. Effective communication ensures transparency and encourages community participation.
- A well-defined strategy plan provides a roadmap for the local Wikimedia community, helping it to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and work collectively toward its goals. It ensures that resources are utilized efficiently, projects are aligned with the community's mission, and stakeholders remain engaged and motivated. Ultimately, a strategic plan empowers the local Wikimedia community to make a meaningful impact in preserving and disseminating knowledge and culture within their region.
Plan and host the ESEAP (East, Southeast Asia, and Pacific) Conference in Malaysia as a future initiative to foster regional collaboration and knowledge sharing in the Wikimedia community.
Develop training materials and workshops to equip new contributors with the skills needed for effective participation. Also, encourage continuous learning and skill development by offering opportunities for further education within Wikimedia projects.
Organize events and activities that promote community building among new and existing contributors.
- These initiatives serve as opportunities for members to connect, collaborate, and build meaningful relationships within the Wikimedia community. Such events can take various forms, including workshops, edit-a-thons, meetups, conferences, and social gatherings. By bringing contributors together, these activities create a sense of belonging, encourage knowledge sharing, and enhance collaboration. They also provide a platform for mentoring and peer support, facilitating the integration of newcomers and encouraging long-term engagement. Ultimately, community-building events strengthen the bonds among Wikimedia contributors, enrich the collective experience, and contribute to the success and sustainability of Wikimedia projects.

By actively implementing these strategies, I aim to enhance volunteer retention within the Wikimedia community. My commitment is to create a vibrant and engaged community where contributors feel valued, supported, and motivated to continue their active participation. This approach aligns with the clinic's teachings and will contribute to the sustained growth and success of Wikimedia initiatives.

Comments/ suggestions about the conference

Diverse Global Representation:It was heartening to see the focus on global Wikimedia projects during this conference. However, I believe there is an opportunity to further amplify voices from underrepresented regions. Encouraging more participation from these areas and exploring ways to overcome barriers to access could lead to a richer and more inclusive global Wikimedia community.
Practical Workshops:While the sessions were insightful, practical workshops that allow participants to dive deeper into specific skills or tools would be valuable. Hands-on experiences can empower attendees to immediately apply what they've learned and make a tangible impact within their communities.

Gallery

Malaysian Delegations on Day 4 at Wikimania 2023
I present our group key points during discussion session in ESEAP Summit 2023
Discussion with UNESCO