Sungai Batu Archaeological Complex (SBAC) in Kedah, Malaysia, as a sustainable heritage tourism product

Abstract Archaeological research at the Sungai Batu Archaeological Complex (SBAC) has revealed evidence of iron smelting workshops, river jetties, port management buildings, and ritual and Buddhist sites across an area of 4 km 2 . These features were developed into a heritage tourism product in the Kuala Muda district. To support heritage tourism, the data collected through field studies were processed into a 3-dimensional form via CorelDraw X7 (64-bit) and 3ds Max software. The Living Culture Gallery at the SBAC develops heritage tourism by applying digital technology such as VR, AR, hologram fans, and QR codes. Therefore, it directly contributes to the promotion of tourist sites and ensures their sustainability.