Virtual Booth

Kirei Cultural Village is an Interactive and Immersive Cultural Learning Platform developed to preserve and promote Sabah’s rich cultural heritage through innovative digital technology. Unlike conventional cultural models that function primarily as static displays, this platform transforms a physical 3D cultural village model into an engaging learning ecosystem by integrating Augmented Reality (AR), multimedia content, STEM education, and green technology. To the best of our knowledge, Kirei Cultural Village is among the first educational platforms to integrate a physical 3D cultural village model with QR-code-free Augmented Reality, multimedia learning, STEM education, and green technology into a single immersive learning experience.

A key innovation of the platform is its QR-code-free AR interaction, where users simply scan the 3D model itself to instantly access interactive videos, animations, authentic traditional Sabah music, and educational content without scanning an additional QR code. This seamless interaction enhances user engagement while promoting active, experiential, and self-directed learning.

The platform incorporates sustainable technologies, including solar energy, wind turbines, automated irrigation systems, water wheels, and smart farming, demonstrating how cultural heritage can coexist with environmental sustainability and technological advancement. By combining heritage preservation with digital innovation, Kirei Cultural Village fosters creativity, critical thinking, digital literacy, environmental awareness, and STEM competencies among learners.

The effectiveness of the platform was evaluated through public exhibitions involving more than 200 visitors. User feedback demonstrated strong acceptance, with 98% reporting increased learning interest, 95% acknowledging enhanced awareness of Sabah’s cultural heritage, 90% recognising the value of green technology and smart systems integration, and 100% expressing positive responses towards the platform’s Augmented Reality (AR) interactivity. These findings demonstrate the platform’s effectiveness in enhancing engagement, cultural appreciation, and technology-enhanced learning.

Furthermore, the innovation supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by promoting inclusive digital education, preserving cultural heritage, encouraging sustainable innovation, and fostering environmental responsibility.

Designed for implementation in schools, museums, cultural centres, tourism destinations, and educational institutions, Kirei Cultural Village offers a scalable, sustainable, and future-ready platform that transforms cultural heritage into an interactive learning experience, ensuring that Sabah’s cultural legacy remains accessible, engaging, and relevant for future generations.

Keywords: Interactive Learning Platform, Augmented Reality, Cultural Heritage, STEM Education, Green Technology, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Digital Learning, Sabah Culture, Innovation.