1. Can you tell readers how the magazine’s name was chosen?

In April 1993, Vietnam’s National Flag Carrier – Vietnam Airlines was established. Right after that, the idea for an in-flight magazine was quickly realized to cater to passengers’ entertainment needs and enhance the quality of our in-air services. At that time, many tasks were carried out with great urgency, including the selection of a name for this publication. The chosen name had to meet the specific nature of the aviation business while also bearing the imprint of Vietnamese culture. After much information-gathering, consultation, and deliberation, the name “Heritage” was chosen. At first, I, along with some others, did not feel comfortable with the name as it did not seem to connect with the field of aviation. However, upon deeper reflection on the philosophical significance, “Heritage” seemed appropriate, and there was no need for the name to be the same as that of other airlines’ publications. What made it even more special was that the magazine’s mission was to bridge the cultures of Vietnam and the world. 

2. From then until now, what were your expectations for Heritage Magazine? 

I must honestly share that Heritage was launched at the same time that Vietnam Airlines began operating under a new model, so the company had many tasks to accomplish to ensure operational efficiency, safety, and security. Therefore, at that time, we did not have any significant expectations beyond producing accurate content, avoiding mistakes, and gradually gaining readers’ trust. Importantly, since the publication was named Heritage, it had to maintain its direction and mission, as I mentioned earlier. I am satisfied with this aspect, as Heritage Magazine has done consistently well in recent years.

3. How would you evaluate the maturation of Heritage Magazine? 

Over the past 30 years, even after stepping down from the role of Editor-in-Chief, I have always followed and read all of the magazine’s publications. This is not about “self-praise”, but as a reader, I rate Heritage as one of the top publications on culture today, with deeply insightful articles that effectively promote Vietnamese culture and history via a diverse approach. The imagery, design, and printing are all of the highest quality. I am so proud of that!

4. In your opinion, how should Heritage Magazine evolve in order to both retain its mission as a cultural bridge and attract new readers in this “flat world”?

In my view, on the one hand, the Editorial Board must be closely attuned to developments in journalism and quickly grasp readers’ interests in contemporary issues of the nation and the world. On the other hand, publications produced by Heritage Magazine must always maintain their core mission of deeply reflecting the cultural and humanitarian aspects of the Vietnamese people.

5. Can you give some congratulatory wishes for Heritage’s 30th anniversary?

Here’s wishing that the magazine, although it’s turning 30, always remains trendy and in touch with the younger generations, while preserving its core values of culture and heritage to stand strong for the next 30 years and beyond.

Thank you!