UNIVERSITI TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN

LEE KONG CHIAN FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND SCIENCE

UEBA3523 ASIAN ARCHITECTURE

SESSION 202101

TOPIC OF THE VIEW : MALAYSIAN ARCHITECTURE

TUTOR: ENCIK ABD MULUK BIN ABD MANAN

Student Name No. ID Programe Yr/Sem

HO SONG SEN 1900636 AR Y3S1

COMMENT:
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 List of Figures

Figure Description Page

No. No.

2.1a The distribution of orang asli in Malaysia 2

3.1 a Group picture of the Badan Warisan Malaysia 5
3.1b & c Top: Empire Hotel, 1909-1919, Peninsula Hotel, 1919-1973 6
Bottom: Now the Loke Chow Kit residence and headquarters of the PAM

3.2.1 a & b Left: Rumah Kutai in bad condition ready to be restored; 7

Right: The meticulously 120-years-old Rumah Kutai being restored

3.2.1 c The owner with his Rumah Kutai with damar wood ‘tiang seri’ 8

3.2.1 d Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman, Kedah 9

3.2.1 e Mat of pandanus placed in the living space 9
3.2.2 a Salinger house elevation (hand sketch) 10
3.2.2 b Figure 3.2.2 b, Ground floor to second floor plans (left to right) of 10
the Salinger house (hand sketch)

3.2.2 c Post-and-beam timber structure raised on stilts 11

3.2.2 d Marang Resorts and Safaris 12
3.2.3 a The old Pasar Seni and now 13
3.2.4 a Kampung Kuala Dal Old Mosque, Kuala Kangsar 14
3.2.5 a Building in deplorable state and restored 14
4.0 a The LUTH building, an attempt at drawing on indigenous culture for 15
inspiration, an example for future Malaysian Architecture

4.0 b Proposed design, Angkasa Raya, Kuala Lumpur 16

4.0 c Ryuichi Ashizawa's sustainable factory tower references Islamic 16
culture of Malaysia

4.0 d Warisan Merdeka Tower (KL118) to be complete 17

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 Table of Contents

List of Figures i
1.0 Introduction 1
2.0 Brief chronology of the Malaysian architecture 2
2.1 Indigenous architecture 2
2.2 Foreign influences 3
2.3 Post-independence 4
3.0 Building conservation 5
3.1 Brief history of the building conservation 5
3.2 Method of conserving building 6
3.2.1 Restoration/ Reconstruction 7
3.2.2 Reproduction 10
3.2.3 Rehabilitation 13
3.2.4 Consolidation 15
3.2.5 Preservation 15
4.0 A future for the past and now 16
5.0 Conclusion 19
6.0 References 20
7.0 Bibliography 21

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1.0 Introduction
Malaysian architecture changes and evolves to adapt to the future aspirations. Nowadays, alongside
contemporary design, incorporating the existing heritage is a new oblige of the nation to gain prospects
for the cultural landscape of variant architecture notion as progressions are currently underway. The
architecture does not fall into a single notion and varies with states from indigenous architecture to
architecture after post-independence, even since now or maybe the future.
Admittedly, the report investigates the practices employed now and suggestion in the future
approach that will further preserve the architecture that hold our sense of pride and belonging.

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2.0 Brief Chronology of the Malaysian architecture
2.1 Indigenous architecture

Surrounded by the Malay archipelagos, Malay vernacular architecture is believed as the pioneer of
Malaysian architecture. As early as the 3rd century BCE, there is already proof from the Indian
chroniclers on the existence of indigenous architecture. Orang Asli (Austronesian people), start setting
their footprint on the Peninsulas as well as Sabah and Sarawak.
As an example, dubbed as the cradle of Malay cultures, the East coast (now Kelantan) had its
regional identity withal their vernacular architecture qualities is also a key creating a significant cultural
landscape, which is a major influence for the other Malay vernacular houses despite the variance in
building envelope design. Changes in the cultural landscape of Kelantan are a transient phase. The
primordial stage of Kelantan can be dated far back to the Hindu-Buddhist era, Islamic era, and Siamese.
Meanwhile, eminently suited to the hot, wet climate of Malaysia.

Figure 2.1a, The distribution of orang asli in Malaysia

(Source: http://ainnahuzeera.blogspot.com/2014/04/orang-asli-di-malaysia.html )

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 2.2 Foreign influences

Malaya, primed for strong foreign influence through opulence and trades, converged to form a
distinct populous. Nevertheless, the inevitable colonialism of some countries, most notable the tenure
of the British, had an influx of Eastern and Western ideology in the fusion of Malaysian architecture.
Mainly Western Neoclassical style was to be seen, as a function of administration building for
commerce purpose.
Besides, the uprising fiscal interest like tin mining, initialized along the estuaries of the West coast.
Chinese and Indian expatriates had also influenced Malaysian architecture while they were brought to
work at the plantation or mines. In the strait settlement, the first Chinese shophouses erected by
immigrants from Guangdong were a pastiche from that of South China.
As state above, Malaysia architecture can be defined as a synthetic of diverse immigrant practices.
Many of the stylistic or material influences have undergone various degrees of integration of immigrant
practices with the local traditional genres.
The blend of influences created its uniqueness in building form which consist of loose categories
like Malay, Indian, Chinese, and European architectural styles. Hence, resulting in diverse patterns that
are an eclectic expression of Malaysian architectural traditions. (HERITAGE OF MALAYSIAN
TRUST, 1985)

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 2.3 Post-independence

The post-independence in Malaysia had gain impetus on the development of architecture, where
innovation and industrialized construction methods arose among the proud nationhood, nationalism and
self-government. Ideas of Nationalism alongside visual symbolism should be incorporated into the
progressive image of a young, vibrant, multi-ethnic country.
Initially, the immediate post-independence leads to polemics that ought to define Malaysian
architectural identity - an architecture of statehood. Ranging from Functionalist, Eclectic, Revivalist,
Moghul, and attempts to adapt traditional Malay architecture. Each has its role in portraying the
opulence of vernacular heritage, fiscal and technological prowess of the country.
The Classical style begins to go for contemporary. However, it was not until the transitional stage
of the Art deco style advent and the true Modernism and the International Style in the 1950s that
Malaysia’s modern skyline began to develop. Likewise, the growth of commercial, administrative and
recreational activities, especially in the Federal Capital Kuala Lumpur.

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3.0 Building conservation
ICOMOS (Burra Charter Article 1.4, 1999) defined building conservation as the process of
conservation and preservation of cultural significance of a historical reservation. It is practiced to
prolonged the cultural and natural heritage life beyond the generation as possible.
3.1 Brief history of the building conversation
The mouthpiece of Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM), Majallah Akitek (Architecture Malaysia),
is the first ever grassroot movement that issues the preservation of the heritage buildings, which the
content goes around the enactment of laws, listing of heritage buildings and also the awareness of the
nation. Merdeka Square were then being marked as Kuala Lumpur Conservation Area. The fact that the
building can survive until now is that the building serves for government under protection of nation’s
law court.
The first NGO for heritage conservation was formed, Heritage of Malaysia Trust (Badan Warisan
Malaysia) under a group of concerned nations and emigrants in 1983. This is due to the case of imminent
threat of demolition of a well-known heritage building, which is the former Loke Chow Kit residence,
headquarters of the PAM. After the years, Badan Warisan Malaysia had instated a general record list
of almost 30000 prewar buildings in 247 town.
Earlier in 1990s, A draft of Building Conservation Act is introduced, calling conservation fund and
modal to preserve the buildings as well as training appropriate legalization for the government officials.
Several acts are enacted, the Antiquities Act, the Land Acquisition Act, the Local Government Act and
the Town and Country Planning Act to further preserve old heritages. Under the National Heritage Act
2005, the Department of National Heritage was established on 1 March 2006.

Figure 3.1a, Group picture of the Badan Warisan Malaysia

(Source: https://www.hati.my/badan-warisan-malaysia-the-heritage-of-malaysia-trust/ )

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 Figure 3.1b & c, Top: Empire Hotel, 1909-1919, Peninsula Hotel, 1919-1973
Bottom: Now the Loke Chow Kit residence and headquarters of the PAM
(Source: http://myheritagebuildings.blogspot.com/2020/04/loke-hall-early-20th-century-
comprador.html & https://www.flickr.com/photos/mzabdullah/26870620448 )

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 3.2 Methods of conserving building
Building conservation combines remedial operation and maintenance consists of series of methods
such as restoration, preservation, rehabilitation, reconstruction, and reconciliation or were affiliates.
(National Heritage Act, 2005 (Act 645)).

3.2.1 Restoration/ Reconstruction

Refurbishment of the old, using original material as possible based on historical evidences with
minimal supersede by modern technology. While reconstruct involve moving the building to a safer
location and reconstruct, mostly point toward modular structures like Malay vernacular houses.
Example:
i. Restoration of several Rumah Kutai (Bamboo Houses) from central Perak in 1995 being
awarded a Jurors Award by PAM.

Figure 3.2.1 a & b, Left: Rumah Kutai in bad condition ready to be restored;
Right: The meticulously 120-years-old Rumah Kutai being restored
(Source: https://www.pressreader.com/malaysia/the-star-malaysia/20110906/287814349889961 )

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 Figure 3.2.1 c, The owner with his Rumah Kutai with damar wood ‘tiang seri’
(Source: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2019/05/491677/very-few-rumah-kutai-left )

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ii. Reconstruction of Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman from Kedah in mid-1990s after being
purchased by Badan Warisan.

Figure 3.2.1 d, Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman, Kedah

(Source: https://www.myrokan.com/2016/11/rumah-penghulu-abu-seman.html )

Figure 3.2.1 e, Mat of pandanus placed in the living space

(Source: https://www.myrokan.com/2016/11/rumah-penghulu-abu-seman.html )

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3.2.2 Reproduction
Utilising artefacts and building element design and incorporated into a new building to leaves traces
of memorabilia and also to maintain aesthetic from the old. Since ecotourism is a fiscal opportunity for
Malaysia, elements of the traditional building can be seen using in resorts and sectors that relates to
ecotourism.
Example:
i. The Salinger house designed in Singhorra style (Kelantan style) received the coveted Aga Khan
Award for Architecture in 1998. The whole structure was constructed for 6 years mainly with
cengal wood, and neither mechanical connectors nor nails for construction.

Figure 3.2.2 a, Salinger house elevation (hand sketch)

Figure 3.2.2 b, Ground floor to second floor plans (left to right) of the Salinger house
(hand sketch)

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Figure 3.2.2 c, Post-and-beam timber structure raised on stilts
(source: https://archnet.org/sites/1205 )

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ii. Marang Resorts and Safaris were built in late 1990s in Marang, Terengganu with minimal
machineries done by local skilled workers. The spatial quality of the resorts also taken account
from the traditional Malay houses.

Figure 3.2.2 d, Marang Resorts and Safaris

(Source: https://archnet.org/sites/1376/media_contents/13284 )

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3.2.3 Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation means restoring of the function of the old building from an economic point of view
pandering the needs and preference from post-occupancy evaluations (POE).

Greffe (2004) mentioned that public awareness in preserving the heritage relates to social-economic
changes. Hence, the need in maintaining the novelty of products and creating new jobs opportunity are
the two main concerns in heritage preservation.

Example:
i. The Central Market or Pasar Seni was successfully rehabilitate to a cultural market from a wet
market, which was destined for demolition. The original Art Deco elements like friezes on the
building is remained intact with new paint applied.

Figure 3.2.3 a, The old Pasar Seni and now

(Source: https://www.centralmarket.com.my/history.php )
(Source: http://www.kuala-lumpur.ws/attractions/central-market.htm )

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3.2.4 Consolidation
Maintain the structural robustness by adding extra supportive structures.

Figure 3.2.4a, Kampung Kuala Dal Old Mosque, Kuala Kangsar

(before and after conservation, 2009)
(Source: https://puiling2017.wordpress.com/2017/12/15/the-conservation-of-culture-heritage/ )

3.2.5 Preservation
Regular checkups and restoration being employed.

Figure 3.2.5a, Building in deplorable state and restored

(Source: https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Characterisation-and-Consolidation-of-
Historical-in-Ngoma/2be09ada5ee894703d50d011beccb36881025e4e )

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4.0 A future for the past and now
Facing rapid urban development, architects should provide strategic plans and injecting new lease
of life in building development. (PAM director Ezumi Harzani Ismail, 2018). Not only sustainable
smart cities are the future of Malaysian Architecture, also the imagery of the building that frame the
significant of Malaysian Architecture to put into concern.
Since abrupt size and scale is the polemic factor that causes public dispute, the new generation
architect had a vast challenge in using relatable form, shapes, and pattern in interpreting the built
environment. The transportation of cultural references into contemporaries and high rise, notably
Traditional Malay house, can be seen in some buildings.
With the ongoing of preservation on heritage buildings, there will also be greener collective cities
and inclusive architectures in the future. Digital technologies, robotics, and automation will become the
trend provided minimal supersede of local materials on behalf of technologies. Green and sustainable
awards bring inspiration for generation of architects to come to built a more philanthropic Malaysian
architecture with the prolific of minds.

Figure 4.0 a, The LUTH building, an attempt at drawing on indigenous culture for inspiration,
an example for future Malaysian Architecture
(Source: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/An-attempt-at-drawing-on-indigenous-culture-for-
inspiration-the-LUTH-Building-Photo_fig3_255729902 )

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 Figure 4.0 b, Proposed design, Angkasa Raya, Kuala Lumpur
(Source: https://www.e-architect.com/malaysian-architecture )

Figure 4.0 c, Ryuichi Ashizawa's sustainable factory tower references Islamic culture of Malaysia
(Source: https://www.designboom.com/architecture/ryuichi-ashizawa-sustainable-factory-tower-
malaysia-references-islamic-culture-06-05-2020/ )

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 Figure 4.0 d, Warisan Merdeka Tower (KL118) to be complete
(Source: https://twitter.com/theb1m/status/1283778938116939776)

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5.0 Conclusion
On the threshold of the new millennium, Malaysia architecture had gained a milestone, carrying the
livelihood of the old while pursuing new. This process is vital for a country to look back to the past and
cherish in the present, to serve as a resource pool of traditional building techniques, shaping the nation
identity and enrichment of urban life.
In sum, the built environment is a product of history and culture. It is also the source of its
nourishment which provides gradual growth towards a balanced development.

(1793 words)

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6.0 Reference

Abdullah, Z. (2020, April 18). Loke Hall - an early 20th century Comprador mansion. Retrieved April
06, 2021, from http://myheritagebuildings.blogspot.com/2020/04/loke-hall-early-20th-century-
comprador.html

Afifi, F. (2017, May 15). HOW conservation works take place in Malaysia. Retrieved April 05, 2021,
from https://www.slideshare.net/wanfakhrulafifi95/how-conservation-works-take-place-in-malaysia

Babulal, V., & Sabri, F. (2019, November 18). Experts urge restoration Of Kl's decaying HISTORIC
BUILDINGS: New Straits Times. Retrieved April 06, 2021, from
https://www.nst.com.my/news/exclusive/2019/11/539732/experts-urge-restoration-kls-decaying-
historic-buildings

Miklweb. (2019, April 19). Towards a conservation movement in Malaysia (Part i) by HAJEEDAR
bin Abdul Majid, 1976. Retrieved April 05, 2021, from
https://miklweb.wixsite.com/icomosmalaysia/single-post/2019/04/19/voices-from-the-past-towards-a-
conservation-movement-in-malaysia-part-i-by-hajeedar-bin-a

Rumah penghulu ABU SEMAN. (2020, August 25). Retrieved April 06, 2021, from
https://badanwarisanmalaysia.org/visit-us/rumah-penghulu-abu-seman/

Salinger house. (2019, January 16). Retrieved April 05, 2021, from
https://badanwarisanmalaysia.org/tag/salinger-house/

Sani, R. (2018, April 18). Grooming future ARCHITECTS: New Straits Times. Retrieved April 06,
2021, from https://www.nst.com.my/education/2018/04/358628/grooming-future-architects

Welch, A. (2020, March 09). Malaysian architecture - Kuala LUMPUR buildings - e-architect.
Retrieved April 06, 2021, from https://www.e-architect.com/malaysian-architecture

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7.0 Bibliography

Chee, H. (n.d.). About central market kuala lumpur: Central market. Retrieved April 06, 2021, from
https://www.centralmarket.com.my/history.php

History. (2020, January 03). Retrieved April 05, 2021, from

https://badanwarisanmalaysia.org/tag/history/

Khee, A. (1970, January 01). Orang Asli DI Malaysia. Retrieved April 06, 2021, from
http://ainnahuzeera.blogspot.com/2014/04/orang-asli-di-malaysia.html

Nor, I. (1970, January 01). Rumah penghulu ABU SEMAN. Retrieved April 06, 2021, from
https://www.myrokan.com/2016/11/rumah-penghulu-abu-seman.html

Pressreader.com - your favorite newspapers and magazines. (n.d.). Retrieved April 06, 2021, from
https://www.pressreader.com/malaysia/the-star-malaysia/20110906/287814349889961

Salinger residence: Aga Khan Development Network. (n.d.). Retrieved April 05, 2021, from
https://www.akdn.org/architecture/project/salinger-residence

Marang resort AND Safaris: Beach. (n.d.). Retrieved April 06, 2021, from
https://archnet.org/sites/1376/media_contents/13284

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