Chinese Culture Acculturation in The Design of Masjid Lama Machap

Abstract

The influx of Chinese people into Malaya occurred in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The influence of Chinese culture on the architecture of old Malaysian mosques is one of the implications of their presence. Acculturation is the process by which a foreign culture enters a society. For example, the architecture of the mosque, which displays form from the acculturation of Malay and Chinese cultures, resulting in a unique form. As a result, the objective of this research is to investigate the existence of the Masjid Lama Machap (MLM) Malacca Mosque through art forms and acculturation outcomes from two different cultures. To explain this, the researcher employs a qualitative descriptive research method with a cultural focus. Written and visual data were collected using methods such as interviews and observations. The study's findings indicate that there is a distinct cultural acculturation at Malacca's Old Machap Mosque (MLM). The design of the pyramid roof, roof crown, decoration, and minaret all contribute to the incorporation of Chinese culture in this mosque. Acculturation of existing cultures does not annihilate some existing cultures, but rather complements and coexists with them. This mosque's form of acculturation is a treasure trove of local culture and architecture. Aside from that, this study can provide a clearer picture of the development of the previous Islamic community's architecture in the Malay world and is expected to serve as a reference for researchers today as they further develop ideas in architectural planning and interior design.