INTERPRETATION OF HERITAGE SITE: VISITORS’ SATISFACTION ON THE INTERPRETIVE EXHIBITS IN DATARAN BANDAR

Abstract

Interpretation of a building or a site could be made easier using interpretive exhibits. While protecting the built heritage and conserving the traditional and cultural values present a real challenge for conservation stakeholders, making sure that the history is being told clearly is also a must. This study aims to investigate the existing ‘realities’ on heritage interpretive exhibits at Dataran Medan Bandar, Alor Setar. The study assessed the existing presentation quality of the exhibits, whether they served the purpose of telling the history of the objects or monuments. The assessment revealed almost half of the respondents believed that improvement is needed. The findings reflected important aspects to be considered in the interpretation and presentation of comprehensive knowledge of and awareness in presenting the story of the place. The incorporation of integrated approaches of inculcating heritage values that are conveyed to visitors through effective presentation strategy supported by sustainable philosophy is proposed.