Heritage In Malaysia Research Articles

Initial Assessment of Indoor Environmental Condition and Thermal Comfort of Malaysia Heritage Mosque

Heritage mosques are the gems of the country as they preserve the history of local communities and nation. Many studies have been executed on the architectural characteristics of Malaysia heritage mosques. However, the empirical studies on its indoor environmental condition and thermal comfort are still lacking. Therefore, the objective of this study is to identify the indoor environmental condition and thermal comfort of Malaysia heritage mosque by using the field measurement method. The selected heritage mosque for this study is Masjid Tanah, which is located at Masjid Tanah, Alor Gajah, Melaka. Two multiparameter ventilation meters were used in the field measurement. The variables measured were air temperature and air velocity, while the indoor predicted comfort temperature was calculated using the adaptive thermal comfort model equation. The results show that the average indoor air temperatures were lower than the average outdoor air temperatures throughout the measurement. This is also similar with the indoor air velocities which were lower than the outdoor wind speeds at all times. Meanwhile, the results also demonstrate that the average indoor air temperatures were also lower than the indoor predicted comfort temperatures during the morning hours until 1 pm. The overall findings indicate that the architectural characteristics of the selected heritage mosque has a good response to the local climate. However, some improvements are necessary in enhancing the indoor thermal comfort. The findings can be used as guides for achieving a more comfortable indoor environmental condition of heritage mosques, as well as the modern mosques also.

The Safeguarding of Living Person of Heritage from the Perspectives of National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645)

The objective of this research is to identify the relevancy of National Heritage Act 645 (Act 645) in the efforts of protecting the living person of heritage and disseminating the knowledge and skills of intangible cultural heritage in Malaysia. This recognized living persons also are listed under the NHA 2005, called Living Person Heritage Program (LPHP). The living persons or cultural practitioners who were once actively engaged in traditional performing arts were decreasing due to lack of successors or apprentice after they have passed away or unable to continue the performance. This situation is disturbing because it gives a great loss to the country because of the talent, skills, ability and knowledge possessed by this living person will disappear without having an opportunity to pass it down to younger people. This descriptive research applied a case study method which gives more in-depth information on the subject by an individual or small group of individuals. Expert Interviews and Document Review were the main tools applied in collecting data. The findings indicated that although NHA 2005 do provides a proper protection to these living persons. This is essential because the living persons or cultural practitioners will remain protected as a heritage and tourism product that indirectly will generate income for the country. This study can contribute to the formulation of national policies regarding safeguarding heritage.

THE POTENTIAL AND CHALLENGES IN THE CONSERVATION OF HAJJ HISTORY AND HERITAGE IN MALAYSIA

Purpose of the study: The study aims to identify the prospects and challenges in preservation of hajj history and heritage in Malaysia.
 Methodology: This paper reports the analysis of documents and data collection on hajj conducted through library research.
 Principal Findings and Novelty: The results of this study show that the principal challenges in preservation of hajj history and heritage in Malaysia are limited literature, difficulties in obtaining information pertaining to Hajj in pre-Malaysia days, poor documentation of the primary sources as well as individual narratives on hajj exercise and unrecorded stories and memories of individuals. This study shows that the history and heritage of Hajj are seen to have tremendous potential to assist in strengthening the tourism industry based on heritage in Malaysia.
 Applications of this study: Appropriate measures are to be taken by the government to prevent the loss of history and heritage of the Hajj operations in Malaysia. Efforts must also be made to document the memories of different parties who were directly involved in the Hajj exercises for future widespread.

Community heritage engagement in Malaysian archaeology: A case from the prehistoric rock art site of Tambun

ABSTRACTThis paper explores contemporary community archaeology in Malaysia, through the consideration of the example of the Prehistoric Rock Art site of Gua Tambun. It argues that the existing community heritage engagement practices often disenfranchise the community knowledge, and highly conform to a top-down model. Our investigations pointed out a pattern of exclusion, where the inclusion of the local community in management planning is relatively low. In response to these issues, a community-driven engagement project has been developed, aiming at encouraging community engagement in archaeology through the promotion of awareness and local capacity building centre to a bottom-up approach. Given that the community-driven approach is a relatively new alternative in Malaysian heritage management, this project serves as a new benchmark to reflect the pitfalls and prospects in the future delivery of a sustainable conservation management of archaeological heritage in Malaysia.

THREE-DIMENSIONAL RECORDING AND PHOTOREALISTIC MODEL RECONSTRUCTION FOR VIRTUAL MUSEUM APPLICATION – AN EXPERIENCE IN MALAYSIA

Abstract. In recent years, museums are utilizing the ability of virtual reality (VR) technologies to visualize their collections in three-dimensional (3D) environment. The demands for 3D digitization of cultural heritage have increase greatly to facilitate the development of virtual museum. Among the available techniques, the use of laser scanning for digital recording and 3D reproduction of the heritage sites and archaeological artefacts are technically more reliable due to its rapid and high resolution data capture. However, the suitable 3D laser scanners used greatly depend on the level of details and size of an object. This research used medium and close-range type of laser scanners to digitally record the heritage objects. The aim of this research was to develop methodology framework for digital recording and 3D reproduction of archaeological artefact and heritage sites in Malaysia by using terrestrial laser scanning technology. Besides, this research focused on the reconstruction of photorealistic 3D models based on the colour information yield by close-range photogrammetry. The colour descriptions were obtained either by built-in camera or externally integrated camera on the laser scanner. For better colour descriptions, external images were captured by independent Nikon D300s digital camera. The geometric model accuracy of A’Famosa and terracotta Buddha statuette was in 5 mm and 0.41 mm respectively. 3D flythrough animation was rendered by using the coloured point clouds model. The development of 3D Virtual Walkthrough Museum (3DVWM) utilized the 3D PDF document and SCENE WebShare platform to offer realistic visualization experience to the visitors where the reality-based models could be manipulate in 3D geometric aspects and use of metric analysis. Thus, 3DVWM can facilitate the virtual museum application in Malaysia and enable wider visitors to virtually appreciate the cultural heritage in Malaysia. Thus, this indirectly stimulates the tourism industry in our country.

Preliminary evaluation of indoor thermal comfort in Malaysia heritage mosque

Malaysia heritage buildings are the country's architectural gems. Among them is the religious building such as mosque. The Malaysia heritage mosque is normally built in response to the local culture and environment. Unlike most of Malaysia modern mosques where air conditioning is opted as ventilation mode, the heritage mosques achieve indoor thermal comfort via the passive architectural design. Due to that, this study was executed with the purpose of investigating the indoor thermal comfort of a Malaysia heritage mosque located at traditional street in Melaka, namely Masjid Tanah. The methodology used in the study was field measurement, in which the parameters measured were the indoor and outdoor air temperatures. The field measurement was conducted for two days in the end of March and early of April 2018, from 9 am to 4 pm. The indoor predicted comfort temperature was derived using the adaptive model. The findings indicated that the measured indoor air temperatures were lower than the indoor predicted comfort temperatures at most of the time. Therefore, it shows that the passive architectural design adopted by the Malaysia heritage mosque, which is Masjid Tanah, is able to provide indoor thermal comfort to the users.

3D documenatation of the petalaindera: digital heritage preservation methods using 3D laser scanner and photogrammetry

3D imaging technologies have undergone massive revolution in recent years. Despite this rapid development, documentation of 3D cultural assets in Malaysia is still very much reliant upon conventional techniques such as measured drawings and manual photogrammetry. There is very little progress towards exploring new methods or advanced technologies to convert 3D cultural assets into 3D visual representation and visualization models that are easily accessible for information sharing. In recent years, however, the advent of computer vision (CV) algorithms make it possible to reconstruct 3D geometry of objects by using image sequences from digital cameras, which are then processed by web services and freeware applications. This paper presents a completed stage of an exploratory study that investigates the potentials of using CV automated image-based open-source software and web services to reconstruct and replicate cultural assets. By selecting an intricate wooden boat, Petalaindera, this study attempts to evaluate the efficiency of CV systems and compare it with the application of 3D laser scanning, which is known for its accuracy, efficiency and high cost. The final aim of this study is to compare the visual accuracy of 3D models generated by CV system, and 3D models produced by 3D scanning and manual photogrammetry for an intricate subject such as the Petalaindera. The final objective is to explore cost-effective methods that could provide fundamental guidelines on the best practice approach for digital heritage in Malaysia.

CHANGES AND THREATS IN THE PRESERVATION OF THE TRADITIONAL MALAY LANDSCAPE

The cultural landscape is regarded as being of the most complex designs which involves interactions between man, nature, cultural values and the associated built environment. Issues relating to the degradation of the cultural landscape are often caused by rapid urbanisation and industrialisation. The traditional Malay Landscape exists through harmoniously balanced interactions between man, nature and culture together with the traditional house, and contains unique and interesting features that have to be preserved as one of the most important cultural heritage sites. However, the preservation of heritage in Malaysia tends to focus more on architectural buildings rather than adopting a holistic approach that includes the surrounding environment of where the building is located. The absence of such approach has contributed towards the loss of the traditional Malay Landscape. This study highlights the changes and threats in the preservation of the traditional Malay Landscape by focusing on the preservation of a traditional house compound. The research employs a qualitative approach which involves site visits, interviews, and document analysis concerning the research topic. The old Malay villages located in Tumpat, Kelantan and Alor Gajah, Melaka have been selected as case studies. The findings reveal that the changes and threats include four underlying aspects; Unsuitable and inappropriate uses, Ownership Problems, Inadequate fund and consultation and Current development trends. The study concludes that the traditional Malay Landscape is facing numerous changes and threats in terms of its physical characteristics, environmental aspects and cultural values. In addition, the study reveals that traditional Malay landscape is not seen here as an integrating, holistic concept.

CHANGES AND THREATS IN THE PRESERVATION OF THE TRADITIONAL MALAY LANDSCAPE

The cultural landscape is regarded as being of the most complex designs which involves interactions between man, nature, cultural values and the associated built environment. Issues relating to the degradation of the cultural landscape are often caused by rapid urbanisation and industrialisation. The traditional Malay Landscape exists through harmoniously balanced interactions between man, nature and culture together with the traditional house, and contains unique and interesting features that have to be preserved as one of the most important cultural heritage sites. However, the preservation of heritage in Malaysia tends to focus more on architectural buildings rather than adopting a holistic approach that includes the surrounding environment of where the building is located. The absence of such approach has contributed towards the loss of the traditional Malay Landscape. This study highlights the changes and threats in the preservation of the traditional Malay Landscape by focusing on the preservation of a traditional house compound. The research employs a qualitative approach which involves site visits, interviews, and document analysis concerning the research topic. The old Malay villages located in Tumpat, Kelantan and Alor Gajah, Melaka have been selected as case studies. The findings reveal that the changes and threats include four underlying aspects; Unsuitable and inappropriate uses, Ownership Problems, Inadequate fund and consultation and Current development trends. The study concludes that the traditional Malay Landscape is facing numerous changes and threats in terms of its physical characteristics, environmental aspects and cultural values. In addition, the study reveals that traditional Malay landscape is not seen here as an integrating, holistic concept.

An Overview on Intangible Cultural Heritage In Malaysia

Malaysia is a country of many races and cultures. Melaka and George Town are among them which reflect the encounter on cultural elements of the Malay Archipelago, India, China and Europe that created a culture, architecture and the most beautiful heritage buildings. Intangible cultural heritage is a legacy that is easily vanished by the passage of time versus current tangible heritage. This is because the younger generation is not interested in inheriting the cultural heritage, it is therefore feared that the heritage will be vanished. The objective of this article is to list the elements contained in the intangible cultural heritage, namely performing arts, customs and culture, language and literature, fine art/crafts, and heritage of the living. The importance of this article is that the public can find out about the importance of intangible cultural heritage, thereby maintaining the heritage. Thus, the society will appreciate more the diversity of cultural heritage in Malaysia and increase self-esteem, especially the younger generation.

The Involvement of State Gov- ernment, Agencies and Local Authority Policies on the Conser- vation of Heritage Spots in Malaysia

This paper is analyzes the local policy implementation by the state authorities at two historical cities, namely Melaka (Malacca) and George Town, Penang. Both cities are awarded as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Or- ganization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites. One of the most prominent compo- nent of tangible cultural heritage is historic buildings. Thus, it is essential to ensure the sustainability of those buildings so that they will keep attracting more domestic and international travelers. Lack of awareness from the local residents is one main issue arises due to some policies imposed by the local government concerning the historic buildings. This paper is based on previous literature and from findings of a study. The findings were obtained from content analysis of local daily bilingual print newspapers namely The Star and Berita Harian (BH) on the portrayal of cultural heritage in Malaysia. The result of this paper would sheds some light, especially on the conservation of historical buildings to both historical cities through the role of the state government and agencies in imple- menting and enforcing the formulated policies.

A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK FOR DIGITALIZING TANGIBLE HERITAGE IN MALAYSIA

Conservation of tangible heritage has environmental sustainability benefits; Cultural heritage management remains a key priority for governments and civil society in Asia and Europe, which also acknowledged the significant role of non-governmental stakeholders in heritage. In Malaysia, the effort of conserving heritage buildings commenced approximately 30 to 40 years ago which is still at it infant stage. The implementation of National Heritage Act beginning from 2006 faces many challenges in confronting the wave of rapid urbanization. A review of necessary literature was carried out critically highlighting some fundamental principles in conservation of historic building which inform conceptualizing a framework for the digitalizing tangible heritage in Malaysia. The conceptual framework shows the complexity involves in managing tangible heritage digitization process. The process required interdisciplinary collaborative process from many expertise and professionals. The results form the basis for a proposed automated tool to assist in the development of strategies for conservation and increasing tourism potentials in Malaysia. This proposed framework would be further tested in form of a collaborative research among professional from different fields in built environment.

Cultural Heritage Tourism in Malaysia: Issues and Challenges

Malaysia is experiencing an incredible pace of tourism development and heritage tourism is one of the tourism branches that have long contributed to appeal the tourist destination and acts as important marketing tool to attract tourist especially with special interests in heritage and arts. Cultural heritage tourism has emerged as a potential form of alternative tourism among both international tourists as well as Malaysian domestic travelers. The difference of ethnics present in Malaysia brought different local knowledge discipline ranging from its architecture, handicrafts, traditional attire, music and dance, which reflects a colorful heritage and an amalgamated culture. There are arise of conflict in management of cultural heritage tourism in Malaysia face by tourism managers, stakeholders, governments, cultural heritage managers and local community itself. In order to maintain, conserve and preserve the resources and assets of cultural heritage in Malaysia, a system or management need to be develop that take into consideration on every issues and challenge, so that the decision making process is reliable to optimize the value of cultural heritage tourism industry in Malaysia. The purpose of this paper is to give an overview and discuss the status, issues and challenge of cultural heritage tourism in Malaysia.

The Use of a Motion Capture Facility to Capture the Puppeteer and Puppets’ Movements in Wayang Kulit Kelantan Performance

The Kelantan Malay shadow play, a local cultural heritage in Malaysia is threatened with imminent extinction. There have been no significant attempts made at preserving this important traditional art form and it is clear that with the current situation in Malaysia and the low level of official support, Wayang Kulit Kelantan is unlikely to last long. Some researchers have suggested that this form of theatre be digitized into the cyber world so that it can be watched on the digital screen. The digitisation of Wayang Kulit Kelantan will promote the art form and also indirectly help to preserve it in alternative media. One of the major problems faced by the traditional Wayang Kulit Kelantan is that of disseminating the technique of puppeteer. Based on a closed system of individual attachment or discipleship, the art of puppeteer has been traditionally passed down to direct descendants of the master puppeteers. This system of handling down Wayang Kulit Kelantan is no longer practised by the few puppeteers who are still active. The art of puppeteer is not well-documented because on the whole the older generations of practitioners have been reluctant to share their knowledge with outsiders. However, since Wayang Kulit performances cannot sustain the livelihood of puppeteers in Malaysia, not many people venture into this traditional performing art; even the offspring of puppeteers are not very keen to carry on with it. This paper presents the use of a motion capture facility to capture and preserve the movements of an acting puppeteer and puppets in a simulated Wayang Kulit Kelantan performance. This experiment was carried out in University Putra Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, in the year 2011. The captured data was then transferred into a virtual Wayang Kulit Kelantan performance to simulate its shadow images.

Multiculturalism, cosmopolitanism, and making heritage in Malaysia: a view from the historic cities of the Straits of Malacca

Based on the ‘universal’ values of economic development, democratic governance and cultural diversity promoted by UNESCO, the official policy of the Federation of Malaysia, known as Wawasan 2020 (Vision 2020), promotes modernization with an emphasis on democracy, tolerance, culture and economic development, and asserts the multicultural character of Malaysian society while upholding the peaceful coexistence of its three largest communities (Malays, Chinese and Indians). The joint inscription of the two historic Straits cities of Melaka and George Town on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2008 was a reaffirmation of that policy. Our study illustrates the construction of this social model through the heritage process which was based on the tangible as well as the intangible heritage of the different ethnic groups that make up the Malaysian nation. Dubbed the ‘Rainbow Nation’ by the British during the colonial era, postcolonial Malaysia has reappropriated the label to construct its present and future identity. We focus on the agency of civil society activists, government officials and international experts in the process that mobilised, in turn, the values of nationalism and internationalism, communitarianism and multiculturalism, and universalism and cosmopolitanism.

Tragedy of the commons: commercialization of cultural heritage in Malaysia

Tragedy of the commons: commercialization of cultural heritage in Malaysia

Re-adaptation of Malay House Thermal Comfort Design Elements into Modern Building Elements – Case Study of Selangor Traditional Malay House & Low Energy Building in Malaysia

The traditional Malay house is one of the richest components of Malay' s cultural heritage in Malaysia. Generally, the traditional Malay house is a reflection of the Malay community' s way of living. With greater global awareness of the environment and a renewed perspective on contemporary Malaysian architecture, architects and designers are once again looking for tropical solutions in building design. One of the main characteristics of traditional Malay house is that they are designed with a deep understanding and respect for nature, but this design- with-nature approach is no longer found in the modern buildings. The purpose is therefore to study the thermal comfort design elements such as building orientation, interior layout space, natural ventilation and lighting, window designs, and stack effect on the roof design. The investigation was carried out through observations, interviews and some research visits. A comprehensive research was accomplished on the adaptation of Malay house architecture elements with selected the Selangor traditional Malay house as the key study and one modern building which is the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology & Water (MEGTW) building, Putrajaya. This study attempts to have recorded information for those who are interested and for the future generation because the traditional Malay house was evolved by the Malays over generations, adapting to their needs, culture and environment. This study is crucial to revive the awareness in the understanding and appreciation of the technique of thermal comfort design elements of traditional Malay house adapted into modern building design.

Sports archives in Malaysia: the challenges and the way forward

Malaysia is considered a young independent nation with an ambitious vision of becoming a developed nation by the year under the Government's strategic Vision 2020 plan. In Malaysia, sport is a vital tool for uniting its multi-religious, multi-racial and multi-cultural people, and inspiring the young towards a more balanced and healthy lifestyle. With its population more focused on the present and the future, and on academic rather than sporting achievements, one of the main challenges for archives, particularly in sport, is to overcome the limited interest in history and lack of awareness of the necessity of archiving. The main way forward is by educating people to change their ‘use and discard’ mentality and realise the importance of long-term or permanent preservation of information and records which will preserve history and protect Malaysia's heritage in sports. The Olympic Council of Malaysia, the National Archives Malaysia and the Government of Malaysia, through the Ministry of Youth and Spor...