Kedah report (checked)

METHODS OF DOCUMENTATION AND MEASURED
DRAWINGS (ARC60305)
RUMAH SUNGAI ULAR, KULIM
&
SURAU HAJI ABDUL RAHMAN BIN ABDULLAH
KEDAH STATE MUSEUM, LEBUHRAYA DARUL AMAN, KAMPUNG LUBOK PERINGGI, 05150
ALOR SETAR, KEDAH
JANUARY - MARCH 2017

DECLARATION OF SUBMISSION
RUMAH SUNGAI ULAR & SURAU HAJI ABDUL RAHMAN BIN
ABDULLAH
We, Team Kedah Traditional House as a group, hereby declare that all content, information and works within this
report is of original sources and are appropriately referenced when necessary. Written permission has been granted by
any copyright holders therefore the copyright laws are not compromised.
This assessment is the record proof of our completion for this project and holds relevant information necessary to the
project. With this declaration, we affirm that this report of data and information carried out during the field trip to Kedah
State Museum from the date 20th January 2017 to 25th January 2017 is submitted for the module Methods of
Documentation and Measured Drawing (ARC60305/ARC1215) of the course Bachelor of Science (Honours) in
Architecture from Taylor’s University to obtain 5 credits for Practicum 1.
KEDAHSTATEMUSEUM,LEBUHRAYADARULAMAN,KAMPUNGLUBOKPERINGGI,05150ALORSETAR,KEDAH
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It is a group effort by:
Wilson Tan Wui Xiang 0321128 (Team Leader)
Angela Wee Kah Man 0322970
Chang Huey Yi 0322898
Cham Zheng Chee 0322317
Cicilia Solomon 0326877
Cindy Lee Zi Ying 0320435
Dana Kan Jia Torng 0323648
Hong Shi Lik 0322081
Iddin Hafizi Bin Ahzali 0325595
Ignatius Jee Shao Iang 0320069
Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Architecture)
February 2017
Taylor’s University
Supervised by:
Dr. Nor Hayati Hussain
Mr. Mohamed Rizal Mohamed
Melvyn Poh Ern Meng 0322653
Mohammad Daniel Bin Mazlan 0321409
Muhammad Faidh Bin Mohamad Nawawi 0323712
Muhammad Mirza Qayyum Bin Mohd Shariff 0324031
Ng Jer Vain 0326969
Ng Ji Yann 0323713
Ng Kwang Zhou 0322802
Ong Von Wan 0323364
Quinn Liew Min Yee 0324525
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ABSTRACT
Based on the module, Methods of Documentation and Measured Drawings, we were tasked to collect data and
information of our given building regarding its culture, history, construction and architecture. In a group of 19 students,
we have measured, drawn, and researched on our buildings, the Traditional House and Traditional Surau. This report
includes the data collected throughout our 6 days of on-site fieldwork for both the Traditional House and Surau located
at Kedah State Museum. The two buildings are located in the premises of the museum as they were donations to the
museum by the owners of the respective buildings.
The Traditional House is known as Rumah Sungai Ular previously located in Kulim. The house was donated by owner
Encik Saman Bin Saad. It is currently closed to public and only used for research purposes. It showcases the typical
traditional house found in Kedah, from the details and layout of the building to the tools and furniture.
The Traditional Surau is known as Surau Haji Abdul Rahman Bin Abdullah, this building was originally a house before
the owner decided to teach the Al-Quran, thus transformed the house into a surau. After donating it to the museum, it
still functions as it is to the public.
Both buildings have similar style in construction and layout. They were both deconstructed on their previous site and
reconstructed in the premises of the museum.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The assignment could not have been made possible without the grace and guidance of our tutors and the hard work
and cooperation from our fellow teammates. Not to mention many others who have helped guide and contributed to the
completion of this assignment. So, as Team Kedah Traditional House, we would like to take this opportunity to formally
express our sincere gratitude to all that have supported and facilitated us both directly and indirectly.
First and foremost, a very heartfelt appreciation to our module coordinator and tutor that have given us this opportunity
to work together and experience this assignment. To our module coordinator, Dr. Nor Hayati Hussain and all that aided
with the coordination of this module, we thank you for preparing this module for us to further develop our skills with
practice and experience. Our sincere gratitude to our tutor, Mr. Mohamed Rizal Mohamed for his guidance and
considerations throughout the duration of the assignment.
And extending our thanks, we wish the best to the owners of the buildings, Encik Saman Bin Saad and Dato’ Mursyid
Diraja Haji Abdul Rahman Bin Abdullah for granting us this opportunity to measure and experience the buildings. To the
director of the museum, for allowing us permission to research and document the buildings in so little notice and under
such rushed circumstances. To En Zulkifli, who provided us with the interview to get more insight and knowledge on the
respective buildings. And to all other staff members that provided us with any kind of gestures that eased our burden.
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TABLEOFCONTENTS
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PAGE
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ix-xxviii
1
2-3
4
5-13
14
15
16
17-24
25-30
31-39
40-48
49-55
TOPIC
Declaration of Submission
Abstract
Acknowledgements
Table of Contents
List of Figures
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Introduction to Research
1.2 Aims and Objectives
1.3 Equipment and Methodology
1.4 Limitations
1.5 Significance of Study
Chapter 2: Culture & History
2.1 History and Culture of Malaysia
2.2 History of Malay Architecture
2.3 The Culture of Malay Architecture
2.4 History & the Culture of Kedah
2.5 History & the Culture of Alor Setar

57-67
68-73
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80-86
87-105
106-113
114-120
121-127
128
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142-144
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TABLEOFCONTENTS
TOPIC
Chapter 3: Architecture & Design
3.1 Site Context
3.2 Orientation of the Buildings
3.3 Design Concept
3.4 Spatial Organisation & Spatial Experience
3.5 Design Feature
3.6 Ornamentation & Details
3.7 Visual Experience
3.8 Comparison Analysis
Chapter 4: Building Materials
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Tools & Materials for Construction
4.3 Traditional System for Measurements
4.4 Building Material - Timber
4.5 Building Material - Atap Rumbia
4.6 Building Material - Iron Bar
4.7 Building Material - Concrete
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TABLEOFCONTENTS
TOPIC
Chapter 5: Building Constructions
5.1 Basic Construction and Structure of a Malay House
5.2 Foundation / Column Construction
5.3 Timber Floor System
5.4 Wall System
5.5 Roof Construction
5.6 Staircase Construction
5.7 Windows
5.8 Doors
Chapter 6: Defects and Dilapidations
6.1 Timber Defects
6.2 Column Defects
6.3 Woodcarving Defects
6.4 Window Defects
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TABLEOFCONTENTS
TOPIC
6.5 Roof Defects
6.6 Staircase Defects
Chapter 7: Conclusion
7.1 Reflections
7.2 References
7.3 Glossary
7.4 Appendices
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183-186
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LISTOFFIGURES
CHAPTER 1
FIGURE
Figure 1.1 Bosch GLM 80 Professional Digital Laser Distance Meter (Bosch, 2017)
Figure 1.3 8-meter measuring tape (Stanley, 2017)
Figure 1.4 R 60 Professional Tool (Bosch, 2017)
Figure 1.5 Canon DSLR with Stand (Canon, 2017)
Figure 1.6 Ball of string (Dreamstime, 2017)
Figure 1.7 Foldable ladder (Pepperfry, 2017)
Figure 1.8 Extension ladder (Werner, 2017)
Figure 1.9 Platform Crane (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 1.10 Measuring with crane (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 1.11 Measuring with ladder (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 1.12 Measuring with measuring tape (Iddin, 2017)
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CHAPTER 2
FIGURE
Figure 2.1: The way of living of the past. (prepcue, 2017)
Figure 2.2: The strategic spot at Malacca brought success to Srivijaya. (konfrontasi, 2017)
Figure 2.3: Parameswara and his followers exploring the foreign land, which is named Malacca after that.
(kttahun5sksl, 2017)
Figure 2.4: Portuguese was defeated by the force of Johor and Dutch. (holidaymapq, 2017)
Figure 2.5: Francis Light colonized Penang and his contribution has made Penang one of the strategic locations for
trading purposes. (surakit, 2017)
Figure 2.6: Rubber estate was one of the rising industry during the colonization of British. (Iumwmalaysianstudies,
2017)
Figure 2.7: Japanese entered Malaya with great power. They’ve shown cruelty and were constantly spreading
propaganda. (mahaguru, 2017)
Figure 2.8: Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime Minister during Malaysia’s Independence Day. (merpatiputih88,
2017)
Figure 2.9: The major racial argument and violence. (pinterest, 2017)
Figure 2.10: The iconic Twin Tower located at Kuala Lumpur. (inspireholidays, 2017)
Figure 2.11: Malaysia, a country filled with multicultural individuals that lived in peace and harmony. (emaze, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 2.12: The warriors of the country, that protected the land shall always be remembered, with the build of
National Monument. (oxfordpoetryelection, 2017)
Figure 2.13: The absence of boundaries around houses, openness and intimacy were still retained.
(srikanditunteja,2017)
Figure 2.14: The friendly environment, that allows people to visit one another freely. (remembersingapore, 2017)
Figure 2.15: A basic shelter to complement the simple living without neglecting the consideration of the
environmental factors.(sda-architect,2017)
Figure 2.16: A conventional traditional Malay house is mainly supported using the post-and-beam system, which
can be seen clearly. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.17: The map above shows the Peninsular Malaysia and the definite location of each
states.(ngsoongwenn, 2017)
Figure 2.18 & 2.19: The basic design of a traditional malay house. (pinterest,2017) (flickriver, 2017)
Figure 2.20: Hardwood that are commonly used to build the house is cengal
wood.(manchestertimbermerchants, 2017)
Figure 2.21: Nipa palm leaves used to create atap roof. (dreamstime, 2017)
Figure 2.22 & 2.23: Examples of Rumah Dangau/Teratak. (pecidasase,2017)
Figure 2.24: Carvings and ornamentation that are incorporated in traditional Malay houses. (pinterest, 2017)
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Figure 2.25: Carvings that are used to decorate the house are usually inspired the natural environment. Flora
patterns are one of the commonly used patterns.(jadhomes, 2017)
Figure 2.26: The overall view of the Surau. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.27: The South Elevation of the Surau. The cylindrical shaped object is called the Beduk. It was used
during the prayers. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.28: The East Elevation of the house. The entrance was the staircase that leads the path towards the
Anjung.(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.29: The Rumah Ibu, which is also the space where family members rest. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.30 & 2.31: The surrounding environment of the traditional Malay houses are filled with vegetation.
(theodora, 2017) (cheeseburgerbuddha, 2017)
Figure 2.32: The well serves as an essential feature to the lives of the people, serving water for their daily
usage. (123rf, 2017)
Figure 2.33: The joist that contributes to the support of the floorboards and the weight of the building. (Quinn,
2017)
Figure 2.34: The layer of atap leaves are tied up together and used to attached with the roof. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.35: The steep roof with the rafters at the back of it supporting the whole roof structure. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.36: The base of the columns are made up of concrete, with timber post to support and elevate the floor
level. (Quinn, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 2.37: The staircase that leads to front and back entrances of the house. The form of the house that
responds to the climate conditions is also shown. (eficienciaenergtica, 2017)
Figure 2.38: The clay water vessel (Tempayan) (kaskus, 2017)
Figure 2.39: The water gourd (Gayong) (northerndipper, 2017)
Figure 2.40: The division of space in a traditional Malay House.(archfullstop, 2017)
Figure 2.41: The possibilities and flexibility of expanding the traditional Malay house. (shirleysia-dissertation,
2017)
Figure 2.42: The indication of the staircase leading to the Anjung (Covered Porch). (rumahkereda, 2017)
Figure 2.43: The Serambi fits as a welcoming space for visitors. (keywordsking, 2017)
Figure 2.44: The Rumah Ibu is where the privacy of the family members are retained. (adesibank, 2017)
Figure 2.45: The stairway to acces the roof attic.(rumahwarisanrabiahmatklebangbesar, 2017)
Figure 2.46: The roof attic.(ujie, 2017)
Figure 2.47: The kitchen (kosmo, 2017)
Figure 2.48: The Pelantar (An open platform) (mycuteshoppe, 2017)
Figure 2.49: An extension at the kitchen area. (mycuteshoppe, 2017)
Figure 2.50: An ample space under the house to store items. (Quinn,2017)
Figure 2.51: An example of a sugar cane clamp stored under the house, utilizing the empty spaces as a
storage. (Quinn, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 2.52 : Kedah state flag. (libra1002, 2017)
Figure 2.53 : Maps of Kedah. (instant2travel, 2017).
Figure 2.54 : Pedu Lake of Kedah. (flickr, 2017)
Figure 2.55 : Graph of Kedah climate throughout the year. (en.climate-data.org, 2017)
Figure 2.56 : Picture show paddy field of Kedah. (prezi, 2017)
Figure 2.57 : Traditional Malay House around Malaysia.(prezi, 2017)
Figure 2.58 : Traditional trading in Malaysia. (pinterest, 2017)
Figure 2.59 : Picture shown is Gagak Sura. (ipedr, 2017)
Figure 2.60 : Picture shown flora craving on wood. (pinterest, 2017)
Figure 2.61 : Picture shown calligraphy craving. (prophetpbuh, 2017)
Figure 2.62 : Picture shown geomertry style craving. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.63 : Picture shown cosmos theme on the wood craving. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.64 : View of Alor Setar city. (anotherbrickinwall, 2017)
Figure 2.65 : Climate of Alor Setar during the day. (tripmondo, 2017)
Figure 2.66 : Table shown table of ethnic group in Kedah. (pinterest, 2017)
Figure 2.67 : Picture shown was Sultan Abdul Hamid Shah. (kungfukindom, 2017)
Figure 2.68 : Picture shown is Tradtional Silat. (members, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 2.69 : Ornament of Traditional Malay House. (pinterest, 2017)
Figure 2.70 : Common Malay House in Kedah. (ilusidanfantasi, 2017)
Figure 2.71 : Picture shown traditional Malay House roofing. (aldeeny, 2017)
Figure 2.72 : Picture shown traditional support construction of roof. (prezi, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 3.1: Aerial view of the site surrounding. The site is facing to Darul Aiman Highway, sitting by the banks of
Kedah River. (GoogleMap, 2017)
Figure 3.2: Aerial view of the site surrounding. The site is facing to Darul Aiman Highway, sitting by the banks
of Kedah River. (GoogleMap, 2017)
Figure 3.3: The aerial view of the stadium. (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.4: Entrance view of the stadium.(Google, 2017)
Figure 3.5: The elevation of Leong Say Tong. (Google , 2017)
Figure 3.6 : The entrance view of the temple. (GoogleMap, 2017)
Figure 3.7: Interior of the temple. (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.8: MBAS swimming pool. (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.9: Kedah State Museum is a 3 storey high building. (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.10 : Front facade of PSMCK (GoogleMap, 2017)
Figure 3.11: Palm trees behind Kedah house. (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.12 : Mango tree at the site compound. (Ng, 2017)
Figure 3.13 : Banana trees beside the Kedah house. (Ng, 2017)
Figure 3.14 : Banana trees beside the Kedah house. (Ng, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 3.15 : Kampong’s orientation. ( Google, 2017)
Figure 3.16 : Kampong’s organic layout. ( Google, 2017)
Figure 3.17 : An example of a kampong communal activity being held. (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.18 : Aerial view of the Qa’bah ( Google, 2017)
Figure 3.19 : Location of Mecca (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.20 : Surau in Kampong. (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.21 : Surau Haji Abdul Rahman. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.22 (Top) : Aerial View of the site (Google map, 2017)
Figure 3.23 (Bottom) : View of the buildings from parking lot (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.24 : Pureness of Materials ( Quinn, 2017 )
Figure 3.25 : Vernacular Architecture ( Quinn, 2017 )
Figure 3.26 : Thermal Diagram.( Google, 2017 )
Figure 3.27 : Roof Details on Sheltering.( Iddin, 2017 )
Figure 3.28 : Air Circulation through the house (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.29 (Top) : Ventilation Ornamental Gaps (Google map, 2017)
Figure 3.30 (Bottom) : Ventilation on the Window (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.31 : Ventilation Ornament 1 (Quinn, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 3.34 : Example floor plan of Malay house from Negeri Sembilan (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.35 Floor plan of Kedah traditional house. (Measured Drawing Team Kedah Traditional House, 2017)
Figure 3.36 : Stairs leading up to the anjung. (Ng, 2017)
Figure 3.37 : Serambi Gantung. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.38 : The dim lighting in the room are achieved by lesser window and openings. (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.39 (Top) : Kitchen (Iddin,2017)
Figure 3.40 (Below) :Cooking utensil. (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.41 : East Side of the house (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.42 : East Side of the house (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.43 : West Side of the house (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.44 : South Side of the house (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.45 : North Side of the house (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.46 : Gable Screen ornament (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.47 : Roof Ornamental Detail(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.48 : Foundation of the House (Quinn, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 3.49 : Horizontal Wall (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.50 : Timber Wall Placing (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.51 : Windows at Traditional House (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.52 : Staircase from South Side of the House (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.53 : Bedroom Space and ambience (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.54 : Transom Window Details (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.55 : The wall lights in the house. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.56 : Examples of Furniture inside the house (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.57 : Example of Mosque Plan (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.58 : Muslim Daily Life Diagram (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.59 : East Side of Surau (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.60 : West Side of Surau (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.61 : South Side of Surau (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.62 : North Side of Surau (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.63 : Ventilation Carving detail (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.64 : Surau Interior Details (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.65 : The door knob on one of the doors in Surau. (Quinn, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 3.66 : Openings in the living area of the Surau. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.67 : Two shutters window in Kedah House. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.68 : Tebar layar on the roof. (Iddin,2017)
Figure 3.69 : The ornaments on the roof. (Iddin,2017)
Figure 3.70: The sunbeam motif on the gable screen. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.71 : Floral carvings on the staircase. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.72 : Floral carvings at the wall panel. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.73 : Ventilation Carving on the wall (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.74 : Window’s Ventilation (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.75 : Window’s Ventilation (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.76 : Deer head wall decoration in Kedah House. (Ng, 2017)
Figure 3.77 : Surau’s Roof (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.78 : House’s Roof (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.79 : Gable Screen Decoration (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.80 : Ornamental Ventilation (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.81 : Light Illusion in house (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.82 : Light Penetration details (Quinn, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 3.83 : Ceiling’s joist (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 3.84 : Flooring’s Joist (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.85 : Vernacular Architecture Details (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.86 : Surau Window’s view (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.87 : The design of Malay House varies from states to states in Peninsular Malaysia. (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.88 : Indoor view of the roof. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 3.89 : Typical Kedah Traditional House (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.90 : View of a Negeri Sembilan house type (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.91 : View of a Perak house type (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.92 : View of a Kelantan house type (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.93 : Example layout of Malay house in Malacca (Google, 2017)
Figure 3.94 : Example layout of Perak Malay House (Google, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 4.1 & Figure 4.2 : Ancient people chop down trees and transport the tress to site from forest
(Noenkcahyana,2012)
Figure 4.3 & Figure 4.4 : These buildings were not using any nails for construction but now a days, it stars to
corrode, therefore people used nails to protect both of this meaningful buildings (Quinn,2017)
Figure 4.5 & Figure 4.6 : Ancient people used Kapak and Parang when chop down trees (Asalsilat,2015)
Figure 4.7 & Figure 4.8 : The unit of measure in Depa system (Sastrabali,2016)
Figure 4.9 & Figure 4.10 : Exterior façade view of traditional Malay house and surau (Iddin,2017)
Figure 4.11 : Exterior post and lintel (Quinn,2017)
Figure 4.12 : Exterior Wall (Iddin,2017)
Figure 4.13 : Interior roof structure (Quinn,2017)
Figure 4.14 : Beautiful Ornaments on staircase (Iddin,2017)
Figure 4.15 : Exterior staircase ,Surau (Iddin,2017)
Figure 4.16 : Pasak known as nail but is made using wood .These technique ws used to interlock the steps with
the outer striger (Quinn,2017)
Figure 4.17 : Detail showing junction of tie beam, column and joist. The floor joist is jointed to the column
(Quinn,2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 4.18 : Ornaments help these buildings improvement air ventilation and the beauty of the house
(Iddin,2017)
Figure 4.19 & Figure 4.20 : Beduk who located at ground floor of the Malay traditional surau (Iddin,2017)
Figure 4.21 : Pokok Bemban (Alamendah.,2011)
Figure 4.22 : Pokok Buluh (Warisanpetani,2016)
Figure 4.23 : Pokok Rumbia (Learnmelanau,2011)
Figure 4.24 : Interior looks of Atap Rumbia (Quinn,2017)
Figure 4.25 : Exterior looks of Atap Rumbia (Quinn,2017)
Figure 4.26 : Worker ties all the daun Rumbia together with using Rotan. (Fenditazkirah,2013)
Figure 4.27 : Daun Rumbia basks in the sun (Amlubai-kerabat,2015)
Figure 4.28 : Iron bar was setting on window frame (Iddin,2017)
Figure 4.29 : Exposed Foundation (Iddin,2017)
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CHAPTER 5
FIGURE
Figure 5.1 : Basic Construction of Traditional House (Yuan, 1987)
Figure 5.2: The Setting up of a basic traditional Malay House Form (Yuan,1987)
Figure 5.3 : Construction process of traditional Malay House (memori-Kedah, 2017)
Figure 5.4: Concrete Footing and foundation of the two traditional buildings (Iddin,2017)
Figure 5.5: Placing of Column and Footing of Surau Haji Abdul Rahman Abdullah (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.6: Placing of Column and Footing of Sungai Ular House (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.7: Set up of Foundation formwork steps.(cgetechnology,2011)
Figure 5.8: Column Construction detail with steel rod connecting the footing sketch (Dana, 2017)
Figure 5.9: View upwards from lower ground of the timber joist system with floorboards laid across the joists
(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.10: Exposed joists and beams seen from below of Surau Haji Abdul Reahman Abdullah (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.11: Usage of round timber joists for the open-air “pelantar”(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.12: Connection details of nails for round timber joists (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.13: Usage of dowels to secure parts (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.14: Beam to Column Connection Detail with wedges sketch (Dana, 2017)
Figure 5.15: Basic Mortise and Tenon Joint detail sketch (Dana, 2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 5.16: Detail of Spacing of the joists resting upon the beam.in the traditional Sungai Ular House (Quinn,
2017)
Figure 5.17: Basic lap joint sketch (Dana, 2017)
Figure 5.18: An example of the post and beam being recessed to secure to one another (Dana, 2017)
Figure 5.19: Construction detail of Wall system and floor system (picrevise, 2017)
Figure 5.20: External wall view of Sungai Ular House (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.21: Side view of weatherboards on exterior wall (agung1501, 2014)
Figure 5.22: Kedah House showing its roof structure (Quinn,2017)
Figure 5.23: The surau with a close view of its roof (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.24: Queen post truss (Wikipedia,2007)
Figure 5.25: Queen post truss seen in the surau (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.26: A clear view of the layers consisting of purlins, principal rafters and the common rafters
(Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.27: Zoomed in view of the ties betwwen the atap layers (Quinn,2017)
Figure 5.28: A full view of the surau and its roof system (Quinn,2017)
Figure 5.29: The material used for the atap of both of the buildings (Quinn,2017)
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FIGURE
Figure 5.30 (Top left) : Construction details on the lowest layer roof, supported by the front columns (Qayyum,
2017)
Figure 5.31 (Top right) : The ridge board of the roof, connects two queen post truss along with the purlins
(Qayyum, 2017)
Figure 5.32 (Bottom left) : Additional detail highlighting the rafters underneath the roof eaves (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.33 (Bottom right) : Zoomed out view of the roof details with an additional beam (with ceiling fan)
supporting the structure (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.34: A perspective view of the staircase at the surau (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.35: Woodcarved stairs found just at the entrance to the house (Jiyann,2017)
Figure 5.36: Unexploded Axonometric of stairs at the surau (Measured Drawing Team Kedah Traditional
House,2017)
Figure 5.37: Exploded Axonometric of stairs at the surau, highlighting which joints should be connected
(Measured Drawing Team Kedah Traditional House,2017)
Figure 5.38: A hybrid of concrete and wood makes the staircase unique (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.39: The treenail (pasak) used to lock the joints in place (Quinn,2017)
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CHAPTER 5
FIGURE
Figure 5.40: Main Floor Plan of Sungai Ular House indicating the placement of windows and doors sketch
(Dana, 2017)
Figure 5.41: Main Floor Plan of Surau Haji Abdul Rahman Abdullah sketch (Dana, 2017)
Figure 5.42: Louvred window shutters in surau.(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.43: Louvred window Detail Drawing (Measured Drawing Team Kedah Traditional House ,2017)
Figure 5.44: Double casement windows.(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.45: Double casement window Detail Drawing (Measured Drawing Team Kedah Traditional House
,2017)
Figure 5.46: Double hinged door (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.47: Double Hinged door detail drawing (Measured Drawing Team Kedah Traditional House, 2017)
Figure 5.48: Sliding Door detail drawing (Measured Drawing Team Kedah Traditional House, 2017)
Figure 5.49: Door frame detail of the double hinged door (Zulkifli,1999)
Figure 5.50: Mortise and tenon joint detail (Zulkifl, 1999)
Figure 5.51: Mortise and tenon joint detail of the door frame (Zulkifli, 1999)
xxvii

LISTOFFIGURES
CHAPTER 6
FIGURE
Figure 6.1: The moulds from one of the pieces of wood under the floor boards (Jiyann,2017)
Figure 6.2: Some of the appearance defects of the wood used for both buildings (Jiyann,2017)
Figure 6.3: A zoomed in view of the deterioration some of the columns suffer (Quinn,2017)
Figure 6.4: Woodcarving defect (Iddin,2017)
Figure 6.5: View of the remains of one of the broken windows (Dana,2017)
Figure 6.6: The rusting found on the iron bars at the interior side of the window (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 6.7: The gaping hole found on the atap (Quinn,2017)
xxviii

CHAPTER1:INTRODUCTION
1.1 INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH
The module, Methods of Documentation and Measured Drawings for the course Bachelor of Science (Honours) in
Architecture is the basis for this assignment. The module lasts 2 months from 9th January to 9th March 2017 and
involves students of semester 2 and semester 3 of Bsc(Hons) in Architecture. The module consists of 3 parts of
projects comprising of different aspects to the said documentation and drawings.
The module synopsis is as follows:
“The subject aims to develop an understanding of the principles of building preservation/conservation and the methods of
recording it in three documentation methods; measured drawings, written documentation and photographic documentation. The
ideas of application and management of architectural historic documentation will be presented as part of the overall knowledge
of building preservation/conservation. For measured drawings, students are to document historically and architecturally
significant buildings in the form of as-built drawings. The task requires 10 to 20 students per group that involve fieldworks
consisting of measuring techniques such as photographing, sketching, using of theodolite and measuring tapes. The outcomes
of the subject are collection of plans, section, elevations, details and axonometric views / models; complemented with a report
that explains about the background, history, concept, style construction techniques and ornamentation of the building.”
2

This assignment, commenced by a team of 19 students and a tutor, Mr. Mohamed Rizal Mohamed. As a compulsory
requirement for the module, the team must attend an on-site field trip to measure and document two traditional Kedah
buildings in the facility of the Kedah State Museum in Alor Setar, Kedah for a duration of 6 days from 20th – 25th
January 2017.
This report is the requirement of Project 2: Building Report and Photobook, and it is the product of the research and
documentation brought upon the two Kedah traditional buildings throughout the duration of this assignment. It
consists of measured drawings, pictures, references and written text of research based on external sources, the site-
visit and discussions regarding the assignment guidelines.
Our scope of research is the culture and history of the Kedah traditional buildings and its relationship to the
architecture and construction. The main topics of our research are Culture and History, Architecture and Design, and
Building Construction. The report will closely highlight the importance of each topics and how they affect each other in
various aspects.
3

1.1 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
This assignment aims to introduce several methods of documenting historic structures to preserve an accurate
record of historic properties for research or preservation purposes, and introduce basic preparation of measured
drawings of a building or structure to prescribed standard. Through the assignments, students are able to acquire
hands on experience in the process of documenting historically and culturally significant buildings with the process of
manual measuring, technical drawings, in-depth research and model making.
This report showcases important information regarding the traditional Kedah buildings in various aspects. The focus
of the report is to analyse the relationship of its culture and history, architecture and design, and building
construction.
The aims of the assignment is as follow:-
● To produce sketches as proof of individual’s in-depth understanding of the building
● To accurately measure the buildings and produce technical drawings based on the measurements as it is.
● To produce a report that compiles all the information gathered from research on the buildings
● To produce a video as a documentation of the building
● To produce a scaled model based on the documentations of the buildings
The report aims to answer the following questions regarding how does the culture and history affect the function and
features of the buildings; what significance does the buildings show in architectural and design aspects; what are the
functions and types of the construction details; how do the social classes affect the materials and where are they
acquired.
4

1.3 EQUIPMENTANDMETHODOLOGY
EQUIPMENT
Several tools and equipment are used for various purposes, such as measuring or providing access to complete the
process of measuring and documentation.
Bosch GLM 80 Professional Digital Laser Distance Meter
This device has played an important role in the measuring and documentation of this project. This is a laser equipped
device that is capable of measuring distances more efficiently and accurately. It is very useful for situations when the
measured distance is not reachable or accessible by measuring tape. With various settings available, the device can
measure heights of the roof or identify the distance between rafters. With the right mode, it can also measure angles.
The accuracy of the device is up to 3 decimal points.
Figure 1.1 Bosch GLM 80 Professional Digital
Laser Distance Meter (Bosch, 2017)
5

Measuring Tape
Measuring tapes are essential in any type of measurements involving building construction. It is an efficient tool that
can be deployed quickly to get fast measurements. Measuring tapes are useful for measuring moderate distances of
up to 20 meters and further distances of up to 100 meters depending on the type of measuring tape. For long
distances, it is operated by 2 people as one end is placed at the starting edge and the other for the reading to get
accurate measurements. It has measurement readings in centimeters and feet.
Figure 1.2 100-meter measuring tape (Komelon,
2017)
Figure 1.3 8-meter measuring tape (Stanley,
2017)
6

Level Tool (R60Professional Set)
The level tool is provided as a set together with the laser distance
meter. The laser distance meter is kept in the level tool and can
be removed easily. The level tool is required to ensure that
measurements are aligned and straight and not angled.
DSLR Camera and Tripod Stand
The camera is an essential tool in the process of documenting.
The camera needs to provide clear image that accurately depicts
the features and elements of the building. It is used for the
photobook compilation and video required from the assignments.
The pictures are also important for the detailing used in the
drawings.
String
The string has many functions for the measurements. Among the
functions of string are, to set a boundary of measurement, to
measure curved surfaces, to check alignments and to use as a
marker on-site.
Figure 1.4 R 60 Professional Tool (Bosch, 2017)
Figure 1.5 Canon DSLR with Stand (Canon,
2017)
Figure 1.6 Ball of string (Dreamstime, 2017)
7

Extendable Ladder / Multi–purpose Ladder
Ladder provides vertical access to unreachable heights. It is used to ease measurements that are high above
and could not be reached by human height. The ladder goes up to 3 meters depending on type.
Figure 1.7 Foldable ladder (Pepperfry,
2017)
Figure 1.8 Extension ladder (Werner,
2017)
8

Crane
A crane was rented for a day during our on-site fieldwork. The crane provides very high elevations to measure
elements unreachable without proper equipment. It is used to measure elements on the roof.
Figure 1.9 Platform Crane (Iddin, 2017)
9

METHODOLOGY
Methodology is important to get accurate measurements and to ensure the most efficient workforce. Therefore,
several methods were used to measure and document the building appropriately.
Traditional Measuring Technique
To measure each measurement manually on-site. The equipment used for this method were measuring tape,
laser distance meter, string, ladder, level tool and crane. It is to use any means necessary to measure an
element physically.
Figure 1.10 Measuring with crane (Iddin,
2017)
Figure 1.11 Measuring
with ladder (Iddin, 2017)
Figure 1.12 Measuring with measuring
tape (Iddin, 2017)
10

Taking Photos
Taking photos with the camera is essential for the details of ornamentations. It will be too much of an effort to
measure every single detail on a single ornament. Instead, taking a photo and tracing them on software then
scaling them is more efficient and appropriate.
On-Site Strategy
In our situation where we had to measure two buildings, namely Rumah Sungai Ular and Surau Haji Abdul
Rahman Bin Abdullah. Therefore, we have separated our team to 3 groups with one photographer. The result is
having 7-8 people measuring for buildings in 2 groups with roles such as, plans, elevation and section. And a
group of 3 in charge of site context around the site. At the end of each measuring session, we discussed our
measurements to ensure they are accurate.
Software Programs
The methods we used for producing the technical drawing is through software programs such as AutoCAD. This
is a much more effective method compared to manual drawings. As some team members are from semester 2,
there are some lack of experience in that aspect.
11

Literature Research
We have used several methods for researching the information and data regarding the buildings. The methods
include, using the internet, researching books, and interviews.
On the internet, we were able to find brief information regarding the culture and architecture of traditional houses
in general. We were also able to get information on the construction details of the buildings. All sources are
properly referenced for copyright laws.
Through the library, we were able to get detail information about traditional houses in Kedah, including culture,
context and construction. The books are referenced appropriately.
During our site visit, we were able to interview an officer, En Zulkifli with knowledge on the building. We were
able to get the much-needed history of the buildings that could not be found elsewhere.
12

Model-making
Model-making is an essential part towards documenting the buildings. The models provide a solid representation
that gives the viewers freedom of perspective. To make the to-scale model, there are a few methods to consider
and execute.
The main method used is to laser cut the materials for assembly with a laser cutting machine. The AutoCAD
drawings are used as the machine’s reference. In the situations where laser cut is not efficient or effective for an
element of the model, manual cutting technique with pen knife is used.
Upon completion of cutting, the model is assembled by hand with aid of binding materials. Much precaution is
taken during the assembly process.
13

1.4 LIMITATIONS
RANDOMERROR
Also known as human error is the situation when an individual did not retrieve an accurate measurement. These
errors can be caused by, wrong eye position, individual carelessness, and other external factors. To avoid this
situation, we have checked our measurements multiple times to achieve the most accurate result.
LACK OF INFORMATION
As our team was put on the spot to measure these buildings due to a change of site, we did not do prior
research before the site visit. Also, the research of the buildings hit a snag when we were unable to get any
details pertaining to the history of the building from all the sources. We were only able to get a brief history of
both the buildings through the interview.
14

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY
The purpose of this report is to showcase and highlight the significance of Rumah Sungai Ular and Surau Haji
Abdul Rahman Bin Abdullah in various aspects, mainly its cultural significance, its relationship with architecture,
and the uniqueness of building construction. The report consists of information regarding the buildings and the
influences such as society, economy, politics and site. These information and data are also purposed to preserve
the recorded cultural and historical significance of the buildings.
Furthermore, this study gave us a precious insight of the cultural significance of these buildings. And provided us
with profound knowledge regarding every detail we have studied upon. By documenting our research, it is with
our regards that we are able to provide more people to have access to knowledge about these buildings and the
architectural style in general. Also, to spread knowledge of the culture and daily activities of the traditional Malay
lifestyle in hopes of more awareness to better understand and appreciate the traditional houses of Malaysia.
The study includes appropriate drawings, pictures, illustrations, video, and report to provide the most in-depth
information that rediscovers the beauty of traditional Malay houses in Malaysia.
15

2.1HISTORY&CULTUREOFMALAYSIA
HISTORYOFMALAYSIA
Figure 2.1: The way of living of the past.
(prepcue, 2017)
Ancient times (8000B.C-3rdCenturyAD)
The arrival of stone-age hunters and gatherers was the pioneer that step
foot in Malaya. Farmers were involved in agriculture activities. Bronze
and iron were the essence to the materials of farming tools. People
settled along the rivers, bringing fishing and growing crops partly into
their lives. In the North, Kedah was very happening as it was highly
civilized and trace of influences from India through trade became
apparent. Buddhism and Hinduism were introduced as well.
Figure 2.2: The strategic spot at Malacca
brought success to Srivijaya. (konfrontasi,
2017)
Srivijaya (7thCentury-13thCentury)
Domination from the state of Srivijaya arose, controlling the coast of
Malay Peninsular. Trades with India and China caused the Malacca
straits to be ruled. Srivijaya was at it’s peak until the 11th century. It
went downfall after it’s power declined.
17

Figure 2.3: Parameswara and his followers
exploring the foreign land, which is named
Malacca after that. (kttahun5sksl, 2017)
Malacca (14thCentury-1511)
A great leader, Parameswara and his followers discovered the land
Melaka. Malacca was filled with power and wealth due to the
tradings with Arab, Chinese and Indian. It brought attention to the
Portuguese causing the fall of Malacca.
Figure 2.4: Portuguese was defeated by the force
of Johor and Dutch. (holidaymapq, 2017)
Johor and The Dutch (16th Century-
17thCentury)
The collaboration between Johor and the Dutch has led them to a
successful domination towards Malacca. Portuguese was defeated
and replaced. In the 17th century, the Dutch wiped out the other
European area.It was a glorious period of time for the Dutch and
Johor, as their power came together. In 1699, Sulatan Mahmud was
assassinated and marks the end of Johor power.
18

The Colonization of British (18thCentury)
In 1786, Francis Light came into Penang and found Georgetown. In 1824, the Dutch
surrendered Malacca to the British. The population of the states were rapidly
increasing due to the entering of Chinese and Indian workers. Sarawak was also
controlled by British and their territory expanded.
`
Figure 2.5: Francis Light colonized Penang and his contribution has made Penang
one of the strategic locations for trading purposes. (surakit, 2017)
Figure 2.6: Rubber estate was one of the rising industry
during the colonization of British. (Iumwmalaysianstudies,
2017)
British Malaya (1895-20thCentury)
British has expanded their influences throughout the whole
Malaya. Beginning of the 20th century, one of the new
industry has become one of the popular industries - the
rubber industry. In addition, the oil and tin industry has also
joined in. Malayan’s economy has improve immensely until
the 1930s where the economy falls. At that time, the
unemployment rate rose.
19

Figure 2.7: Japanese entered Malaya with great
power. They’ve shown cruelty and were
constantly spreading propaganda. (mahaguru,
2017)
The Rise of Japanese (1941-1942)
On the 8th of December 1941, the invasion of the Japanese towards the
Malay Peninsular occurred. The appearance of the Japanese has led
British to surrender themselves. Japanese troops has conquered most of
the lands and Chinese were treated badly.
Figure 2.8: Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime
Minister during Malaysia’s Independence Day.
(merpatiputih88, 2017)
Malaya Independence (1944-1965)
In 1944, Japanese was defeated and British has decided to unify the
states in Malayan called the Malayan Union. Some of the people opposed
the idea of unifying the states. Many new parties was formed to take
action regarding the matter, and come out with a solution. In 1955, A
constitution for Malaya was prepare by the Reid Commission and Malaya
soon achieved independence on 31st August 1957. The first prime
minister was Tunku Abdul Rahman. In 1963, Singapore Sarawak and
Sbah joined Malaya. However in 1965, Singapore was separated.
20

Figure 2.9: The major racial argument and
violence. (pinterest, 2017)
The Tragedy (1960-1969)
In the 1960s, there was a racial incident whereby the Malays and Non-
Malays wasn’t in peace. The unsatisfactory between races has caused
arguments and violence in May 1969. On the 13th May 1969, the supporters
of the opposition were celebrating their success while the supporters of
governing parties were against the oppositions and all the difference in
standings led to two days of violence. After the incident, a declaration
regarding the state of emergency and also the suspension of parliament was
made.
Figure 2.10: The iconic Twin Tower located at
Kuala Lumpur. (inspireholidays, 2017)
Modern Malaysia (1971-1991)
In 1971, the parliament was progressively reconvened. Malaysian
government restructured themselves, and incorporated new economic
policies. Since then, Malaysia has improving and turning into a country that
was filled with rich agriculture and industrial. In 1991, a new development
policy was implemented.
21

Malaysia, filled with rich historical and cultural
background, undergone a journey with multiple
encounter with the foreigners, that has made us known
to a widespread of exposure towards the outside world,
that made us accepting, being able to tolerate, and
stand as one regardless of where we’ve come from, that
has lived in peace and strive towards the known and
unknown that are ahead of us together. As the citizen of
Malaysia, all the great fights and remarkable
contributions by the people cannot be forgotten. In fact,
it has to be revisited to remind us who we are, and what
we’re capable of. In terms of the architectural aspects,
we begin from the old days, where the natural
environment became inspirations and resources to
survival purposes, to new creations, to a soulful shelter.
We trace back to the traditional Malay houses, going
back to the basics, and rediscover the values and ideas
behind these buildings.
Figure 2.11: Malaysia, a country filled with multicultural
individuals that lived in peace and harmony. (emaze,
2017)
Figure 2.12: The warriors of the country, that protected
the land shall always be remembered, with the build of
National Monument. (oxfordpoetryelection, 2017)
22

CULTURE OF MALAYSIA
Figure 2.13: The absence of boundaries around houses,
openness and intimacy were still retained.
(srikanditunteja,2017)
Figure 2.14: The friendly environment, that allows people to
visit one another freely. (remembersingapore, 2017)
The cultural background of the people are always
reflected in vernacular architecture, by understanding the
interaction that speaks for itself. In the past, the
neighborhood is always filled with people from all races.
Houses were always spread out in a specific zone with
vegetation surrounding the houses. There is a culture of
people visiting neighboring houses, sharing stories,
carrying out small talks or even helping out one another. It
was a simple life that people were living in. Houses were
located nearby with one another. Thus, even though it
was individual houses spread on a coverage of an area,
but the way of living is open and intimate. There wasn’t
any boundary restricting each family’s spaces back then.
People were more closer together, by being able to see
whats going on in the surrounding and without having
barriers in between. It was a friendly environment that was
reflected by the orientation of houses, where everyone in
the neighborhood is included.
23

In terms of the structural aspect, the house is raised by
multiple linear post. With it’s condition being raised, the
drainage system of the kitchen in traditional Malay houses
becomes an addition to the nourishment of the surrounding
vegetation. Some facilities are located outside the house,
such as the well and the toilet that reflects the Malay
building culture. There are a lot of daily life routines that
affects the functionality inside the house.For example, the
highly ventilated roof is sometimes used as the space to dry
dishes. Every element in this concept of a traditional Malay
house allowed us to understand the people, especially
people from the past that were living in a basic lifestyle,
making full use of the spaces in the house, fulfilling multiple
or specific functions, It shows how the house is constructed
in a way where every design elements is essential and
contributes to fit the needs of the people and a certain
culture or social aspects.
It wasn’t about modernizing the lifestyles of the people in
the past, or acknowledging how much has the financial
success that we have achieved, but the reasons to persist
the traditional form of design and construction that are more
noticeable.
Figure 2.15: A basic shelter to complement the simple
living without neglecting the consideration of the
environmental factors. (sda-architect,2017)
24

2.2HISTORYOFMALAYARCHITECTURE
Figure 2.16: A conventional traditional Malay house is mainly
supported using the post-and-beam system, which can be
seen clearly. (Quinn, 2017)
The Malay vernacular architecture in Malaysia established
by the Malay race has created authentic houses that has
reflected the life of Malay culture. The traditional Malay
houses that can be seen signifies the early progression of
basic houses.The idea of public and private spaces weren’t
the considerations to design a house. Their focus isn’t about
the architectural elements, such as the doors or walls. Thus,
the spatial quality of the spaces in traditional Malay houses
was not put into attention. The most apparent structure that
can be seen in a traditional Malay house is the post-and-
beam support system. It was defined by the positioning of
the post, the raise of floor level against the ground and the
construction method done by wood. In South East Asia
countries, similar elements like the raised floor level, gable
roofs, and also linear posts can be found too. This shows
how the Malay vernacular architecture is a representation of
the beginning of the architectural styles in the South East
Asia region.The history of the traditional Malay house
shares the same features, elements and structure among
the other similar houses in South East Asia countries. For
example, countries like Thailand and Indonesia also can
find these similar concepts of a traditional Malay houses.
25

Traditional Malay houses are similar to one another,
but it comes with a little variation based on the different
parts of Peninsular Malaysia. The Malay vernacular
architecture has been modified with implementations of
new style from the exposure of the outside world,
countries like Indonesian, Siamese, Arab, British,
Dutch, Portuguese, Southern Chinese and more. For
example, In the 15th century, it was the period when a
large numbers of Chinese laborers arrived and worked
in Selangor, Perak as well as Pahang.
Figure 2.17: The map above shows the Peninsular Malaysia
and the definite location of each states.(ngsoongwenn, 2017)
Figure 2.18 & 2.19: The basic design of a traditional malay house. (pinterest,2017) (flickriver, 2017)
The traditional Malay house building style was first brought in by a Chinese worker, where he built an unique form of house
for the them to accommodate his basic design that still reminds us his intentions of designing the house.
26

Wood is the main material used to build building structures of a
traditional Malay house, including walls, doors, windows and more. Most
of the materials can be found in forest areas. At that time, Nipa palm,
Nibong, and swamp palms were being used for roof materials. Some of
these materials are split into banks to be used for the flooring as well.
Some of the traditional Malay uses the similar roof materials, but
corrugated iron has virtually replaced atap roof. In addition, Malay
houses has evolved and changed to suit people’s taste. For instance, the
use of furniture and the choice of walls height. But, the main layout
design of a Traditional Malay house remains the same: Rumah Ibu,
Rumah Dapur, Serambi, and Anjung. These are part the culture of a
traditional Malay house.
Figure 2.20: Hardwood that are commonly
used to build the house is cengal
wood.(manchestertimbermerchants, 2017)
Figure 2.21: Nipa palm leaves used to
create atap roof. (dreamstime, 2017)
Figure 2.22 & 2.23: Examples of Rumah Dangau/Teratak. (pecidasase,2017)
Rumah Dangau or Rumah Teratak is a
single-unit house and it is also the
earliest form of traditional Malay house.
It is rarely seen in Malaysia, but it can
still be found in rural areas. Rumah
Dangau / Teratak has only one single
main space and a compact kitchen area,
some Rumah Dangau / Teratak has a
porch extending from the building roof.
27

In the 19th century, traditional Malay houses in Malacca often use wood carvings to decorate their houses. In
addition, the staircase that are located in the front entrance were covered in art nouveau tiles. Traditional Malay
houses in Malacca shows multicultural history such as the Chinese-inspired courtyard and tiled staircase. Hence, it
influences the pattern of carvings and being incorporated in ornamentation design of aa traditional Malay house.
Figure 2.24: Carvings and ornamentation that are
incorporated in traditional Malay houses. (pinterest,
2017)
Figure 2.25: Carvings that are used to decorate the house
are usually inspired the natural environment. Flora patterns
are one of the commonly used patterns.(jadhomes, 2017)
28

HISTORY OF RUMAH DATO MURSYID DIRAJA HAJI ABDULRAHMANBIN ABDULLAH
(SURAU)
Figure 2.26: The overall view of the Surau.
(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.27: The South Elevation of the Surau.
The cylindrical shaped object is called the Beduk.
It was used during the prayers. (Quinn, 2017)
This surau is owned by Dato 'Mursyid Sultan, Haji Abdul
Rahman bin Abdullah, which is also known as Haji Abdul
Rahman Merbok. It was a traditional Malay house
originally, but the owner has decided to teach Al-Quran.
Hence, the owner transforms the Malay house into a
surau. The Sultan of Kedah awarded the title ‘Dato
'Mursyid Royal’ to the building owner because of his own
expertise in Islamic affairs.
The workers started the building construction of this Malay
house in 1939 and the building is completed in 1941. Since
the inhabitants of this house began in 1941, the house was
made as a place to teach al-Quran and religious books.
The local community often visit the house for the purpose
of studying the religious sciences until his death on 1
November 1986.
The home Dato Mursyid was awarded to the State
Museum Kedah in 1988 after a new house was built.
29

HISTORYOFRUMAHTRADISIONALKAMPUNGSUNGAI
ULAR,KULIM,KEDAH.
This traditional Malay house was named Rumah Sungai Ular, Kulim. The owner of the house was Encik Saman Bin
Saad. He gave the house to the Kedah State Museum on 19 September 1988 through the hands of the Tunku Abdul Jalil
Bin Tunku Thiauddin, Kulim District Officer. The house used to display tools and pictures that shows the lifestyle of the
people from the past. Present day, the house is no longer opened to public, but only open to students or any research
study purposes.
Figure 2.28: The East Elevation of the house. The
entrance was the staircase that leads the path towards
the Anjung.(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.29: The Rumah Ibu, which is also the space
where family members rest. (Quinn, 2017)
30

2.3 THE CULTURE OF MALAY ARCHITECTURE
MAIN FEATURES OF THE MALAY HOUSE
The traditional Malay house not only reflects the creativity and the aesthetics of the Malay Culture, but also meets their
socioeconomic, cultural and environmental needs.
Figure 2.30 & 2.31: The surrounding environment of the traditional Malay houses
are filled with vegetation. (theodora, 2017) (cheeseburgerbuddha, 2017)
The traditional Malay house
normally sets in a small
compound and the open spaces
are usually facing the front and
surrounded with vegetation.
Variety of fruit tress may pass
the edge of the building.
Figure 2.32: The well serves as an essential feature to the lives of the people, serving water for their daily usage. (123rf, 2017)
There is a well located at the back compound of the traditional Malay house for
drinking, washing as well as bathing.
31

Figure 2.33: The joist that contributes to the support of the
floorboards and the weight of the building. (Quinn, 2017)
The main design of all the traditional Malay House has its own
building construction method which allows the house to be easily
assemble and disassemble wherever or whenever necessary.
Another main feature of all the traditional Malay house is the
height of the building, steep sloping gable roof.
Traditional Malay house has roof that are covered with atap, which are light in weight and also a good thermal insulator made
from palm tree leaves. Atap roof cools down the interior spaces during the day and night, and it can release heat during
daytime. Besides that, the roof is fit with tebar layar, which prevents the roof from leakage during rain fall, at the same time
provides good ventilation.
Figure 2.34: The layer of atap leaves are tied
up together and used to attached with the
roof. (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 2.35: The steep roof with the rafters at
the back of it supporting the whole roof
structure. (Quinn, 2017)
32

Figure 2.36: The base of the columns are made up
of concrete, with timber post to support and elevate
the floor level. (Quinn, 2017)
In addition, another main feature of the traditional Malay house are
the stilts, which is the post that supports the whole house, raising
from the ground. Traditional Malay houses were usually built along
the rivers. Thus, the idea of a raised floor construction is to avoid
the dampness around the house in this hot and humid tropical
climate. It can avoid flash floods during the rainy season and allow
ventilation through the cracked woods flooring. In addition, the
raised floor system prevent attacks from wild animals especially for
those traditional Malay houses that are located in the forest.
All traditional Malay houses have at least two entrances. The main
entrance is facing the front and another one facing the back. The front
main entrance is mostly for male visitors.In contrast, the back entrance
is for the women as well as the children. Female visitors usually enter
from the back entrance to join the gatherings and activities held in the
kitchen.
Figure 2.37: The staircase that leads to front
and back entrances of the house. The form of
the house that responds to the climate
conditions is also shown. (eficienciaenergtica,
2017)
33

Most of the traditional Malay house has slabs that are made from stone or timber at the base of the staircase. The spot is
where visitors put their shoes before entering the house. Besides that, a clay water vessel (tempayan) with a water gourd
(gayong) is put by the side for visitors to wash their feet upon ascending the stairs. This is to remain the cleanliness of
the interior spaces.
Figure 2.39: The water gourd (Gayong) (northerndipper,
2017)
Figure 2.38: The clay water vessel (Tempayan)
(kaskus, 2017)
34

INTERIOR SPACES OF THE MALAYHOUSE
One of the most congenial aspects of the Malay house is its openness. All traditional Malay houses are divided into
different spaces, instead of rooms. The most noticeable feature in the traditional Malay house is the absence of
partitions or solid ceiling-height walls that separates spaces. Instead of creating a solid boundary, Malay people tend to
use cloth as partitions to divide the spaces.
Figure 2.40: The division of spaces in a
traditional Malay House.(archfullstop,
2017)
Figure 2.41: The possibilities and flexibility of expanding the traditional
Malay house. (shirleysia-dissertation, 2017)
35

The traditional Malay house separate the spaces into 2 main categories:
I) The Public Spaces
The staircase located at the front of the house is a gesture of a
transitional space from a public region to a private region. It leads
people to the main area, which is what Malays call Anjung.
Anjung is a covered porch which is a space for people to gather
around and relax. This spot is also where visitors that passes by
the owner’s house and being greeted by them.
Figure 2.42: The indication of the staircase leading to the Anjung
(Covered Porch). (rumahkereda, 2017)
The Anjung leads to a long and narrow reception area, which the
Malay calls it Serambi, which connects the front porch to the
core of the house.This is a space where social interaction take
place and religious functions are carried out. The space is
mainly occupied for non-family members. Since the Serambi is
an open space, the space has more air ventilation.
Figure 2.43: The Serambi fits as a welcoming space for visitors.
(keywordsking, 2017)
36

The space adjacent to the Serambi is called the Rumah Ibu. It
is the main area of the traditional Malay house, one of the most
private and sacred space. This space where people carry out
prayers and rest. In addition, they perform household chores, for
instance ironing and sewing in Rumah Ibu.
Figure 2.44: The Rumah Ibu is where the privacy of the
family members are retained. (adesibank, 2017)
ii) The Private Spaces
Figure 2.46: The roof attic.(ujie, 2017)
Figure 2.45: The stairway to acces
the roof
attic.(rumahwarisanrabiahmatkleba
ngbesar, 2017)
Other than Rumah Ibu, there is also
an attic space called Loteng. It is
found in some traditional Malay house,
which is located in the roof space,
under the gables of Rumah Ibu.
37

Selang, which is a closed corridor that leads
to the Rumah Dapur, the kitchen of the
traditional Malay house. The kitchen of the
traditional Malay house is located at the
back of the house compound, this is mainly
for the women to gather and cook. It is also
a space for the family members to dine.
Figure 2.47: The kitchen (kosmo, 2017)
Figure 2.48: The
Pelantar (An open
platform)
(mycuteshoppe, 2017)
Figure 2.49: An
extension at the
kitchen area.
(mycuteshoppe, 2017)
The kitchen has a fire box for cooking
purposes. At the very end of the house,
there is an open platform, also known as the
Pelantar. It is constructed by timber and is
a build in utility in the Rumah Dapur. This is
the space for the family to prepare food and
to wash their clothes as well as the dishes.
38

Figure 2.50: An ample space under the house to store items. (Quinn,2017)
The space underneath the house is catered as a storage space or a working area.
Figure 2.50: An ample space under the house to store
items. (Quinn,2017)
Figure 2.51: An example of a sugar cane clamp stored
under the house, utilizing the empty spaces as a storage.
(Quinn, 2017)
39

2.4 HISTORY & THECULTURE OF KEDAH
Figure 2.52 : Kedah state flag. (libra1002, 2017)
Insight
Kedah additionally known by its honorific, Darul Aman, or "Abode of Peace" is a state of Malaysia. The place can be found in
the North-Western part of the Peninsular Malaysia . The state covers an aggregate territory of more than 9,000 km², and it
comprises of the terrain and Langkawi. The territory has a generally leveled landscape, which is utilized to develop rice
which in other words, called the "rice-bowl' of Malaysia. Langkawi is an archipelago of islands, a large portion of which are
uninhabited. Kedah was called Kadaram by old and medieval Tamil individuals and Syburi by the Siamese when it was
under their influence. Toward the north, Kedah fringes the condition of Perlis and shares an universal limit with the Songkhla
and Yala regions of Thailand. It's outskirts is Perak towards the South and Penang toward the South-West.
The state's capital is Alor Setar and the regal seat is in Anak Bukit. Other significant towns that can be found are Sungai
Petani, Kulim on the terrain, and Kuah on Langkawi.
40

2.4.1 GEOGRAPHY
Kedah is the eighth biggest state and also one of the most populated state in Malaysia, with an aggregate land zone of
9,500 km2 (3,700 sq mi), and a populace of 1,890,098.
The Pedu Lake is the biggest man-made lake in the state.
Figure 2.53 : Maps of Kedah. (instant2travel, 2017) Figure 2.54 : Pedu Lake of Kedah. (flickr, 2017)
41

2.4.2 CLIMATE
Kedah has a tropical climate. The city has a critical precipitation, even in the driest month, there is still a considerable
measure of rain. As indicated by Köppen and Geiger, this atmosphere is named (Af = Tropical rainforest atmosphere;
normal precipitation of no less than 60 mm (2.4 in) in consistently). The normal yearly temperature is 19.5 °C in Kedah.
Precipitation here midpoints 1935 mm.
The driest month is July, with 67 mm of precipitation. The majority of precipitation in Kedah falls on the November,
averaging 245 mm.
The hottest month of the year is April, with an average temperature of 20.1 °C. July is the coldest month, with temperatures
averaging 19.0 °C.
Figure 2.55 : Graph of Kedah climate throughout the
year. (en.climate-data.org, 2017)
42

2.4.3ECONOMY
Kedah is known as the "rice bowl" (Malay: Jelapang Padi) of Malaysia, representing about portion of Malaysia's aggregate
creation of rice. In 2008, the state government restricted the transformation of paddy fields to lodging and mechanical parts to
secure the rice business. Tourism, especially on the island of Langkawi is one of the developing significance.
Kedah has fashioned its economy towards the car and aviation businesses with Modenas and Asian Composites setting up
bases here. One of the fundamental preferences is the low work costs and the foundation set up with the North-South
Expressway and the Penang International Airport close by. In 1996, the Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP) was formally opened as the
main high innovation mechanical stop in Malaysia. The Park contains an aggregate land territory of around 14.5 square
kilometers (5.6 mi²).
This monetary region is a piece of the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER). The Northern Corridor Economic Region is
one of the three improvements made by locals in Peninsular Malaysia; other advancement areas being the Iskandar Malaysia
(or South Johor Economic Region) and the East Coast Development Region.
Figure 2.56 : Picture show paddy field of Kedah.
(prezi, 2017)
43

2.4.4 ARCHITECTURE
Customary Malay engineering was extremely basic and moderate to oblige their families with exceptionally basic instruments
and low economy around them. As time passed by, there was an incredible advancement in their development strategy to suit
their evolving way of life, condition and needs.
The customary Malay house is one of the wealthiest segments of Malaysia's social legacy. It is planned and worked by the
villagers themselves. It has demonstrates the imaginative and tasteful aptitudes of the Malays. The outline of the conventional
Malay house mirrors the personality of the proprietor as well as demonstrate the financial, social and history of the past. The
conventional Malay house highlighted Malays in all way. The diversity between the house in each state demonstrated that
different regions has their own respective differences. The houses are designed well intended to suit its nearby climatic
conditions and express the lifestyle of its occupants, as far as adaptability and multifunctional employments.
The area of Kedah and Perlis makes the state of the Kedah Long Roofed House and Perlis Long Roofed House practically
comparable aside from the game plan of the different areas of the house. The course of action of the Kedah Long Roofed
House is stretched and has a long level rooftop with it's peak closes at the closures.
Figure 2.57 : Traditional Malay House around Malaysia. (prezi, 2017)
44

2.4.5 INFLUENCES
The spread of Islamic culture in Malaysia is said to have a few hypothesis. The landing of Islam through trade has exist since
before thirteenth century. The port on the shoreline of peninsular Malaysia, eastern Sumatra, and the northern island of Java
have been distinguished to be a critical amid seventh and eighth century. Materials, for example, fragrant wood and flavors has
been a noteworthy things which includes China, India and the Mediterranean area. Preacher action Plays an essential role
back then. Preachers who had arrived by means of trader boats had spread Islamic lessons and convictions to the nearby
individuals. Thus, they figured out how to spread Islam to the neighborhood rulers. Toward the end of the thirteenth century, a
few ports in northern Sumatra was overwhelmed by Islam. From there, Islam has spread to peninsular Malaysia. Malay wood
cutting is absolutely utilizes Islamic standards and theories as a center component in creating wood carvings. Along these
lines, all Hindu-Buddhist creatures themes were wiped out. In addition, Malay culture has slowly impacted the premise of wood
carving logic.
Figure 2.58 : Traditional trading in Malaysia. (pinterest,
2017)
45

Calligraphy
It was one of the things that were acknowledged by the
Malay Muslims. The carvers has been effectively creating
work of art highlighting Islamic craftsmanship. Calligraphy
kept on setting among the carvers and regularly incoporated
with nature and geometric themes. The calligraphy has its
own significance and usually displaced openly to the public.
The message relies upon the capacity of space.
Geometry
This geometric themes kept growing in accordance with
the acknowledgment of the Malays to Islam. At the point
when creatures thought processes are not permitted, the
carvers start to apply the geometric examples in the
cutting. For most of the part, the geometric themes joined
with calligraphic themes. There are geometric themes
joined with verdure. Geometric themes utilizes Islamic
geometry found in mosque, tombs, royal residences and
houses.
Figure 2.61 : Picture shown calligraphy craving.
(prophetpbuh, 2017)
Figure 2.62 : Picture shown geomertry style craving.
(Quinn, 2017)
47

Wood Carving in Kedah Traditional Architecture
Flora
Malays gravitates towards the floral theme since Islam restricts
the utilization of creature themes. Thus, the Malay carvers
applies develop nature as part of the carvings. At times, the
plants theme were taken from non-vital or obscure species by
any means. In any case, the imagination of the carvers have
made the carvings more intriguing. NIn present day, the plant
theme carvings contain stylish components. Some of the plants
carvers create are inspired by plants planted around the house
Fauna
Gagak Sura winged creature theme were use for illustrious
occasion. The legendary animals, for example, the garuda, the
God's vehicle were indicated among the people even before Islamic
culture.
After the attack of Islam in the district, all Hindu-Buddhist creatures
themes were dispensed. Creatures theme that have been chosen
were changed shrewdly and has been delivered in an unique way.
Figure 2.59 : Picture shown Gagak Sura. (ipedr, 2017)
Figure 2.60 : Picture shown flora craving on wood. (pinterest,
2017)
46

Cosmos
In the past, peoplein the Malay culture regularly uses elements such as the sun, moon, stars, mists move, the slopes, waves,
et cetera. Sun and star are the most regular themes utilized as a part of peak finishes.
Figure 2.63 : Picture shown cosmos theme on the wood
craving. Quinn, 2017)
48

2.5 HISTORY & THE CULTURE OF ALORSETAR
Geography
Alor Setar is situated in the North-Western piece of Malaysia. Alor Setar has a population of more than 366,787 individuals.
It's fringe region areKubang Pasu, Pokok Sena and Pendang. It is situated at Coordinates 6 ° 7'N 100 ° 22'E, at the edge of
the Malacca Strait which isolates Malaysia from Indonesia.
The city once enveloped a range of 666 km²; and it was then lessened to a coverage of 424 km² because of the production of
the new area of Pokok Sena. Alor Setar is encompassed by critical stream frameworks, for example, the Kedah River, River
Langgar, Tajar River, Anak Bukit River, Alor Malai and Alor Merah.
Figure 2.64 : View of Alor Setar city. (anotherbrickinwall,
2017)
49

2.5.1 CLIMATE
Similarly with all parts of Malaysia, Alor Setar has an extremely protracted wet season.It is regular in a few districts with
the same atmosphere, precipitation is seen not withstanding amid the short dry season. The average temperature is
around 32 degrees Celsius and minimal temperature is around 23 degrees Celsius. Alor Setar has frequent rainfall, as
large as 2300 mm of precipitation every year.
Figure 2.65 : Climate of Alor Setar during the day. (tripmondo, 2017)
50

2.5.2 DEMOGRAPHY
A larger part of Alor Setar are comprised of Kedahan Malay while the minority ethnics are trailed by Chinese, Indian, Thai,
and different Malays incorporate such as Pattani Malay.
Figure 2.66 : Climate of Alor Setar during the day.
(pinterest, 2017)
51

2.5.3 HISTORY
Alor Setar was established in 1735 by Kedah's nineteenth Ruler, Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Adilin II and is the state's
eighth managerial focus since the foundation of the Kedah Sultanate in 1136. The prior managerial focuses were situated in
Kota Bukit Meriam, Kota Sungai Emas, Kota Siputeh, Kota Naga, Kota Sena, Kota Indera Kayangan and Kota Bukit Pinang.
Noteworthy occasions kept here incorporated the passing on of Perlis and Setul (now Satun) to Kedah by the Siamese in May
1897 (both regions were isolated from Kedah since 1821) and a 90-day celebration from June to September 1904 to commend
the wedding of the five offspring of Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah.
Alor Setar became the ninth city in Malaysia on 21 December 2003. The announcement service to pronounce the Kedah's
capital city was held at Dataran Tunku, Alor Setar. The people that were present at the memorable service were Sultan Tuanku
Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah and his partner Che' Puan Haminah Hamidun, the Raja Muda of Kedah and Raja Puan Muda (Heir
Apparent of Kedah State and his associate), individuals from the Kedah sovereignty, parliament individuals and state exco
individuals. The function was likewise seen by regular people and tourist.
52
Figure 2.67 : Picture shown was Sultan Abdul Hamid Shah

2.5.4 CULTURE
Kedah, which is a multi-racial state filled with races like the Malays, Chinese, Indians and Thais, Kedah is actually multi-
social. In spite of the fact that Islam is the national religion, opportunity of love is ensured. Bahasa Malaysia is the national
dialect. However English is generally spoken.The social assorted qualities of Kedah is best reflected in its convention, the
moment points of interest of engineering and way of life. Among the neighborhood conventional tunes and moves which
are intelligent of everyday lives of the ordinary citizens are Tarian Cinta Sayang, Lagu-lagu Berendoi, Wayang Kulit, and so
forth. Likewise, the Silat, which is a type of customary Malay self-protection, is additionally prominent in Kedah. It comes in
different structures and typically performed at different events, for example, weddings and functions.The best beginning
stage to investigate the social legacy of Kedah is Alor Setar itself, the state's capital. The various fine, old structures, for
example, Balai Besar, Balai Seni Negeri, Masjid Zahir, Courthouse, and General Post Office characterized the climate of
provincial administer and speaking to one of the most seasoned historic points of Alor Setar. An understanding into
Kedah's rich social legacy can be examined by going by the State's Museum. The gallery houses an accumulation of
ancient rarities, fine canvases and an extensive variety of verifiable relics. Being the most seasoned state, Kedah has a lot
of these huge, valuable collectibles in plain view. The apparatuses under the Rumah Sungai Ular Kulim house was a few
devices that was utilized in those days. For moment, there was the pengapit santan, pengapit tebu and so forth. It used to
be a show for open, to mirror the way of life of the general population in those days. The design of the house is the
standard format for larger part of the conventional Malay house. A lounge room in front, enters the rooms, and after that
the kitchen. The room, individuals from the past used to utilize material to go about as the allotments to separate spaces.
53
Figure 2.68 : Picture shown is Tradtional Silat

2.5.5 ARCHITECTURE
Rumah Kedah, it is privately known as Rumah Bumbung Panjang or the Long Roof House which mirrors the character of
the customary Malay rooftop shape. Apart from the Rumah Bumbung Limas, Bumbung Lima and Bumbung Perak, The
Rumah Panjang are the most seasoned to be recognized in Malaysia Penisula. It is the most straightforward of four specific
house frames.
One of the main characteristics of Rumah Kedah is the
archiculation and ornamentation of the building. Most decoration
focus on openings such as windows rails(Jerejak),
ventilations(Kerawang), roof eaves(Meleh) and rafter
boards(Papan Cantik).
It is built on stilts like most Malay House, however the main floor
is raised higher above ground than other Malay House. This is
purposely designed based on the environmental factors in Kedah,
which is having paddy fields in the surrounding.
Figure 2.69 : Ornament of Traditional Malay House. (pinterest,
2017)
Figure 2.70 : Common Malay House in Kedah. (ilusidanfantasi, 2017)
54

The most commmon roofing material used for the
bumbung panjang is the attap( a thatch made from
Nipah and other palm trees found in the local natural
vegetation).
Simple gable roof supported by king posts used by traditional Malay
house.
Figure 2.71 : Picture shown traditional Malay House
roofing. (aldeeny, 2017)
Figure 2.72 : Picture shown traditional support construction of roof. (prezi, 2017)
55

3.1 SITE CONTEXT
Located at the capital of Kedah, Alor Setar,
the Kedah House and Surau is one of the
historical building in the bustling city. It
shares the same site compound as Kedah
State Museum, sitting by the bank of Kedah
River. They are facing towards the Darul
Aman Highway and surrounded by suburbs.
(Figure 3.1).
Figure 3.1 Aerial view of the site surrounding. The site
is facing to Darul Aiman Highway, sitting by the banks
of Kedah River. (GoogleMap, 2017)
57

Legend :
1.Wat Siam Bakar Bata
2.Persatuan Leong Say
Tong
3.Suburban area
4.MBAS Swimming Pool
Complex
5.Stadium Darul Aman
Figure 3.2 Aerial view of the site surrounding. The site is facing to Darul Aiman Highway,
sitting by the banks of Kedah River. (GoogleMap, 2017)
58
1
2
3
5
4

3.1.1 Surrounding Buildings
Darul Aman Stadium
An all-seater and a multi-purpose stadium established in 1962 and opened officially by the Sultan of Kedah during
Malaya winning 1-0 against South Korea. After the expansion in 1997, it has a capacity of 40,000 seats. As the
largest stadium in the state, it is currently used mostly for football matches. It was one of the venues for the 1997
FIFA World Youth Championship as well as the official stadium for Malaysian Super League's club Kedah FA.
Figure 3.3 (Top) The aerial view of the
stadium. (Google, 2017)
59
Figure 3.4 (Below) Entrance view of
the stadium.(Google, 2017)

Persatuan Leong Say Tong
Sitting just right behind of the Kedah house, Persatuan Leong Say Tong is a Chinese association in Kedah. Back in the
days before independence, the Chinese organisation was established in order to unite China immigrants in Malaysia.
The purpose was to help out each other economically. The power of the association became stronger and till now it still
exists in every corner of the country. The association are divided by the Chinese surnames, it was said that the
surnames came from different regions of China. While Leong Say (陇西 in Chinese) is the source for the surname
Dong, Lee and Pang.
Figure 3.5 The elevation of Leong Say Tong. (Google , 2017)
60

Wat Samosornrajanukpradit
(Thai:วัดสโมสรราชานุประดิษฐ ์)
A Thai Buddhist temple located in the Alor Setar suburb
of Bakar Bata, often just known as Wat Siam Bakar Bata.
It is one of the influence of Thai. Kedah have ever been one of
the tributary states of Siam until 1909, when Anglo-Siamese
Treaty of 1909 was signed and ceded the states of Kedah,
Kelantan, and Terengganu to Great Britain while Pattani
remained in Siamese hands. The treaty has defined the border
between British and Siamese territories and ultimately became
today's border between Malaysia and Thailand. The influence
of Thai left well with the name of the places and the traditional
entertainments, including this Thai Buddhist temple.
Figure 3.6 : The entrance view of the
temple. (GoogleMap, 2017)
Figure 3.7 : Interior of the temple.
(GoogleMap, 2017)
61

A public swimming pool that serves as training
center during weekdays. The depth of the
swimming pool is suitable for kids and the
entrance fee is very affordable with RM3 charges
for adults during weekend. Therefore it is a
popular destination for local families during
weekends.
MBAS Swimming Pool Complex
Figure 3.8 : MBAS Swimming Pool (Google , 2017)
62

3.1.2 Buildings In Site Compound
Built in 1936 then relocated to its present site at Bakar Bata, near the banks of Kedah River in 1964. The present
museum complex was completed in 1977 at a cost of RM8 million. The state museum is the centre of knowledge about
Kedah with a large collection of Kedah's historical, culture, and royal heritages. The collection includes early Chinese
porcelain, artifacts from the archaeological excavations in Bujang Valley and a 'gold tree', a gold sculpture of a small
tree given annually by the early Kedah Sultanate to Siam as a tribute. It is a good place to learn Kedah’s history, dating
back from the glorious Bujang Valley civilization between third century and twelfth century to the recent British colonial
days.
Kedah State Museum
Figure 3.9 : Kedah State Museum is a 3 storey high
building. (Google , 2017)
63

One of the branches of the Malaysian Historical Society,
a non-government organisation established officially at
1953, aimed to preserve the historical documents and
records as well as promote local history and culture. The
headquarter is located at Kuala Lumpur, with branches in
every states of the country. The organisation also
published journals and articles about historical studies, in
order to educate the younger generations about the
interesting history of Malaysia. To initiate the interest of
the citizen in understanding Malaysia history, seminars
and exhibitions are held annually and open to public.
Competitions are also organised to encourage students
to study history from young age. Figure 3.10 : Front facade of PSMCK
(GoogleMap, 2017)
Persatuan Sejarah Malaysia CawanganKedah
(PSMCK)
64

The compound of the house is heavily shaded with trees and covered with vegetation. This sets the house in a cooler
environment. The setting of traditional Malay house that close to nature and surrounded by greenery absorbs lots of
daylights, thus lessen the effect of glare.
3.1.3 Landscape
Plants
Figure 3.11: Palm trees behind Kedah house.
(Google, 2017)
65

Food is the most important elements in associating the
relationship between plants and also mankind.
Therefore, the cultivation of plants in Malay community is
generally more focused on food necessity.
Among the plants/ crops species that could be seen are
the example of plantation of Garcinia mangostana
(mangosteen), Musa spp. (banana), Cocos nucifera
(coconut), Artocarpus integer (cempedak/ jackfruit),
Artocarpus heteropyllus Lam (nangka/ jackfruit),
Mangifera spp. (mango) and many more.
Figure 3.12 : Mango tree at the site
compound. (Ng, 2017)
66

Figure 3.14 : Banana trees beside the Kedah
house. (Ng, 2017)
For every house, the plantation of trees that are food
source become a vital necessity by considering Malay
community culture that rarely buy the basic ingredients for
the kitchen needs. Most of menus of Malays use raw
materials in their surrounding area
Figure 3.13 : Banana trees beside the Kedah house.
(Ng, 2017)
67

3.2 Orientation of the Building
3.2.1 Malay Houses in Kampong
According to The Encyclopedia of Malaysia
Architecture (1998), kampongs have been described
as several cluster Malay houses with its compound.
There is never a clear boundary within the
houses.Some settlers use a coconut trunk to
mark their boundaries whereas others use a
small stream to identify the boundaries of the lot. This
allows the villagers to roam around freely and partake
in social interactions between each other. The
compounds have a path that link between houses, for
example, roads lead from house to
public facilities such as a mosque, school, cemetery,
shops and workplaces such as paddy fields, boat jetty
and orchards.
Figure 3.15 : Kampong’s orientation.(Google,
2017)
68

Typically, houses in kampongs are arranged organically. The usage of the term “organic” being unplanned,
natural, absence of clear polars and the exclusion of professional intervention. Normally, residents select the house
location based on traditional beliefs. They used to and perhaps are still dependant on local carpenters and shamans in
choosing the most optimal location for their residence. After the kampongs are developed into a substantial settlement,
only then are modern infrastructures, facilities, and utilities are implemented. Soon, these Infrastructures and services
determine the location of the houses.
Figure 3.16 : Kampong’s organic layout.
(Google, 2017)
69

In kampongs, it was very conducive for doing communal activities within the settlement because of the open
atmosphere, random layout and the lack of physical barriers. As such, this helps improve upon the concept of sharing,
caring and cooperation among the kampong’s community.
Figure 3.17 : An example of a kampong communal activity being held.
(Google, 2017)
70

Al-Ahmadi once stated, that in order to place things in the Malay environments,orientation is one of the most
important elements. Most traditional Malay houses found in kampongs are oriented to face the Qibla, which is facing
West-Northwest. Syed Iskandar Ariffin found that, most traditional Malay house frontages were also oriented towards the
main point of access to the site like footpath, pathway, track and road even if they need to abandon north-south
orientation, the ideal orientation.
Figure 3.18 : Aerial view of the Qa’bah
(Google, 2017)
Figure 3.19 : Location of Mecca (Google, 2017)
3.2.2 Orientation in relation to religious factor
71

As such, Qibla orientation is not taken as a deciding factor compared to the orientation of the main door.
However, this does not apply to mosques and suraus in the area due to the this particular necessity to face Mecca
being extremely crucial. Apart from that, kampong houses do not face the back of another house directly.
Figure 3.20 : Surau in Kampong.
(Google, 2017)
Figure 3.21 : Surau Haji Abdul Rahman. (Quinn,
2017)
72

The buildings on site are facing to the southeast with the main entrance facing towards the wide parking
lot. The parking lot was initially a field with trees before it was covered with tar. Both of the houses have their back
facing to the Qibla. As Surau is a religious place, it is easier for the masses to arrange themselves for prayers if one
part of the Surau is facing to the Qibla. The house is arranged parallel to the Surau, mainly for aesthetic purpose. They
are both linked by a semicircle pathway arching out from both of their entrances to ease the access between two
buildings.
Figure 3.23 : View of the buildings from parking
lot (Quinn, 2017)
3.2.3 Building Site Orientation
Figure 3.22 : Aerial View of the site (Google
map, 2017)
73

3.3 Design Concept
Vernacular houses are usually designed with a deep understanding and respect for nature. A vast knowledge of
nature’s ways and the ecological balance was present in most traditional societies as the villagers had to rely on the
surrounding nature for most of their resources. Their food, medicine, and building and household materials were
obtained directly from the natural environment. The natural approach found in our Malay house is reflected in the
climatic design of the house.
Figure 3.24 : Pureness of Materials
( Quinn, 2017 )
Figure 3.25 : Vernacular Architecture
( Quinn, 2017 )
74

To achieve thermal comfort, a traditional vernacular Malay house usually has to :
(a) allow adequate ventilation for cooling
(b) use low capacity building materials so that little heat is transmitted into the house
(c)control direct solar radition
(d) control glare from the surrounding environment
(e) provide shelter to the inhabitants against rain
(f) ensure adequate natural vegetation in the surroundings to provide temperature cooling
Figure 3.26 : Thermal Diagram. ( Google, 2017 )
75

The thatched house roof with large overhangs effectively controls solar radiation. The large overhangs provide good
shelter from the sun and rainfall. It also allows the windows to be left open most of the time for ventilation, even during
storms as the rain would not enter the house.
Figure 3.27 : Roof Details on Sheltering.( Iddin, 2017 )
76

For example, there are many gaps in the building located in its windows, ventilation grilles and panels; and its open interior
with minimum partition allow easy flow of air and a much cooler inside atmosphere.
As for heat management, both structures are made of wood and leaves for the roof. Their interiors are also very spacious,
with little dividers in between them. Both of them also have carved floral decorations on top of the structure to help control
the light flow in the house and aid in providing proper ventilation throughout the house.
Figure 3.30 : Ventilation on the Window (Quinn,
2017)
Figure 3.29: Ventilation Ornamental Gaps
(Google map, 2017)
77

There is an abundance of windows found in the Malay house and since the body level is the most vital area for
ventilation, fully openable windows are often used. Not only that, the carved wooden panels and grilles found
throughout the house are also effective ventilation devices. The roof of the house is also designed in such a way that
it is used to direct and trap air to ventilate the roof space.
Another creative use of effective ventilation device is the use of patah in the roof. The vegetation planted around the
houses are also designed in such a way that there is an optimal wind flow to the house.
Figure 3.28 : Air Circulation through the
house (Google, 2017)
78

Furthermore, the compound of the house is also often
covered with vegetation. This sets the house in a cooler
environment, as the trees and vegetation are not absorbing
and storing heat from solar radiation and releasing it into the
environment. Glare is controlled in these houses by
excluding open skies and bright areas from the visual field.
The large overhangs help cover windows to reduce glare
from the open skies. It can be observed that the traditional
Malay house uses mainly ventilation and solar radiation
control devices to provide climatic comfort for the house.
Figure 3.31 : Ventilation Ornament 1 (Quinn,
2017)
Figure 3.32 : Ventilation Ornament 2 (Quinn,
2017)
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The Malay house is often divided into areas, rather than rooms, for various social and household activities. The design
of the house has also been dictated by the social mores of the Malays, such as the provision of a private space for the
womenfolk and a public space for the entertaining of male guests, because the Malay house is always considered a
unit of a larger community in the village.
3.4 Spatial Organisation & SpatialExperience
80

Basically, the traditional Malay house can be divided into
three main areas, the ‘serambi’ (verandah), ‘rumah ibu’
(main house) and ‘dapur’ (kitchen). To separate the area,
one slight floor level changes or doorways is made between
the areas. Besides the three main areas, some of the
houses have ‘anjung’ and ‘selang’. The anjung is a covered
porch used as a relax area for family members or guest
while selang is a passageway that links the main house to
the kitchen and provides an effective firebreak between the
areas in the house.
81

1
2
3
As it can be seen on the right side, There are 5
spaces divided according to its user activities inside
and it got its own names. It also gives different
feelings and ambiences in different rooms.
1. Anjung
2. Serambi Gantung
3. Rumah Ibu (Serambi Samanik)
4. Dapur (Rumah Tengah)
4
Figure 3.35 Floor plan of Kedah traditional house.
(Measured Drawing Team Kedah Traditional
House, 2017)
82

Traditional Malay houses have at least two entrance by
steps, the main entrance at the front for visitors and
males and the one at the back mostly for women and
children.
At the entrance, stairs lead up to a covered porch called
the anjung. The porch acts as a good transition space
between the public and the private domains. The anjung
also acts as an important focal point for the entrance.
Unfamiliar visitors and guests are entertained here. It is
also a favourite place for the house occupants to rest,
chat and watch the goings-on and passers-by in the
village. It brings the harmonious and peaceful ambiance
as the user entering the house and enable the cross
ventilation since it is half open wall.
Figure 3.36 : Stairs leading up to the
anjung. (Ng, 2017)
Entrance
83

From the entrance porch, one enters into the serambi gantung.This is the place where most guests are entertained.
The windows in serambi gantung are low, allowing good ventilation and view to the exterior.
Through this space user can experience the harmonious and togetherness between users (family, friends, and
relatives). There are a lot of openings that provide enough light penetration within the space. There is also additional
lamps inside the room to maximise the needs of light. It also gives a relaxing ambiance with the help of good
ventilation.
Figure 3.37 : Serambi Gantung. (Quinn, 2017)
Serambi Gantung (Hanging Verandah)
84

Serambi Samanaik
Serambi Samanaik is the connection between rumah ibu and the kitchen. This is the place where the user sleep and
rest during the night.
Usually the users gather to do meetings, praying here. It is also a sleeping space for adults.The space has lesser
windows and openings compared to other spaces in the house, giving a spiritual and calm ambiance. The dim lighting in
the room are achieved by decreasing amount of openings. As the ceiling are higher than the wall partitions, it gives an
open feeling to the user, so that one does not feel suffocating in the dim and enclosed space.
Figure 3.38 : The dim lighting in the room are achieved
by lesser window and openings. (Iddin, 2017)
85

The kitchen is always situated at the back of the house, and is on the lowest floor level. Activities that are done here
including the preparation of food, cooking, eating and washing. The womenfolk also often group here to chat.
It is the most spacious space in the house, with natural lights come in through every sides of the wall (it looks enclosed
due to broken windows that we could not open). It gives an enjoyable and comfortable atmosphere for cooking activities
and group conversations.
Dapur (Kitchen)
Figure 3.40 : Cooking utensil. (Iddin, 2017)Figure 3.39 : Kitchen (Iddin,2017)
86

3.5 Design Features
The building emphasised on its roof and stilts of the foundation, both buildings are built above ground of a higher level.
The highlight feature is the decorations and ornaments in the building that reflected the way of traditional living and
Malay culture. This includes the carvings that can be seen exterior as well as the arrangement of furnitures interior.
3.5.1 Kedah Traditional House
The exterior of Kedah Traditional house are unique with the blend of nature materials, the placing of the wood planks
wall, the framework of the joints and also the framework for windows and openings. It shows the pureness of material
usage and design concept from the local builders.
Figure 3.41 : East Side of the house
(Quinn, 2017)
87

East Side
The front side of the house is the east side from the compass, it exhibits mostly all main features of the house.
Transom Windows that allow the air to circulate between inside and outside space, The ornamental gable roof with
traditional decoration, raised floor by using high foundation, short height staircase that leads to the anjung part of
the house.
Figure 3.42 : East Side of the house (Iddin, 2017)
88

West Side
The back side of the house is the west side by compass, consisting portable or moveable pelantar (for washing and
drying clothes) behind the kitchen space (dapur). The facade also included with horizontal arranged repetitive wood
planks, timber door, and an additional space as it can be seen at the extended attap roof at the left side
Figure 3.43 : West Side of the house (Iddin, 2017)
89

South Side
The Anjung space of the house placed at the South side of the house, It shows the overall spaces and rooms that
belong to the house. It shows the Anjung’s half open wall, repetitive timber planks wall placement, Transom windows,
and different height of flooring and roofing.
Figure 3.44 : South Side of the house (Iddin, 2017)
90

North Side
The North side of the house mostly shows the high level of raised flooring, and it shows the extended views of the
overall length of the house. As it can be seen below exhibit the longest room of the house, and repetitive wall to add.
Figure 3.45 : North Side of the house (Iddin, 2017)
91

Part of the attap roof was well decorated with an authentic craft from the locals, which showed repetition and
patterns bringing the sense of a whole or unify different parts of patterns.
Exterior Details
Figure 3.46 : Gable Screen ornament (Quinn, 2017) Figure 3.47 : Roof Ornamental Detail (Quinn, 2017)
92

Foundation
This is part of the foundation of Kedah Traditional House, which functions as house support to enable the house to
rise up higher, avoiding dangerous animals and enabling a cooler interior by cross ventilation through beneath the
floor.
Figure 3.48 : Foundation of the House
(Quinn, 2017)
93

Wall
Exterior wall with repetition placement of wood panels, which is also part of the interior walls, brings both same
experiences of harmonious and visually pleasing. Which includes the window frame that disguises as part of the
exterior wall. Even though it looks neat and similar, but in actual it is different in sizes.
Figure 3.49 : Horizontal Wall (Iddin, 2017) Figure 3.50 : Timber Wall Placing
(Iddin, 2017)
94

Windows
A part of the exterior of the house. Functioning to circulate the air and also exposing the interior spaces. In this Kedah
Traditional house, it also functions as part of the ventilation even though it is closed which it enables the air to circulate
throughout the house.
Figure 3.51 : Windows at Traditional
House (Iddin, 2017)
95

Staircase
The house also has a staircase which leads to the “Anjung” area, it helps the user to reach the enclosed space. It
completes the house feature since it is one of the main exterior part that enables the user to enter the house.
Figure 3.52 : Staircase from South Side of the House
(Iddin, 2017)
96

Interior Spaces
A place for the users to obtain comfort and be secure. For the traditional Kedah house, the interior is the most vital
area for ventilation because the house adpoted an open plan concept, providing good ventilation and shading
purposes for the user. It gives a flexible option for users to experience a fully open space or fully enclosed spaces by
using the openings elements in the house.
Figure 3.53 : Bedroom Space and ambience
(Quinn, 2017)
97

It is contradicted by the statement mentioned before about
spaces being free. It is flexible, depedant on the owners
needs, as it has many openings such as the windows, that
has swing doors. (Transom type windows).
Figure 3.54 : Transom Window
Details(Quinn, 2017)
The interior of the traditional Malay house is commonly dim
and under lit (if it is fully enclosed), giving a cool feeling and
in a comfortable state to the users despite the hot weather.
Besides, carving is a glare breaker and light controller in
the house.
Figure 3.55 : The wall lights in the house.
(Quinn, 2017)
98

The furniture arrangement also follows the function of the rooms and spaces. Usually made by the locals so it is all
purely handmade and authentic, done by the locals. A commonly used wood material (Kayu Jati) and also other
natural materials that can be found from the surroundings. It is carefully crafted by the locals to show it's texture and
the colors that blends with the room color palette, giving it a harmony space.
Figure 3.56 : Examples of Furniture inside the house
(Iddin, 2017)
99

Islamic Culture
From the Islamic view, Surau and Kedah house are
defined as the safe shelters and private sanctuaries, best
places to enjoy tranquillity because of its pureness
tradition, by its function and design, it gives seclusion of
female privacy (highly upheld by muslims) and individual
rights that are free from any intrusion of privacy in life. A
mosque plan are all closed for its privacy.
Figure 3.57 : Example of Mosque
Plan (Google, 2017)
The concept of privacy in Islam is embraced in the
spaces they create. It is a segregation between male
and female, segregation spaces between privacy
lives and public interactions to protect the security of
a family member.
Figure 3.58 : Muslim Daily Life Diagram (Google,
2017)
100

3.5.2 Surau
Surau's exterior is similar like the Kedah traditional house, the elements including doors, windows, staircase, attap roof,
exterior wall using timber planks, foundation wall and stumps. Mostly same like Kedah Traditional House which exhibits the
pureness of material usage and local design concept.
East Side
East Side of the Surau is also the front side, which shows the main staircase, windows, vertical repetitive wood planks wall,
and also building’s columns from all sides. It also shows the wudhu area where people (especially muslims) wash their face,
hands, and feet before do the prayer inside the building. The surau displays the horizontal view of the gable roof.
Figure 3.59 : East Side of Surau (Iddin,2017)
101

West Side
The West side of the building shows the back side of
the surau, It displays the extended space at the back of
the building. Also showing the gable roof which was
invisible from the front side of the house. It also shows
the appearance of cross planning due the extended
wings spaces at the both sides.
Figure 3.60 : West Side of Surau (Iddin,2017)
South side of the house mainly exhibits the transom
windows that displays the ventilation features of the house.
It shows the simplicity of the house design and the
extended roof at the front side, with the roof support
structure that is visible from the human perspective. It also
preserves the “beduk” which can be found under the
surau.
Figure 3.61 : South Side of Surau (Iddin,2017)
South Side
102

North Side
Below is the north side of the house which also has another staircase that leads to another room in the building. All the
concrete below the staircase and columns functioned to prevent from the termites. Mostly shows the same features as
the south side of the house, including door, transom windows and ventilation.
Figure 3.62 : North Side of Surau (Iddin,2017)
103

Carving at the openings and wall panel at the traditional Malay house also acts as shading devices in controlling and
filtering the undesirable effects. The illumination level of interior space is significant as having sufficient amount to
complete the task required should be satisfactory or else excessive amount can be wasteful and consume more energy.
The use of carvings at the opening break up large bright areas into narrow light holes, yet permit enough light to the
interiors.
Figure 3.63 : Ventilation Carving detail (Quinn,2017)
104

For Surau, It was a spacious space where there are a lot of lights penetrate through the ‘open-ceiling’ and through
every holes, ventilation is possible through the openable windows. It gives a spiritual and free atmosphere, where
people can freely come in and do prayers, it also gives a calm ambience through its openness where people could
hear the wind blows and birds chirping.
Figure 3.64 : Surau Interior Details (Quinn, 2017)
105

3.6.1 Ornaments
Figure 3.65 : Floral carvings on the staircase. (Quinn, 2017)
The motifs of flora are considered as the most prominent and recurrent decorative patterns found in Malay
woodcarvings. The study found that floral motifs of specific plants with its elements including flowers, flower buds,
leaves, tendrils, fruits, and shoots were the most popular design pattern employed in the carvings of Malay houses.
They were arranged to form one complete carving with a certain degree of complexity and intricacy.
3.6 Ornamentations and Details
106

Windows and doors are the main elements for ventilation at
body level. There are many full length openable windows and
doors at body level in Malay house to allow cross ventilation.
The door consists of two boards that usually open inwards;
only rarely do doors open outwards. In some houses there are
sliding doors. Such doors are still seen in some kutai houses
in Perak. The doors of traditional houses usually had bolts or
crossbars, but the modern limas houses have locks or
padlocks.
1. Doors
Figure 3.66 Door Knob in Surau (Quinn, 2017)
Traditional Malay houses usually have three doors:
I. the front door, located in the front verandah or porch;
II. the passage door, located in the passage or at the part
where the main house and the passage meet;
III. the back door, located behind the kitchen.
In addition to the doors that lead out of the house, there are
also doors within the house, such as the room doors,
verandah doors, and doors that separate areas in the main
house from the passage and the kitchen. Figure 3.67 : Openings in the living area of the
Surau. (Quinn, 2017)
107

2.Windows
The design of windows in traditional Malay house
has different opening sizes and flexibility to
adjust with the changing of microclimate,
specifically daylight intensity and distribution.
Daylight distribution is not uniform and always
moving due to the dense cloud cover .
Most of the windows are latticed. The windows
consist of two shutters that open outwards
(Figure 3.68 ). There are some instances where
the shutters of the windows extend to the floor
and part of the opening is latticed. There are also
window openings that are not latticed. Like the
doors, the windows have wooden frames known
as the uprights or pedestals.The uprights are
joined by fillets, as decoration for the walls.
Figure 3.68 : Double casement window in Kedah
House. (Quinn, 2017)
108

3.Roof
Depending on types of traditional Malay house, some appear to have intricate woodcarvings such as tebar
layar, which allows air passage through the roof area.
Figure 3.69 : Tebar layar on the roof. (Iddin,2017) Figure 3.70 : The ornaments on the roof.
(Iddin,2017)
109

The use of the sunbeam motif on the gable screens of
the traditional houses symbolizes the beginning and
the end of the day.
Figure 3.71: The sunbeam motif on the gable
screen. (Quinn, 2017)
Motif of a specific plant with its various elements
represents the natural growth and movement of life
in living plant. This suggests a manifestation of
craftsman’s perception of the beauty in nature into
the art form. Several types of plants such as
ketumbit, ketam guri, bayam pereaksi (all are weeds
grown in house yards) and kekacang (climbing
legume) are generally represented as focal objects
in the carving composition.
Figure 3.72 : Floral carvings at the wall panel. (Quinn,
2017)
110

Other than these, there are also decorative elements, specifically designed to allow air passage into the interior part of
the house. It depicts the ventilation approaches from openings as well as other design element in order to achieve
thermal comfort.
For example, cut out carvings are normally used on gables, timber panel above doors or windows, and wind holes at
higher level of partition, in order to provide good ventilation and airy spaces.
It is worth noticing that the decorations are not merely objects of beauty, but also as mean to create an environment of
peace and tranquility.
Figure 3.74 : Window’s Ventilation (Iddin, 2017) Figure 3.75 : Window’s Ventilation (Iddin, 2017)
111

The traditional craftsmen used two methods of floral motif depiction:
(1) close imitation of natural plants from immediate surroundings, and
(2) transformation of the plant motifs that barely resemble their real-life image.
The woodcarvers have responded to the pristine beauty of a natural plant by preserving it in forms of woodcarving
with the best way whenever they can. The name for the floral motif was usually derived from the original plants.
However, some motifs are without name because its depiction is based on the woodcarvers’ imagination.
Figure 3.73 : Ventilation Carving on the wall (Quinn, 2017)
112

Figure 3.76 : Deer head wall decoration in Kedah House.
(Ng, 2017)
3.6.2 Decoration
There is a deer head hanging at the wall, from the
interview, we know that it is for decoration purpose.
At the same time, it can be used to hang clothes
and songkok.
113

3.7 Visual Experiences
From distance, these houses look merged with the surroundings (plants and trees) because of its usage of timber
material and simple form of construction. These examples of unique features, shows that the houses are not
possessed by the grandeur found in modern buildings designed by modern self-conscious designers but it reflects
other qualities lacking in the modern buildings - a clear expression of the way of life and culture of its users.
114

The roof, which is large, dominates the low walls and the open stilted bottom of the house. The juxtaposition
(two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect) of the roofs with different sizes and at
different orientations creates an interesting visual form.
3.7.1 Roof Juxtaposition
Figure 3.77 : Surau’s Roof (Quinn, 2017) Figure 3.78 : House’s Roof (Quinn, 2017)
115

3.7.2 House Decoration
The house’s decoration also pleases the user’s or visitor’s eyes, it derived from local flowers and curved
shapes that shows Malay’s uniqueness and creativity for its crafts. It shows repetition and pattern by the
design of the decorations, that shows consistency and creates a visual interest through users eyes.
Figure 3.79 : Gable Screen Decoration (Quinn, 2017) Figure 3.80 : Ornamental Ventilation (Quinn, 2017)
116

3.7.3 Light Penetration
Light can be included as one of the element of the house because due to light, it is possible to perceive different
atmospheres in the same environment. Light also constitutes an element of fundamental relevance and therefore it
plays a significant role in the architecture. The light comes in between the holes of the decoration ventilation, as it can
be seen besides. It creates order and rhythm and change the spatial effect that gives different atmosphere.
Figure 3.81 : Light Illusion in house (Quinn,2017) Figure 3.82 : Light Penetration details
(Quinn, 2017)
117

The woodwork and framework shows its quality of the builder, how they actually built the building without using any
modern machine but relies on their creativity in using joints and trust for the wall, flooring, foundation, windows, doors,
and roofing. Its complexity (emphasized on the roof framework) of the framework also brings the sense of tall and high
ceiling (open ceiling) by merging it with the attap roof.
3.7.4 Woodwork & Framework
Figure 3.83 : Ceiling’s joist (Iddin, 2017) Figure 3.84 : Flooring’s Joist (Quinn, 2017)
118

3.7.5 Vernacular Architecture
The dimension of Malay vernacular architecture with different spatial and physical qualities of its relate time
involves with the complementation of various cultural roots, offering a potential concepts to be called
contemporary vernacular architecture. a clear expression of the way of life and culture of its users. Shows its
pureness through the usage of material and shapes.
Figure 3.85 : Vernacular Architecture Details (Quinn, 2017)
119

3.7.6 Landscape View
Different views can be seen through all openings inside the
house, and actually we can see it from the east, west,
north, and south side. Due to the openings from all sides of
the house, it serves a lot of views from different directions.
It also helps the user to be pre-cautious of its
surroundings, as an example if there is any dangerous
animals or disaster from a far.
Figure 3.86 : Surau Window’s view (Quinn, 2017)
120

3.8 ComparisonAnalysisoftheMalayHouse
Though the basic house form and construction
methods are similar, the malay house style,
particularly the design of the roof, vary from state
to state in Peninsular Malaysia. The Malay house
may be roughly divided into three types:
Malacca-Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan-Terengganu,
and Johor-Selangor-Perak.
This topic discusses the differences and
similarities of the features in Malay House from
east and west Peninsular Malaysia to Sabah,
Sarawak.
Figure 3.87 : The design of Malay House varies from
states to states in Peninsular Malaysia.
(Google, 2017)
121

3.8.1 Roof
Various traditional and hybrid Malay house forms are classified mainly by their roof shapes. The basic house forms
are the bumbung panjang, bumbung lima, bumbung perak and bumbung limas.
Figure 3.88 : Indoor view of the roof. (Quinn, 2017)
122

Locally known as Rumah Bumbung Panjang or the Long Roof House which characterised by the long gable roof. It is
the simplest and most common of the four mentioned house forms, with a kingpost supporting the structure. The
bumbung panjang houses are the oldest identified in Peninsular Malaysia, many of them being over a hundred years
old and still in good condition. The most common roofing material used for the bumbung panjang is the attap (a
thatch made from nipah and other palm trees found in the local natural vegetation).
3.8.2 Kedah House
The simple bumbung panjang roof-form is most efficient in its
ventilation properties. Its simple funnel shape, the use of
ventilation grilles at its gable ends (tebar layar) and the use of
ventilation joints allow good ventilation of the roof space which
cools the house effectively. The roof is simple and easy to
construct, and this partly explains the popularity of this house
form among the poorer villagers and those who build houses
themselves.
Figure 3.89 : Typical Kedah Traditional House
(Google, 2017)
123

3.8.3 Malaccan Style
The steep central trussed roof is very dominant and usually carries a livable attic space. The roof design further
distinguishes the influences in each locality, making it easier to recognised from a Pahang house and so forth.
The most distinctive feature is the gracefully curved profile of the Negeri Sembilan roof which originates from the
Sumatran Minangkabao style. Traces of Bugis influences are also to be found in some of the Johor houses.
Figure 3.90 : View of a Negeri Sembilan house type (Google, 2017)
124

3.8.4 Perak House
The house is easily recognized by its graceful steep
roof. The characteristic change in pitch is very slight
and more often in the form of a gentle curved
surface.
Figure 3.91 : View of a Perak house type (Google, 2017)
Malay houses at east coast has a tiered roofs with
curved gable ends, a feature that is not found on
houses on the west coast. The roof is usually
covered with singhorra tiles, named after the town,
Songkhla where the tiles originate. Gently curved
peles (gabes ends) are fitted to the ends of the roof
overhangs, giving the houses a distinctive
appearance.
Figure 3.92 : View of a Kelantan house type
(Google, 2017)
3.8.5 East Coast
125

3.8.7 Malaccan Malay House
The court space, which is peculiar only to Malay houses in Malacca,
is an intimate and private interior open space in between the rumah
ibu and the dapur. This space is the wet core of the house where the
washing, drying and toilet areas are situated. It is often beautifully
decorated with flowers and plants, therefore it became the favourite
resting place for the users. Sometimes, informal guests, especially
ladies, are often entertained here.
3.8.6 Spatial Layout
In terms of spatial layout, though most of the Malay houses are
following the principal layout from the traditional ones, there are
modifications made in order to adequate the lifestyle of users in
different states of Malaysia.
Figure 3.93 : Example layout of Malay
house in Malacca (Google, 2017)
126

Figure 3.94: Example layout of Perak Malay
House (Google, 2017)
3.8.8 Perak Malay House
Malay houses in Perak often has a zig-zag layout. The kitchen is in a separate structure, connecting rumah ibu with a
selang, a roofless platform. This house has a bedroom within the rumah ibu compound that is separated by a timber
partition. As shown in the figure, there is an area of gap-floor construction where timber planks are arranged with gaps
between them . Apart from the religious use(bathing the family’s deceased), this area allows air movement from
underneath the floor to the rumah ibu space.There are plenty of perimeter windows on the rumah ibu’s walls as well as
additional openings on the roof surfaces. This contradicts with the dapur that has only two small windows on its opposite
walls.
127

4.1 INTRODUCTION
Malay traditional houses usually use local resources from the natural surrounding environment to build
their houses. The materials used in Malay traditional houses are usually those found locally in the jungles. Collecting
woods was one of the main career in the village. The basic building materials are usually timber or bamboo, in which
timber is usually used for the main structure while the bamboo is used for the walls and thatched roof. These
materials promote coolness in the house due to its low thermal capacity.
Figure 4.1 & Figure 4.2 : Ancient people chop down trees and transport the tress to site from forest
(Noenkcahyana,2012)
129

Using renewable natural materials including timber and bamboo, the dwellings are often built without the use
of metal including nails. Instead pre-cut holes and grooves are used to fit the timber elements into one another,
effectively making it a 'prefabricated house'.
Although nails had been invented and in later houses used minimally for non-structural elements (for
example, windows or panels), structural flexibility was a benefit which nailing inhibited. Without nails, a timber house
could be dismantled and reconstructed in a new location. Most of the ancient Malay peoples of South-East Asia
maintained a form of self-regenerating environmental culture.
Figure 4.3 & Figure 4.4 : These buildings were not using any nails for construction but now a days, it start corroesive ,
therefore people used nails to protect both of this meaningful buildings (Quinn,2017)
130

In different social status, they even classify certain class of wood for their respective classes.
For example, :
Types of Wood Features of Wood
Bottom Sectors
(Orang Bawahan)
- Kayu Biasa Kayu Biasa can be defined as a soft
hardwood or a light hardwood. Examples of
Kayu Biasa are Ara, Bintagor, Podo and etc.
The trunk of these trees are lighter than
usual.
Priest
(Imam)
- Kayu Nyatu - Atap Rumbia / Nipah Kayu Nyatu is a type
of medium hardwood.
It usually grows in a
seasonal climate.
Atap Rumbia / Nipah
is a common
resource found and
used since the
ancient Malay era.
Noble
(Bangsawan)
- Chengal - Kayu Jati Kayu Jati is a type of
hardwood. Kayu Jati
typically grows in
tropical climate.
Chengal is also
known as a type od
hardwood. The trunk
of the tree is heavy
and dark coloured.
131

4.3 TRADITIONAL SYSTEM AND MEASUREMENTS
Measurement based on the human body (usually the hands and arms of the carpenters, but on some
occasions of the women of the house) are used also by the Malays. Human proportions and dimensions has been
traditionally a basis of measurement throughout these buildings . This was a result of human instinct to fulfill their
fundamental needs of buildings their own indigenous house for shelter and protection.
The longest unit of measurement in human body is ‘depa’ – the dimension between the tips of the fingers
of the horizontally outstrech arms often used to measure lengthy objects and wide spaces. The smallest unit is one
‘jari’ or the width of a finger. One ‘jari’ or more is often used to measure smaller elements.
Figure 4.7 & Figure 4.8 : The unit of measurements in Depa system
(Sastrabali,2016)
132

4.2 TOOLS AND MATERIALS
Simple tools that were used to chopped down trees from forest and Malay woodcarving consist of an
assortment of chisels, kapak , parang , hammers ,files and others . Some tools are self – made and some others can
be bought from stores. In recent times, the changes of technology expand and create new tools such as motorized
chainsaw and a drill called band saw are used to speed up the work of woodcarving. The band saw has a long , thin
blade welded into a loop and is an electric motor powers that blade around two large wheels that removes the
unwanted part of the panel before the actual carving work is done.
Figure 4.5 & Figure 4.6 : Ancient people used Kapak and Parang to chop down trees (Asalsilat,2015)
133

4.4 BUILDING MATERIALS - TIMBER
Timber is one of the dominant materials that had been used in Malay traditional houses and surau. In this Malay
traditional house and surau , they usually use kayu jati , chengal and jelutong to build the Malay traditional houses ,
because it can last for hundred of years , and is a good heat insulator that helps to keep the interior at optimum
temperatures. It is used in main structure such as posts and lintels , tie beams , girts and roof structure they nomarlly ,and
secondary structure such as , rafter ,floor joists , wall studs , window frames and door frames due to its high strength.
Timber floors ,walls ,staircase ,doors and windows also can frequently be found among this two traditional buildings. Apart
from that , timber is easy to work with as most of the ornaments and detailings are directly carved and shaped onto it.
Figure 4.9 & Figure 4.10 : Exterior façade view of traditional Malay house and surau (Iddin,2017)
134

POST AND LINTEL
The posts, called “tiang” ,which carry the weight of the roof directly to the ground, measure at least 12 centimetres
square. The crossbeams supporting the floor are mortised through the posts and secured by timber wedges, wile girts
and tie beams at the top of the posts hold the posts in position and form the base of the roof. Various types of joints
and connectors have been developed by Malay carpenters to allow the house to be built in stages , and also to allow it
to be dismantled and re-erected elsewhere.
Figure 4.11 : Exterior post and lintel (Quinn,2017)
135

WALL
The walls of the earliest Malay houses were formed by bamboo, woven into panels using traditional patterns and
reinforces with timber stuck . The floors were laid with strips of bamboo .More frequently, the wall and floorboards of
the Malay house are made of a moderately strong wood .The wallboards are arranged either vertically ,diagonally or
horizontally ,or in combination .On the external walls are rows of shuttered openings, made of solid timber panels or
timber louvres. Carved or latticed panels above and below the windows and doors allow air and light into the Malay
house.
Figure 4.12 : Exterior Wall (Iddin,2017)
136

ROOF STRUCTURE
The system of framing the roof skeleton has advantages. Within the basic construction system, all different lengths
can be spanned with equal sized members. The rafters may vary according to the depth of the building, but the size
of the building does not affect the stress on any member and consequently does not require separate dimensioning
for each structure.
Figure 4.13 : Interior roof structure (Quinn,2017)
137

STAIRCASE
The traditional Malay house require stairs to reach the elevated interior. Usually the stairs are connected to the land,
directly situated in front of the house to the “Serambi” (porch or verandah). Additional stairs might be found at the
back of the house. The stairs is be made of wood with beatiful ”ukiran” or brick structure covered with tiles.
Figure 4.14 : Beautiful Ornaments on staircase
(Iddin,2017)
Figure 4.15 : Exterior staircase
,Surau
(Iddin,2017)
138

JOISTS
Figure 4.16 : Pasak known as nail but is made of
wood .These technique ws used to interlock the
steps with the outer striger
(Quinn,2017)
Figure 4.17 : Detail showing junction of tie beam,
column and joist. The floor joist is jointed to the
column
(Quinn,2017)
139

ORNAMENTS (UKIRAN)
Figure 4.18 : Ornaments help these buildings improvement air ventilation and the beauty of the house
(Iddin,2017)
140

BEDUK
The beduk is made of a double-barreled drum with water buffalo leather on the sides. Normally beduk is made up
from tree trunk , pokok Nangka .It is is a round-shaped instrument that is elongated lengthwise, and is suspended
from a rack and played with a padded mallet. The role of the beduk in the Malay community especially in the
Malay Archipelago is non-musical.
Instead, it is an instrument for religious purposes especially in the mosques and surau . Normally the beduk is
used to signal prayer time.
Figure 4.19 & Figure 4.20 : Beduk that located at ground floor of the Malay traditional surau
(Iddin,2017)
141

Atap Rumbia was one of material that easily found in Malay traditional house for the ancient generation. Atap rumbia
need to change it between 10 to 15 years .While for the small cracking part , they just used a piece of atap rumbia to
replace it . Except daun rumbia, daun nipah also can bee use as atap nipah. The diffrences between atap rumbia and
atap nipah is atap rumbia will last longer than atap nipah. Atap rumbia can last 10 more years than atap nipah if they
install it with a correct way , so atap rumbia is very suitable for houses or gazebo ,who placed at outdoor.
Figure 4.24 : Interior look sof Atap Rumbia
(Quinn,2017)
Figure 4.25 : Exterior looks of Atap Rumbia
(Quinn,2017)
142

4.5 BUILDING MATERIALS - ATAP RUMBIA
Atap Rumbia is one of the types of atap ,which is a construction material that produced by leaves of pokok Rumbia .
Usually atap Rumbia consist from ‘tulang’ or known as ”bengkawan’ , that composed from pokok Buluh or kayu kecil that
are folded in Rumbia leaves to shape it like a ‘sayap’ and sew it using rattan or the surface of pokok Bemban to tighten it.
Each atap Rumbia is between 1.5 meter to 1.8 meter length , the leaf is folded with the same length as others leaves.The
reason for this ,is to increase the neatly and dignified shape of the roof . A professional roof maker can produce 80 to 90
atap rumbia a day. The task of a roof maker was very difficult because it requires great patience and good observation.
Figure 4.21 : Pokok
Bemban
(Alamendah.,2011)
Figure 4.23 : Pokok
Rumbia
(Learnmelanau,2011)
Figure 4.22 : Pokok
Buluh
(Warisanpetani,2016)
143

Atap Rumbia have other advantages such as it provides more cooling effect as it does not retain heat like the roof tiles.
Atap rumbia is able to last more than ten years compared to atap nipah, because atap nipah needs to be changed
every three to five years. Atap nipah leaves has to been soaked with some chemical subtancesin order to last for
another six to eight years. In addtion, it will be easier to arrange, because it is much softer and not easily to break.
Figure 4.26 : Worker ties all the daun Rumbia
together using Rotan.
(Fenditazkirah,2013)
Figure 4.27 : Daun Rumbia basks in the sun
(Amlubai-kerabat,2015)
144

4.6 BUILDING MATERIALS - IRON BAR
The iron was used significantly lesser extent compared to timber. This material is exclusively used for the iron bars that is
located at the interior side of the windows. This applies to both the house and surau. The most likely reason for this under
usage is because it does not fit with the construction methods of the Malays from the past, that focuses more on the
implementation of nature in both design and construction. The house used to be a place to exhibit the life of Malay culture in
Kedah, using the house as a representation of the cultural background and opened for the public. Thus, the iron bars were
added in as a safety measure to prevent children from being able to climb out from the windows and hurt themselves. These
bars were pre-fabricated and installed on-site afterwards. This was done a long time ago as ithas became rusty.
Figure 4.28 : Iron bar was setting on window frame (Iddin,2017)
145

4.7 BUILDING MATERIALS - CONCRETE
Concrete is a mixture of cement, sand and gravel or other aggregate and water.This material can be found on exposed
foundation and bottom of the staircase. Concrete is easily formed to a wide variable of shapes and sizes. Although
concrete has high compression strength, it is weak in terms of tensile strength, therefore it is a brittle material. The lack in
tension strength made the steel required to be used in conjunction with the concrete for strengthening and reinforcing
purposes. The combination of the material, concrete and steel rebar are better known as “Reinforced Concrete'. The
advantages of using the reinforced concrete is it's great compressive and tension strength and better fire resistance than
steel.
Figure 4.29 : Exposed Foundation (Iddin,2017)
146

5.1 BASIC CONSTRUCTION OF TRADITIONAL MALAYHOUSE
Both the Traditional Sungai Ular House and the Surau Haji Abdul
Rahman Abdullah uses a complex jointing system which supports
on timber wedges to stay sturdy for its strength.The jointing system
is standardised and prefabricated so that it takes less time and effort
to assemble it on the spot. Furthermore, the parts can be easily
dismantled and reassembled elsewhere should there be a need to
move to another location to live.
These two buildings use traditional timber post and lintel structures
and has evolved a prefabricated building system which is flexible
and goes with the demands and needs of the users. The users can
opt to make extensions on the house according to the type of space
and function they need. In the construction, mortise and tenon, lap
and dovetail joints were used while the usage of wooden dowels
came before metal nails in the olden days to connect joints and
secure the columns.
This is the main feature of a Malay traditional house that makes it
unique.
INTRODUCTION
Figure 5.1 : Basic Construction of Traditional
House (Yuan, 1987)
148

CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
Firstly, the construction of the house begins with the main house
called “rumah ibu”, followed by the entrance porch known as
“anjung”, veranda as “serambi” and the kitchen “rumah dapur”.
These are constructed suited according to the needs and
requirements of the owner’s family.
To start the construction of a basic Malay house,the first column,
known as “tiang seri” is placed and located in the middle of the
house. Meanwhile, other structural components like the timber
posts and girts are laid in their respective positions. After every
one of the posts and girts have been erected and supported, top
girts and king posts are then set up at both sides. The roof ridge
supported by king post is then placed, and next the roof
structures such as principal rafters, purlins and common rafters
are put up. Finally, the non-structural components are placed to
make the house an enclosed structure.
Figure 5.2: The Setting up of a basic traditional
Malay House Form (Yuan,1967)
149

GALLERY
1. The villagers lifting a column that was
installed with the long beams.
2. Eight of the columns have been erected
along with the two long beams. The board
installed on the column is to resist or hold
the column from falling.
3. Workers installing the framework of the
house.
4. Hammering the frames together to make
it secure.
5. The processes of installing the Palm or
Nipah roofs for shade from the sun and
rain.
Figure 5.3 : Construction process of traditional Malay House (memori-
Kedah, 2017)
150

5.2FOUNDATION/COLUMN CONSTRUCTION
INTRODUCTION
A column is the vertical structural component that is designed to support and
transmit compressive loads from the ceiling or roof slab and beam, including its
own weight to the foundation.Therefore, it is understood that if the column fails to
support the load, the entire structure shall collapse.
The type of foundation used in the Sungai Ular House and the Surau Haji Abdul
Rahman Abdullah is shallow foundation which more specifically is pad foundation.
Pad foundations are used to support an individual point load such as that due to a structural column. Using post and
lintel structures, the timber posts rest on concrete or stone footings. The column posts, called tiang, measure at least
12 cm square, carry the weight of the roof directly to the ground. The plinths or footings are made of concrete stumps
to prevent them from sinking into the ground.
Figure 5.4: Concrete Footing
and foundation of the two
traditional buildings
(Iddin,2017)
Figure 5.5: Placing of Column and Footing of Surau
Haji Abdul Rahman Abdullah (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.6: Placing of Column and Footing of Sungai
Ular House (Quinn, 2017)
151

Construction Process of Footing and Column (Pad Footing/ “Pelapik tiang”)
1. Square formwork is built using wood.
2. Reinforcement rebars are placed in erected formwork.
3. Concrete mixture is poured into the formwork and allowed to set
4. Footing formwork is removed after concrete is set, cured and hardened to
gain maximum strength.
5. A steel rod is also set into place in the middle of the stump to anchor the
timber column onto the footing.
Figure 5.7: Set up of Foundation formwork steps.(cgetechnology,2011)
Figure 5.8: Column
Construction detail with steel
rod connecting the footing
sketch (Dana, 2017)
152

5.3 TIMBER FLOORSYSTEM
INTRODUCTION
The floor system used in the Traditional Kedah House
and Surau is constructed with a series of timber joists
supported by bearers which are suspended between 4.5
metres to 5.5metres above ground.The floor joists are
exposed to vertical stress of weight from the column posts
to the plinths(footings). The floorboards are of chengal
wood with thickness of 25mm to 35mm laid directly across
floor joists. The raised platform is beneficial and designed
for ventilation and shading in the hot and humid tropical
climate.
Figure 5.9: View upwards from lower ground of the
timber joist system with floorboards laid across the
joists (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.10: Exposed joists and beams seen from
below of Surau Haji Abdul Reahman Abdullah
(Quinn, 2017)
153

At the back of the kitchen in the traditional Kedah House
however, the “pelantar” or open platform was different
compared to the other timber boards of the two buildings. This
was probably an extension which the users sourced the easily
ready materials of round unpolished tree trunks from their
surroundings as they live near paddy fields and forests.
The round trunks are tied side by side with rattan and is
secured with two joists on the front and ends with nails. This
open platform was used as a place for washing clothes and
dishes.
Figure 5.11: Usage of round timber joists for
the open-air “pelantar”(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.12: Connection details of nails
for round timber joists (Quinn, 2017)
154

CONSTRUCTION DETAILS
Jointing and connections in the traditional buildings are
normally secured with the use of wooden dowels and
wedges in place of the metal nails that we use today.
These small wooden pegs allow the parts of the house
to be locked at their respective places, effectively
making it safe and stable for the users to step on or rest
below.
Figure 5.13: Usage of dowels to secure parts (Quinn,
2017)
Figure 5.14: Beam to Column Connection Detail with
wedges sketch (Dana, 2017)
155

-MORTISE&TENONJOINT
All joints in the timber flooring of the two traditional buildings
are connected using mortise and tenon joint made of wood.
This technique is also known as tongue-and-groove and
slotting method.
The beam is slotted into the column while the tenon locks into
the mortise. The joists are slotted perpendicularly on the
beam in rows on which the timber floorboards are laid across
as the flooring. As it is suspended above the ground, the
exposed joist and beam can be seen from the ground floor.
Figure 5.15: Basic Mortise and Tenon Joint
detail sketch (Dana, 2017)
Figure 5.16: Detail of Spacing of the joists
resting upon the beam.in the traditional Sungai
Ular House (Quinn, 2017)
156

-LAPJOINT
Moreover, another type of connection method they use to attach the parts together is by using lap joints. This is
made by overlapping two edges or or half-cut through the width of the timber to fasten them together.
Figure 5.17: Basic lap joint sketch
(Dana, 2017)
Figure 5.18: An example of the post and beam
being recessed to secure to one another (Dana,
2017)
157

5.4 WALLSYSTEM
Since the structural frame carries most of the load, the wall panels are light and do not bear heavy structural weight. The
walls of the Surau and the traditional house are made of timber wall panels which rely on a standard framing system
according to the columns of the building. The construction of a timber framed wall is a clean, efficient and dry operation.
The timbers can be cut and assembled with simple hand or power operated tools and once the wall is raised into position
and fixed, it is ready to receive wall finishes(panels).
Figure 5.19: Construction detail of Wall system and
floor system (picrevise, 2017)
158

Besides that, the spacing of the poles or posts of the house and
surau are designed and planned carefully in terms of space and
structural requirements. This can be illustrated with the height of the
lower ground floor as it should be accessible by people and a semi-
protected space is created underneath for storage as well as
keeping domestic animals. The “tiang seri” of the surau and the
house are spaced between 3 to 4 metres apart and are able to
support the vertical loads and bearers while resisting force by the
wind.
Finally, the next step to complete the house is adding the wall
panels. The wooden planks are orientated differently according to
the space and framework of the building. Most of the planks are
placed vertically and sandwiched between the framework of the
house and surau. However, the “rumah dapur” in the traditional
Kedah House was nailed horizontally with feather edge
weatherboarding across the stud frame (as shown). The panels are
angled as such to prevent entry of rain and allow for good ventilation
through the gaps when cooking.
Figure 5.21: Side view of
weatherboards on exterior wall
(agung1501, 2014)
Figure 5.20: External wall view of
Sungai Ular House (Quinn, 2017)
159

5.5 ROOF(INTRODUCTION)
There are two types of roofs for these two buildings. The
Sungai Ular House consists of the basic pitched roof called
side gable roofs and also sports the dutch gable roof,
which is a hybrid of a hip and gable.On the other hand, the
Surau Haji Abdul Rahman Abdullah mainly has the
previously mentioned dutch gable roof that is placed on top
of another roof layer which is the hip roof type. Both of
these roofs have large roof eaves to be able to give proper
shading from sunlight or from the rain. For the surau roof,
they have additional support from the columns. As with all
types of wood found in this house, it is coated with a layer
of diesel oil to conserve the building in general.
Figure 5.22: Kedah House showing its roof structure
(Quinn,2017)
Figure 5.23: The surau with a close view of its roof
(Quinn,2017)
160

CONSTRUCTION DETAIL
To begin the construction of the roof, the base of the roof must
first be built. This is done by placing girts (alang panjang) and tie
beams (alang pendek), which not only form the base of the
roof, but it also functions to strengthen the overall structure of
the roof.
Figure 5.24: Queen post truss (Google,2007)
Figure 5.25: Queen post truss seen in the
surau (Qayyum,2017)
The next construction step would be the erection of the queen
posts (tunjuk langit), which is extended from the tie beam, that
functions to support the roof ridge (tulang bumbung). The queen
post is an alternative to the king post and is built in such a way
due to the nature of the roof for both buildings. The vertical
posts of the queen post is supported by the sloping sides of the
truss.
161

CONSTRUCTION DETAIL
After the construction of these elements, the next step would be
the installation of the purlins (kasau lintan), which is supported
by the principal rafters of the queen post truss (kasau jantan).
The purlins along with the roof ridge boards act as links from one
queen post to another.
Figure 5.26: A clear view of the layers
consisting of purlins, principal rafters and the
common rafters (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.27: Zoomed in view of the ties
betwwen the atap layers (Quinn,2017)
After the purlins, the common rafters, known as kasau atap are
then erected. They are positioned on top of the aforementioned
purlins, so that it is properly supported. After all of the previous
steps have been done, the atap roofing is finally added in. In this
case, the material of the atap is called atap Nipah/rumbai. The
atap roofing material is sewn in overlapping layers onto the
common rafters using rotan to complete the construction of the
roof of both buildings.
162

ADVANTAGE&DISADVANTAGE
Because the atap roofing has low thermal capacity, this makes it
a reliable heat insulator, meaning it does not readily allow the
passage of heat through it. Furthermore, the ventilated roof
space facilitates in the cooling of the house as a compensation
from the lack of electrical fans back in the pre-Independence era.
As previously mentioned, the house has large roof eaves so that
it can provide effective shading.
Figure 5.28: A full view of the surau and its
roof system (Quinn,2017)
Figure 5.29: The material used for the atap of
both of the buildings (Quinn,2017)
Being an atap rumbai roof, the material will become less
effective against rainwater the more it gets exposed to it. This
will allow rainwater to seep through in the long term. Being made
from a natural material, the atap is also more vulnerable to fire
risk than conventional roof coverings.
ADVANTAGE
DISADVANTAGE
163

GALLERY
Figure 5.30 (Top left) :
Construction details on the lowest
layer roof, supported by the front
columns (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.31 (Top right) : The ridge
board of the roof, connects two
queen post truss along with the
purlins (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.32 (Bottom left) :
Additional detail highlighting the
rafters underneath the roof eaves
(Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.33 (Bottom right) :
Zoomed out view of the roof
details with an additional beam
(with ceiling fan) supporting the
structure (Qayyum,2017)
164

5.6 STAIRCASE(INTRODUCTION)
The staircase of the staircase is similar to the construction of other parts of the building in that it completely lacks the
usage of nails in its original construction. Although some parts of the building have adopted the use of nails in recent
times due to the introduction of new technology and construction methods, the staircases in particular remain mostly the
same with some minor changes. These changes are made largely because of conservation purposes and as a result it is
able to retain its natural condition. An element of crafting is present at one particular staircase in that floral elements are
carved into it to express nature.
Figure 5.34: A perspective view of the
staircase at the surau (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.35: Woodcarved stairs found at the
verandah of the house (Jiyann,2017)
165

CONSTRUCTION DETAIL
The staircase of both buildings have roughly the same method of construction. As mentioned before, the staircase, like
many parts of the building adopted the construction method of using timber joints to connect individual parts to become a
whole structure. This construction method was used mainly because of the lack of modern technologies and methods in
Malaysia in the past before the British came to this country.
Figure 5.36: Unexploded Axonometric of
stairs at the surau (Measured Drawing
Team Kedah Traditional House,2017)
Figure 5.37: Exploded Axonometric of stairs
at the surau, highlighting which joints should
be connected (Measured Drawing Team
Kedah Traditional House,2017)
166

CONSTRUCTION DETAIL
One interesting feature that is found on the staircases at the
surau is that it consists of concrete steps that is joined together
with the usual wooden steps. The reason for this to have been
the case is partly due to the shortage in amount of natural
resources compared to a few decades back. Also as mentioned
before, it may have been due to the influence of the British when
they came to Malaysia. It results in the
revolutionizing of construction.
Figure 5.38: A hybrid of concrete and wood
makes the staircase unique (Qayyum,2017)
Figure 5.39: The treenail (pasak) used to lock
the joints in place (Quinn,2017)
Both houses feature treenails (pasak) in its construction. A
treenail is essentialy a wooden nail that was used in place of the
conventional nails we use today, to retain its usage of natural
elements and inspiration from natural surroundings. Its function
for the staircase specifically is to safely secure and strengthen
the overall structure. Each of them are placed on top of the joints
at the side of the first, fourth and seventh wooden steps.
167

5.7 WINDOWS
INTRODUCTION
Non structural components such as windows and doors
come in almost last in the construction process. Yet, the
location of these openings are planned carefully and the
framework for these ceiling to floor openings are set
according to the function and needs of the room. For
example, the rumah ibu has the most windows aligning its
walls as it is the main room of the house to receive
guests. Much light and views are needed to reach the
maximum potential for this space.
The placement and size of the windows and doors played
a very important role in the traditional Sungai Ular Kedah
House and surau. There were many windows and
openings to function as the air filter and to ventilate clean
and cool air throughout the house. This is also to ensure
the the health and comfort of the occupants.
Figure 5.41: Main Floor Plan of Surau Haji Abdul
Rahman Abdullah sketch (Dana, 2017)
Figure 5.40: Main Floor Plan of Sungai Ular
House indicating the placement of windows and
doors sketch (Dana, 2017)
168

There are mainly two types of window on each of the buildings. One type is louvred window shutters which have
horizontal slats that are angled to admit light and air, but to keep out rain and direct sunshine. The angle of the horizontal
slats can be adjusted by using a wooden lever mechanism to control the amount of light and air coming in.
The second type and most common window type in the traditional Malay house is the double casement windows. These
windows are adorned with beautiful decorative carvings. Furthermore, the windows are hinged at the side and can swing
open at 180° at full length, allowing maximum access of sunlight and view.
Figure 5.42: Louvred
window shutters in
surau.(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.43: Louvred
window Detail
Drawing (Measured
Drawing Team
Kedah Traditional
House ,2017)
Figure 5.44: Double casement
windows.(Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.45: Double
casement window
Detail Drawing
(Measured Drawing
Team Kedah
Traditional House
,2017)
169

5.8 DOORS
INTRODUCTION
Doors give entry and privacy to the occupants of the house. As such, in traditional Malay culture, there are different
doors placed in different parts of the house because entry of men and women are supposed to be separated.
One type of door found in the Sungai Ular house and surau is known as Double Hinged Door. This door can be found
as the main entrance for both of the buildings.
Another type of door found in the kitchen of the Sungai Ular House is known as a Sliding Door. The sliding door has a
slotting mechanism that allows the door to be opened fully by pushing towards the side. It can also be secured with a
lock on top. A wooden bar is placed in the middle to use as a door handle to slide open the door.
Figure 5.46: Double
hinged door (Quinn, 2017)
Figure 5.47: Double Hinged door detail
drawing (Measured Drawing Team
Kedah Traditional House, 2017)
Figure 5.48: Sliding Door detail drawing
(Measured Drawing Team Kedah
Traditional House, 2017)
170

The construction of the doors are of mortise and tenon joint. They are connected to the wooden frames using steel
hinges which allow them to swing at 90° to open and close. The doors swing open towards the inside and have a width
of 75cm to 80cm opening. Moreover, the frames of the doors are roughly 6cm wide on both sides and the thickness of
the door is 3cm to 5cm. The doors are prefabricated before being installed in the house.
Figure 5.49: Door frame
detail of the double hinged
door (Zulkifli,1999)
Figure 5.50: Mortise and tenon
joint detail (Zulkifl, 1999)
Figure 5.51: Mortise and tenon joint
detail of the door frame (Zulkifli,
1999)
171

6.1TIMBERDEFECTS
Although the best of efforts have been made to conserve these two buildings,
it is naturally inevitable that some defects occured throughout its
conservation period. Examples of such defects include the defects in building
material. Since a majority of wood that was used for both buildings were from
its original construction, it is natural that they have undergone several
changes in durability and texture. These pieces of wood are not as strong as
it used to be years ago due to its old age. Most of the wood also contain
moulds on it which was also caused by its old age.
In terms of its appearance, a lot of these wood pieces contain cracks and
some chunks of wood have been peeled off from the original piece, resulting
in a less durable structure overall. Being materials that came from possibly
decades ago, the wood also has a noticeable loss in colour compared to
its more modern counterparts as it has faded over the years.
Figure 6.1: The moulds from one of the
pieces of wood under the floor boards
(Jiyann,2017)
Figure 6.2: Some of the appearance
defects of the wood used for both
buildings (Jiyann,2017)
173

6.2 COLUMN DEFECTS
Other building defects include the deterioration of some column on both the
buildings. This particular defect is usually caused by the attack of termites. It
could also be caused by its long period of usage (which could be decades at
this point) as all the columns retain the original pieces of wood they were
constructed with.
Another defect that was detected was on the woodcarving aspect located at
the house. What was observed what that several woodcavings in the house
appeared to be broken and began to fall apart. Some pieces that were
broken were able to be placed back at its original place by tying it up using
strings while some others are completely absent leaving gaps in between
carvings.
Figure 6.3: A zoomed in view of the
deterioration some of the columns
suffer (Quinn,2017)
Figure 6.4: Woodcarving defect
(Iddin,2017)
6.3 WOODCARVING DEFECTS
174

6.4 WINDOWS DEFECTS
Besides that, it was discovered that some of the windows on site were in a
very fragile state, although it seemed to be in normal condition. This was
only discovered when an attempt to open the window was done in order to
receive ventilation. It was probably because of this defect that some of the
windows were coiled to prevent it from being opened.
As for the interior defect, the windows are also guilty of having some
defects. One of them would be the iron bars that is placed before the
actual windows. Some of the iron bars were found to be in a rather rusty
condition. This was most likely caused by exposure to rainwater that seeps
through the atap roofing and this is combined by exposure to oxygen (air),
thus the rusting on the bars. Furthermore, some of the iron bars were
completely absent from its supposed position due to unknown reasons.
In addition some of its woodcarving patterns are also missing.
FIgure 6.5: View of the remains of one of
the broken windows (Dana,2017)
Figure 6.6: The rusting found on the iron
bars at the interior side of the window
(Qayyum,2017)
175

6.5 ROOF DEFECTS
Further exploration of the house and surau enabled us to identify more
defects such as the defect on the atap portion of the roof system. From
what we have observed, there is a considerably large hole in between
the ties of the atap. This defect on the roof will create problems in terms
of its efficiency as a place of shelter. Because water can still seep through
the atap even when it fully covers the house, the hole will only allow more
rainwater into the interior of the house and therefore it is not very safe
particularly if rainfall were to occur.
Besides those mentioned above, one of the staircases, specifically the
main entrance of the surau has one defect at the last tread of the stairs.
The tread seems slightly shakyand therefore it is not as reinforced as the
rest of the treads. This minor defect will become a major defect if left
unchecked as it can completely break down and can potentially harm
visitors.
Figure 6.7: The gaping hole found on the
atap (Quinn,2017)
6.6 STAIRCASE DEFECTS
176

7.1 GROUPDISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
REFLECTION
Throughout this assignment, we were able to experience and develop ourselves in many aspects. To have a chance to
get hands-on experience to document a building has been quite a unique experience for us. The lessons learnt from the
process of documentation and measuring will be precious to us in future fieldworks. Furthermore, the intensiveness of
this assignment demands that we hone our skills in workload and time management which is not possible without good
teamwork. For example, having meetings and discussions to overcome obstacles and limitations one after another as a
team has been quite a hectic experience.
From the measuring process, we were able to learn of the most efficient methods of measuring by separating workloads
and planning our time well. During the drawing process, we were met with limitations of the inexperience to use
software programs of some members. Through guidance and experimentation, everyone was able to further develop
their drawings skills. Through the report, we ensured proper planning by having good communication and teamwork
with each other. Lastly, the model making process has been a very memorable experience as it requires absolute
attention to detail.
Finally, the ultimate lesson gained from this assignment is to ensure proper communication and teamwork to achieve
maximum efficiency. Also, to be able to gain in-depth information of traditional Malay architecture and culture. We
appreciate the opportunity given to us to experience this in such an intimate manner.
178

7.2REFERENCES
A BRIEF HISTORY OF MALAYSIA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 25, 2017, from http://www.localhistories.org/malaysia.html
Adib Ramli, Mahasiswa at UiTM Seri Iskandar, Fakulti Senibina, Perancangan dan UkurFollow. (2015, May07). Project of
traditionalMalay house. Retrieved February26, 2017, from http://www.slideshare.net/adibramli/project-of-traditional-malay-
house
Chen, Voon Fee. The encyclopedia of Malaysia: architecture. Singapore: Archipelago Press, 1998. Print
Darul Aman Stadium. (2017, February 11). Retrieved February 18, 2017, from
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darul_Aman_Stadium
document, source URL, {, index Of, s. L., s +w+-w+h, s. { =, size URL, paths =, & Gayo, H. (2015, August 9). Kedah.
Retrieved February 26, 2017, from https://en.climate-data.org/location/759988/
F. (2012, April 03). Binaan rumah melayu tradisional,. Retrieved February 19, 2017, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=7Mw-Ux8DrWg
Gang, D. B. (1970, January 01). Chapter 3 The Malay House. Retrieved February 19, 2017, from http://
seindahkampung.blogspot.my/2013/08/chapter-3-malay-house.html?m=1
179

7.2REFERENCES
Hanafi, Z. B., Dr. (1999). Siri Lukisan Terukur: Rumah Traditional Melayu Di Pulau Pinang. Kedah: Amber~Solara
Publication. Barry, R.(1996). Foundations,andOversiteConcrete,Walls,Floors,Roofs
(6thed.,Vol.1,TheConstructionofBuildings).London: Blackwell Science Ltd.
Janzen, A. (2015, May 27). Vernacular Architecture in Malaysia. Retrieved February 25, 2017, from
http://connorjanzen.com/vernacular-malaysia/
Kamal, K. S., & profile, V. my complete. (2007, March ). Architectural design of traditional Malay house. Retrieved February
26, 2017, from http://buildingconservation.blogspot.my/2007/03/architectural-design-of-traditional.html
Kedah information / tourit attractions / Malaysia culture / sightseeing tours / Kedah Malaysia. Retrieved February 26, 2017,
from http://www.2malaysia.com/kedah/culture.htm
Kuroda, K. (n.d.). The Siamese in Kedah under nation-state making . Retrieved February 19, 2017, from http://www.uni-
muenster.de/Ethnologie/South_Thai/working_paper/Kuroda_Kedah.pdf
Lim, J. (2013, November 07). RUMAH KEDAH. Retrieved February 20,2017, from https://prezi.com/tlpkhadomkow/rumah-
kedah/
180

7.2REFERENCES
Malay Houses. (2012, January 02). Retrieved February 22, 2017, from
https://vernaculararchitecture.wordpress.com/2011/12/30/hello-world/
Penubuhan PSM. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2017, from http://www.psm.org.my/index.php/imbasan-
sejarah/penubuhan-psm
Sahabuddin, M. M. (n.d.). Chapter 2: Malaysian Vernacular Architecture and Its Relationship to Climate. Retrieved
February 23, 2017, from
https://www.academia.edu/2377416/Chapter_2_Malaysian_Vernacular_Architecture_and_Its_Relationship_to_Climate
Sahabuddin, M. M. (n.d.). Chapter 2:Malaysian VernacularArchitecture and ItsRelationship to Climate. Retrieved February
26, 2017,
fromhttp://www.academia.edu/2377416/Chapter_2_Malaysian_Vernacular_Architecture_and_Its_Relationship_to_Climate
Sung, W.W.(1995). Timber structuresin Malaysian architecture andbuildings (Unpublished master's thesis). University of
Tasmania at Launceston. Retrieved February 22, 2017, from http://eprints.utas.edu.au/21980/1/whole_WongWai-
Sung1997_thesis.pdf
Terms, P. I. (2017). RUMAH KEDAH. Retrieved February 26, 2017, from https://prezi.com/tlpkhadomkow/rumah-kedah/
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7.2REFERENCES
The Concept of Privacy and the Malay Dwelling Interior Space Planning☆. (n.d.). Retrieved February 22, 2017, from
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877042813021095
The Traditional Malay House. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2017, from
http://unossc1.undp.org/GSSDAcademy/SIE/Docs/Vol4/Malay_house.pdf
The Traditional Malay House. (n.d.). Retrieved February 22, 2017, from
https://books.google.com.my/books?id=_1vb4mZU6dIC&pg=PA26&lpg=PA26&dq=malay%2Bhouse%2Bdoor&source=bl&
ots=WyemX3jKY4&sig=RAEqeYCvV7B9tkIMpmmH6I2a8m0&hl=en&sa=X&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=malay%20house
%20door&f=false
Top 15 Roof Types & Their Pros & Cons - Read Before you Build! (2017, January 10). Retrieved February 19, 2017, from
http:// www.roofcalc.net/top-15-roof-types-and-their-pros-cons/#gable%20roof
182

7.3GLOSSARY
Anjung – a covered porch
Atap - leaves from a nipa palm that are used for covering the top of a building or a roof in Malaya.
Bumbung – translates to roof
Calligraphy – a type of Islamic crafting art
Carvings - an object or design cut from a hard material as an artistic work.
Dowels - a peg of wood
Gable Roof - a roof with two sloping sides and a gable at each end.
Gagak Sura - Gagak Sura winged creature theme use for illustrious occasion. The legendary animals, for
example, the garuda, the God's vehicle
Gayong – a traditional Malay water gourd
Girts - a horizontal structural member in a framed wall.
Jari – translates to finger; also used as a traditional measurement
Jerejak – translates to window rails
183

7.3GLOSSARY
Joists - a length of timber or steel supporting part of the structure of a building, typically arranged in parallel
series to support a floor or ceiling.
Kapak – a Malayan axe
Kerawang – the openings for ventilations
Lattice - a structure consisting of strips of wood or metal crossed and fastened together with square or diamond-
shaped spaces left between
Level Tool - device for establishing a horizontal plane. It consists of a small glass tube containing alcohol or
similar liquid and an air bubble
Loteng - attic located under the gable of the rumah ibu
Meleh – translates to roof eaves
Mortise and Tenon - joint by which parts or objects are joined together by inserting tenon to mortise
Nibong - a Malay feather palm
Nipa palm - a palm tree with creeping roots, characteristic of mangrove swamps in India and the Pacific islands.
Ornamentations - things added to something to provide decoration.
Papan Cantik - rafter boards in Bahasa Melayu
184

7.3GLOSSARY
Parang – a Malayan machete
Pedestals - wooden frames of a window
Pelantar – an open platform for preparing food and washing clothes
Porch - a covered shelter projecting in front of the entrance of a building.
Post and Beam - a building system where strong horizontal elements are held up by strong vertical elements
with large spaces between them.
Prefabricated - manufacture sections to enable quick or easy assembly on site.
Purlins - a horizontal beam along the length of a roof, resting on a main rafter and supporting the common rafters
or boards.
Qibla - Sacred monument located in Mecca
Rafters - one of several internal beams extending from the eaves to the peak of a roof and constituting its
framework.
Random Error - an error in measurement caused by factors that vary from one measurement to another.
Rumah Dangau - a single-unit house and it is also the earliest form of traditional Malay house.
Rumah Dapur – a space used as a kitchen
185

7.3GLOSSARY
Rumah Ibu – the main area of the traditional Malay house, one of the most private and sacred space. This space
where people carry out prayers and rest.
Serambi – a narrow reception area
Surau – a prayer room
Tebar layar - a kind of woodcarving applied to roofs
Tempayan – a traditional Malay clay water vessel
Transom – also known as windows
Vernacular Architecture - an architectural style that is designed based on local needs, availability of construction
materials and reflecting local traditions.
Wudhu – an area to wash face
186

7.4APPENDICES
APPENDIX1(INTERVIEW)
Iddin: Selamat pagi Encik Zul. Kami dari Taylor’s University ingin melakukan temu bual bersama encik untuk mengetahui
dengan lebih lanjut tentang rumah tradisional dan surau ini.
Iddin: Good morning Mr. Zul. We are from Taylor's University and we wish to an interview with you to know
more about this traditional house and the surau.
Encik Zulkifli: Selamat pagi. Saya akan beritahu apa yang saya tahu tentang kedua-dua rumah ini.
Encik Zulkifli: Good morning. I will tell what I know about both these houses.
Iddin: Apakah nama bagi rumah tradisional ini dan bagaimana ia dipindahkan ke sini?
Iddin: What is the name of this traditional house and how was it relocated here?
Encik Zulkifli: Kita memanggilnya Rumah Sungai Ular. Sungai Ular merupakan nama tempat yang terletak di Kulim dan
rumah ini berasal dari Kampung Sungai Ular, Kulim. Ini merupakan rumah tradisional Kedah. Waris rumah ini tidak mahu
rumah ini rosak dan dia menyerahkan rumah ini kepada kami. Lalu, kita mengambil rumah ini sebagai contoh untuk
menunjukkan rumah ini adalah rumah tradisional negeri Kedah.

7.4APPENDICES
Encik Zulkifli: We call it the Sungai Ular House. Sungai Ular is a place located in Kulim and the house originated
from Kampung Sungai Ular, Kulim. This is a traditional home of Kedah. Beneficiaries of this house do not want
this house to be in a broken state and he gave us this house. Therefore, we took this house and used it as a way
to show an example of a tradisional of the state of Kedah.
Cham: Adakah tiap-tiap ukiran yang terdapat di rumah mempunyai makna?
Cham: Does every carvings found in the house have a meaning?
Encik Zulkifli: Salah satu sebab kita mengambil rumah ini adalah kerana reka bentuknya dan sebab yang kedua adalah
ukiran-ukiran yang terdapat di rumah itu menunjukkan motif dan corak ukiran tradisional Melayu. Corak-corak ini
kebanyakkannya berasal dari flora, ataupun alam semula jadi.
Encik Zulkifli: One of the reasons we took this house was due to its design and the second reason was that the
carvings found in the house shows the patterns and motifs of traditional Malay carving. These patterns mostly
derived from flora, or nature.
Iddin: Apakah perbezaan yang menyebabkan rumah tradisional Kedah berbeza dengan rumah tradisional di negeri lain?

7.4APPENDICES
Iddin: What are the differences that make the Kedah traditional house different with a traditional home from
other states?
Encik Zulkifli: Kalau mengikut falsafah orang Malaysia, ia bergantung kepada persekitaran, sebagai contoh di Kedah
orang Melayu duduk di pinggir hutan ataupun di tepi sawah. Jadi, rumah tradisional di Kedah kebiasaannya lebih tinggi
berbanding rumah-rumah tradisional di negeri-negeri lain. Sebab mereka membuat demikian adalah untuk mengelak
banjir dan sebagainya. Keduanya, mereka hendak menunjukkan kebijaksanaan orang Melayu. Kalau melakukan kajian,
reka bentuk rumah sebegini, ia akan menyebabkan adanya peredaran udara yang baik. Jadi, rumah ini sentiasa berada
dalam keadaan yang sejuk.
Encik Zulkifli: If following the philosophy of the people in Malaysia, it depends on the environment, for example
in Kedah, people usually lives at the edge of the forest or at the edge of the field. Thus, traditional house in
Kedah is usually higher compared to traditional homes in other states. The reason they do this is to avoid
floods and so on. Secondly, they want to show the wisdom of the Malays. If research was done, it is found that
the design of such houses will lead to good air circulation. So, the house is always in cool conditions.
Kwang Zhou: Adakah ukiran-ukiran yang terdapat di rumah ini hanya terdapat di Kedah ataupun negeri-negeri lain juga
menggunakan bentuk ukiran yang sama?

7.4APPENDICES
Kwang Zhou: Are carvings found in the house only available in Kedah or do the other states also use the same
form of carvings?
Encik Zulkifli: Kebiasaanya, untuk rumah tradisional Melayu, di mana-mana negeri pun mereka menggunakan motif yang
sama cuma ada sesetengah negeri mempunyai identiti sendiri.
Encik Zulkifli: Normally, the traditional Malay house in any state use the same motifs with only some states having
an identity of their own.
Iddin: Boleh encik jelaskan bahan yang digunakan untuk rumah ini?
Iddin: Could you explain the materials that was used for this house?
Encik Zulkifli: Kalau kita tengok kebiasaanya, mereka menggunakan bahan-bahan yang terdapat di persekitaran masing-
masing. Sebagai contoh untuk rumah ini, mereka menggunakan bahan semula jadi seperti kayu. Untuk kayu pula, ia
dibahagikan kepada 3 jenis. Bahan yang digunakan untuk rumah ini adalah kayu biasa dan gred rendah.
Encik Zulkifli: If we look at the norm, they use materials that are found in their surrounding environment

7.4APPENDICES
As an example for this house, they use natural materials such as wood. As for wood, it is divided into 3 types.
The material used for this house is common and low-grade wood.
Iddin: Adakah setiap darjat sosial mempunyai jenis kayu yang tersendiri?
Iddin: Does each social rank have its own type of wood?
Encik Zulkifli: Ya mereka mempunyai jenis kayu tersendiri. Jenis bahan yang digunakan menunjukkan status sosial.
Sebagaicontoh, rumah orang biasa atau orang bawahan kebiasaanya mengunnakan kayu atau papan yang biasa seperti
kayu nyatu, kayu yang murah dan berkualiti rendah. Untuk bumbung pula, mereka menggunakan atap rumbia atau atap
nipah. Untuk rumah orang yang kaya dan bangsawan, mereka menggunakan bahan-bahan yang lebih mahal seperti kayu
jati, kayu chengal dan reka bentuk rumah-rumah sebegini kebiasaanya nampak lebih hebat dan banyak ukiran. Bahan
yang digunakan untuk pula adalah tanah liat ataupun menggunakan kayunya sendiri.
Encik Zulkifli: Yes, they have their own type of wood. The type of material used is to show social status. As an
example, the homes of ordinary people or those from the lower class usually employ the usual timber or boards
such as normal wood, the kind that is cheap and of low quality. For the roof, they used the roof thatch or palm
fronds. As for the house for the rich and noble, they use materials that are more

7.4APPENDICES
expensive, such as teak, chengal wood and its design usually looks superior and has lots of carvings. Materials
used for its roof are either clay or using wood itself.
Iddin: Saya ada dengar pada zaman dahulu mereka tidak menggunakan paku untuk pembinaan rumah ini. Jadi, bagaimana
cara pembinaan rumah tradisional Kedah pada masa itu?
Iddin: I have heard that in the old days they did not use nails for the construction of this house. So, how what was
the method used for the construction of the Kedah traditional house at that time?
Encik Zulkifli: Konsep menggunakan paku ini hanya ada pada zaman yang lebih moden. Jadi, kalau mengikut cara
tradisional, rumah-rumah sebegini menggunakan tanggam. Tanggam ini kalau menggunakan bahasa ibunda bermaksud
sambungan-sambungan, iaitu sambungan menggunakan kayu dengan menebuk lubang pada kayu tersebut dan
menyambungnya mengikut lubang tersebut. Jika menggunakan paku, mereka tidak menggunakan besi untuk membuat
paku tersebut. Mereka menggunakan batang kayu itu sendiri untuk bertindak sebagai paku yang dipanggil pasak. Contoh
penggunaan pasak adalah pada tangga di kedua-dua bangunan tersebut. Jadi, kedua-dua tanggam dan pasak hanya
menggunakan kayu dan tidak ada sebarang besi yang digunakan.
Encik Zulkifli: The concept of using nails only came in during more modern times. Traditionally, how

7.4APPENDICES
they constructed the house is by using mortise. When spoken in the mother tongue language this means using
joints, for example the connection using wood by making holes in the wood and joining them by using the hole. If
using nails, they do not use iron to make the nails. Instead, they used wooden sticks itself to act as so-called nail
pegs. Example of usage for this is at the stairs at both buildings. So, both mortise and peg only utilised wood and
there was no use of iron nails whatsoever.
Iddin: Di surau ada tempat mengambil air sembahyang. Adakah itu dibina pada masa yang sama seperti surau tersebut?
Iddin: There is a ablution place at the surau. Was it built at the same time as the surau?
Encik Zulkifli: Tempat mengambil air sembahyang itu adalah tambahan. Konsepnya dahulu ialah surau atau masjid tidak
sama seperti zaman sekarang, di mana tempat mengambil air sembahyang ini ada dalam bangunan itu sendiri.
Pada masa dulu, tempat untuk mengambil air sembahyang dan tempat bermandi berada di luar. Di bangunan rumah,
tempat bermandi berada di belakang rumah dan tidak bersambung terus dengan rumah itu. Begitu juga dengan surau, di
mana tempat mengambil air sembahyang dibina berasingan dengan bangunan surau itu sendiri.
Encik Zulkifli: The ablution space was an addition to the surau. The concept of surau or mosque is not

7.4APPENDICES
the same as it is today, where the ablution space is in the building itself. During old times, a place for ablution and
bathing place is located outside. At the house, the bathing area is behind the house and is not directly connected
with the house. Similarly for the surau, the ablution space was built separately from the surau building itself.
Iddin: Dari segi perancangan dalam bangunan, bagaimanakah cara susunannya?
Iddin: In terms of the spatial organisation of the building, how was it arranged?
Encik Zulkifli: Secara asasnya, di depannya kita panggil serambi. Ruang pertama apabila sudah masuk ke dalam rumah
dipanggil ruang ibu ataupun sekarang dipanggil sebagai ruang tamu. Kemudian, ada bilik yang berfungsi sebagai bilik tidur.
Bilik tidur pada masa dahulu kebiasaanya adalah ruang yang kosong dan hanya menggunakan kain sebagai pembahagi bilik
di rumah ini. Untuk rumah orang yang lebih kaya, setiap orang mempunyai bilik masing-masing. Terdapat sebuah dapur di
belakang rumah untuk memasak dan sebagainya. Akhir sekali, tempat mandi dan membasuh kain berada di luar rumah.
Untuk surau pula, hanya ada ruang sembahyang untuk lelaki dan ruang sembahyang untuk wanita di ruang yang lebih kecil
dan juga ruang kecil untuk imam yang menghadap arah kiblat.
Encik Zulkifli: Basically, at the front of the house there is a space called the verandah . The first room

7.4APPENDICES
when you enter the house is called the mother space or now called the living room. Then, there is a room that
serves as a bedroom. Rooms in the past was usually empty room and only use cloth as a divider for rooms in the
house. For houses of rich people, everyone has their own room. There is a kitchen at the back area of the house to
cook and so on. Finally, the bathing area and the clothes washing area are located outside the house. For the surau
however, there are only praying areas for men and for women at the bigger and smaller space respectively and a
small space for the imam which is facing the Qiblah.
Iddin: Apakah nama surau tersebut dan dari mana asalnya surau ini?
Iddin: What is the name of the surau and where does it originally come from?
Encik Zulkifli: Surau ini kita namakan sebagai Surau Haji Abdul Rahman Merbok. Haji Abdul Rahman Merbok seorang guru
agama yang terkenal. Beliau juga pernah menjadi guru agama kepada sultan dan kerabat diraja Kedah. Surau ini diambil dari
Merbok. Merbok pula dirujuk kepada nama tempat di kawasan Sungai Petani. Surau ini dahulu digunakan sebagai tempat
sembahyang dan juga di mana Tuan Haji Abdul Rahman Merbok mengajar tentang agama dan pembacaan kitab.
Encik Zulkifli: We call this the Surau Haji Abdul Rahman Merbok. Haji Abdul Rahman Merbok

7.4APPENDICES
was a famous teacher that taught about religion. He was also once a teacher of religion to the Sultan and the royal
family of Kedah. This surau was taken from Merbok. Merbok is referred to as a name of a place names in Sungai
Petani. This surau was used as a place of worship and also where Tuan Haji Abdul Rahman Merbok taught about
religion and scripture readings.
Iddin: Dari segi perubahan masa, bagaimana berlakunya perubahan daripada tradisional kepada moden?
Iddin: In terms of time transition, how did the change from traditional to modern happen?
Encik Zulkifli: Perubahan ini kadang-kadang berlaku secara semulajadi. Faktor yang pertama, perubahan ini mungkin
berlaku kerana faktor bahan itu sendiri. Pada zaman dahulu, terdapat kuantiti kayu yang banyak. Untuk mendapatkan kayu
kita harus menebang pokok dan apabila kita menebang pokok, masa yang diambil untuk menggantikan pokok-pokok
tersebut boleh mencecah berpuluh-puluh tahun. Jadi, bekalan bahan yang boleh didapati berkurangan disebabkan faktor
ini. Disebabkan pembangunan yang mengakibatkan penebangan hutan, bekalan bahan semulajadi secara tidak langsung
berkurangan. Yang kedua, ia disebabkan faktor sejarah. Ini bermaksud faktor kemasukan British ke Tanah Melayu. Orang
Inggeris ini memperkenalkan teknologi baru. Sebelum ini, orang kita hanya tahu membina rumah dengan menggunakan
kayu. Dengan kemasukkan British, mereka memperkenalkan pembinaan berasaskan simen dan menggunakan bahan yang
lebih mudah didapati dan mudah dicari.

7.4APPENDICES
Encik Zulkifli: These changes sometimes occur naturally. The first factor, this transition may occur due to the
material itself. In the old days, there are a lot of timber that can be found. To obtain wood we have to cut down
trees and when we cut down the trees, the time taken to replace those trees could reach decades. Thus, the supply
of available timber decreased due to this factor. Due to modern development that causes deforestation, the supply
of natural materials is indirectly affected. Secondly, it is due to historical factors. This means the entry of British in
Malaya. The British introduced new technology. Previously, we only know how to build a house using wood. With
the entry of the British, they introduced cement-based construction and use of materials that are more readily
available and easier to find.
Kwang Zhou: Saya bandingkan kedua-dua rumah dan saya mendapati yang surau mempunyai tingkap pada bahagian atas
rumah. Apakah sebab istimewa tingkap ini berada di surau?
Kwang Zhou: I compare both houses and I found that the surau has louvered windows at the top part of its
building. Is there a special reason for this?
Encik Zulkifli: Tingkap ini tidak ada keistimewaannya. Ia hanya berfungsi sebagai pengudaraan dan juga pencahayaan.

7.4APPENDICES
Encik Zulkifli: The windows there are nothing special. It only serves as a way ventilation and to receive lighting.
Kwang Zhou: Di dalam rumah Sungai Ular terdapat kepala rusa yang digantung pada dinding rumah tersebut. Apakah
maksud dan fungsi kepala rusa ini?
Kwang Zhou: Inside the Sungai Ular house there is a deer head hanging on the walls of the house. What
the purpose and function of the deer's head?
Encik Zulkifli: Dulu-dulu pada tahun 60-an dan kebawah, kalau kita pergi ke rumah orang-orang Melayu, kebiasaannya kita
akan jumpa kepala rusa dan tanduknya. Ia bertindak sebagai perhiasan. Kepala rusa ini didapati daripada tengkorak
haiwan itu sendiri ataupun boleh dibuat daripada kayu. Satu fungsi adalah sebagai perhiasan dan yang keduanya, kepala
rusa ini digunakan sebagai tempat menyangkut baju dan juga songkok.
Encik Zulkifli: In the 60s and below, if we go to Malay houses, usually we will see deer heads and its antlers. It
acts as decorations. It can be obtained from the deer's head skull of the animal itself or can be made of wood.
One function is as an ornament and its second function is that these deer heads are used to hang clothes and
songkok.

7.4APPENDICES
Daniel: Ada lagi tak orang yang menetap di rumah-rumah tradisional Kedah?
Daniel: Are there any people who still live in Kedah traditional houses?
Encik Zulkifli: Ada tapi tidak ramai. Di seluruh Alor Setar, kurang dari 10% yang masih menetap di rumah-rumah tradisional
ini. Ini kerana rumah-rumah sebegini menjadi mahal dan menjadi benda yang mewah akibat bahan kayu yang sukar
didapati pada masa sekarang.
Encik Zulkifli: There are but not many. Around Alor Setar, less than 10% are still living in traditional houses. This is
because such houses are expensive and become objects of luxury as a result of a hard wood being hard to be
obtained at the present time.
Cham: Di bawah surau terdapat satu gong, apakah itu dan apa fungsinya?
Cham: Under the mosque there is a gong, what is it and what is its function?
Encik Zulkifli: Itu bukan gong. Itu dikenali sebagai beduk. Beduk ini kita ambil dari Masjid Zahir. Apabila waktu sembahyang
sudah tiba, beduk ini akan diketuk untuk memberitahu tibanya waktu sembahyang. Batang beduk ini diperbuat
daripada sebatang pokok. Bulatan pada batang ini ditebuk dan kulit beduk ini asalnya dari kulit

7.4APPENDICES
kerbau.
Encik Zulkifli: It is not a gong. It was known as a beduk. We took this beduk of Masjid Zahir. When the time for
prayer has arrived, the beduk will be hit to inform the arrival time of prayer. The body of the beduk is made from a
tree. The circle on the body was punched and the beduk skin is originated from buffalo skin.
Iddin: Berapa lamakah beduk ini sudah diwujudkan?
Iddin: How long has this beduk lasted?
Encik Zulkifli: Beduk ini sudah ada selama berpuluh-puluh tahun. Kalau kita tengok, kulit beduk ini dicantumkan dengan
menggunakan pasak kayu dan tidak menggunakan paku besi.
Encik Zulkifli: This beduk has been around for decades. If we look closely, the drum skin is grafted using wooden
pegs and does not use iron nails.
Cham: Di bawah rumah itu juga terdapat alat-alat tradisional. Apakah kegunaan alat-alat ini?

7.4APPENDICES
Cham: Under the house there are also traditional tools. What is the use of these tools?
Encik Zukifli: Yang ada kayu pemutar itu kita panggil pengapit tebu dan alat yang diikat pada tiang itu dikenali sebagai
pengapit santan. Kita meletakkan alat-alat ini pada rumah tersebut untuk menunjukkan cara hidup orang Melayu pada
zaman dahulu.
Encik Zulkifli: The tool with the wooden handle is called a cane clamp and the tool that is tied to the column is
known as a milk clamp. We put these tools in the house to show the way of life of the Malays in old days.
Cham: Di belakang rumah terdapat satu lagi ruang, apakah ruang itu dan tujuannya?
Cham: Behind the house there is another space, what is that space and what is its purpose?
Encik Zulkifli: Itu dipanggil pelantang. Pelanatang itu ada dua tujuan. Pertama, ia digunakan untuk membasuh pinggan
mangkuk yang digunakan dan juga untuk menjemur.
Encik Zulkifli: It is called a platform. This platform has two purposes. First, it is used for washing dishes and also
for drying.

7.4APPENDICES
Kwang Zhou: Biasanya rumah tradisional ini, boleh tahan berapa lama dan macam mana mereka mengelak daripada anai-
anai?
Kwang Zhou: How long can these traditional houses usually last and how do they avoid termites?
Encik Zulkifli: Kebiasaannya, rumah begini boleh tahun ratusan tahun. Pada masa dahulu, cara mereka mengelak anai-
anai ialah setiap tiang ada pelapitnya yang berbentuk petak dan dibuat daripada simen. Disebabkan anai-anai ini datang
dari tanah, penggunaan simen ini mengelak anai-anai tersebut dari memakan tiang kayu rumah. Yang kedua, jika kita
pegang kayu-kayu di rumah ini, tangan kita akan rasa berminyak. Ini adalah cara orang pada masa dahulu untuk mengelak
anai-anai, dengan menyapu minyak pada kayu-kayu tersebut.
Encik Zulkifli: Normally, this house can last for hundreds of years. In the past, the way they avoid termites is there
placing a layer below the the wooden columns of the house that is shaped like a box and made of cement.
Because the termites come from soil, the cement prevents termites from reaching and eating the wood columns.
Secondly, if we touch the wood in this house, our hands will feel oily. This is how people in the past avoid
termites, by sweeping the oil onto the timber.
Kwang Zhou: Apa jenis minyak yang mereka guna?

7.4APPENDICES
Kwang Zhou: What kind of oil did they use?
Encik Zulkifli: Biasanya mereka menggunakan minyak disel. Dulu mereka sapu minyak pada kayu ini. Tetapi pada masa
sekarang mereka menggunakan cat dan sebagainya untuk menggantikan minyak disel ini.
Encik Zulkifli: Usually they use diesel oil. In the past used to apply oil on wood. But in recent times
they use paint and so on to replace the diesel oil.
Daniel: Dari segi warna, adakah warna rumah ini semulajadi?
Daniel: In terms of colour, is the colour of this house natural?
Encik Zulkifli: Ya warna rumah-rumah ini semulajadi. Kebiasaannya kalau rumah dulu-dulu mereka tidak mengecat rumah
mereka dan hanya menyapu minyak disel tersebut. Sangat jarang rumah zaman dahulu menggunakan cat.
Encik Zulkifli: Yes the colour of these houses are natural. Normally the people of the past do not paint their
houses and only applied the diesel oil mentioned before. Very rarely is a traditional house painted.

7.4APPENDICES
Cham: Atap itu menggunakan daun apa?
Cham: What kind of leaves are used for the atap?
Encik Zulkifli: Terdapat dua jenis. Satu ialah atap nipah dan yang kedua atap rumbia. Nipah selalunya terdapat di tepi
sungai. Rumbia kebiasaannya ada di dalam hutan tetapi sekarang ini rumbia sukar dijumpa.
Encik Zulkifli: There are two types. One is nipah roof and the second is a thatched roof. Nipah is often found at
the riverside. Rumbia was usually found in the woods, but now this is difficult to find.
Iddin: Macam mana mereka sambungkan atap nipah dan rumbia ini?
Iddin: How to they join the nipah and rumbia together?
Encik Zulkifli: Mereka menggunakan cara penjahitan. Pada fasa pemasangan, mereka akan susun nipah dan rumbia ini
bersebelahan satu demi satu dan satu lagi lapis akan diletakkan atas lapis bawahan dan untuk mengelakkan dari nipah
dan rumbia ini berterbangan, mereka menjahit lapisan-lapisan ini. Mereka menggunakan rotan sebagai bahan jahitan
untuk mengikat atap ini.

7.4APPENDICES
Encik Zulkifli: They use the sewing method. In the installation phase, they will place the nipah and rumbia next to
each other one by one and another layer of the atap will be placed on the lower layer and to avoid the nipah and
the rumbia roof from flying, they sew these layers. They use a rotan as sewing material to tie the roof together.
Cham: Perabot dalam rumah ini, adakah ia perabot asli pada zaman dahulu?
Cham: The furniture in the house, was it the original furniture from those days?
Encik Zulkifli: Perabot itu kita tambah sendiri, dihias untuk memberi rupa seperti rumah tradisional pada zaman dulu. Pada
masa dulu, rumah-rumah tradisional tidak mempunyai banyak perabot. Kebiasaanya di rumah tradisional Melayu, mereka
duduk secara bersila atas tikar mengkuang dan mempunyai almari. Itu sahaja. Perabot yang kamu nampak sekarang
ditambah kemudian.
Encik Zulkifli: The furniture was added ourselves, decorated to look like a traditional house in the old days.
During those times, traditional houses do not have much furniture. Usually in traditional Malay house, they sit
cross-legged on mats and have a closet. That was all. Furniture that you see now were added later.

7.4APPENDICES
Cham: Sekarang adakah kedua-dua rumah ini terbuka kepada orang awam?
Cham: Are both houses are open to the public now?
Encik Zulkifli: Untuk rumah tradisional Kedah, ia hanya dibuka untuk melakukan kajian. Rumah ini tidak terbuka kepada
orang awam kerana kerja pemuliharaan masih belum habis. Ini untuk mengelakkan kerosakan kepada barang-barang
dalam rumah ini. Bagi surau pula, ia masih dibuka kepada umat Islam yang mahu mengerjakan solat.
Encik Zulkifli: For the traditional home of Kedah, it is only open to carry out research. The house is not open to
civilians as conservation work is still not finished. This is to prevent damage to goods in this house. As for the
surau, it is open to Muslims who want to pray.
Iddin: Adakah pintu ‘sliding’ ini tambahan ataupun ia datang bersama rumah ini?
Iddin: Were the sliding door an additon or did it originally come with this house?
Encik Zulkifli: Pintu ‘sliding’ ini adalah tambahan. Kebiasaannya pada masa dulu, pintu ini dibuka dengan menolaknya.
Pintu ‘sliding’ ini ditambah kemudian. Kalau kita perhatikan rumah-rumah Melayu pada masa

7.4APPENDICES
dahulu, konsep pintu ‘sliding’ tidak wujud lagi dan pintu bersama tingkap dibuka dengan menolak.
Encik Zulkifli: This sliding door was an addition. Normally in the past, the door is opened by pushing it. Sliding
doors was added later. If we look at Malay houses in the past, the concept of sliding doors did not exist and
doors along with windows opened by simply pushing it.
Iddin: Apabila kedua-dua bangunan ini dipindahkan ke sini, adakah ia berada dalam keadaan yang teruk?
Iddin: When both these buildings moved here, was it in a bad condition?
Encik Zulkifli: Rumah-rumah ini pada asalnya berada dalam keadaan yang uzur. Lalu, kita melakukan banyak perkara
untuk memuliharakan kedua-dua rumah ini. Sebagai contoh, kita sapukan minyak diesel kepada setiap kayu dalam
rumah-rumah ini dan kita menambahkan paku besi pada beberapa tempat untuk mengukuhkan struktur bangunan.
Encik Zulkifli: These houses were originally in a bad condition. Then, we do a lot of things to conserve both
these houses. For example, diesel oil was added onto each wood in these houses and we added some iron nails
to strengthen the overall structure of the building.

7.4APPENDICES
Iddin: Baik. Itu sahaja soalan-soalan yang kami ada. Terima kasih kerana meluangkan masa bersama kami untuk
membantu kami dalam pengajian tentang rumah-rumah tradisional Kedah.
Iddin: Alright. That's all the questions that we have. Thank you for taking the time to help us in learning more
about traditional houses in Kedah.
Encik Zulkifli: Sama-sama.
Encik Zulkifli: You’re welcome.

7.4APPENDICES
APPENDIX2(VIDEO&MODEL)
https://youtu.be/x2haQTs8r4Q

7.4APPENDICES
APPENDIX2(VIDEO&MODEL)
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