buletin warisan

May July 2006

Committed to Malaysias built heritage

pp 6154 / 2 / 2007

Save Bok House As A National Heritage

The second petition to YBhg Datuk Dr Zuraina cites Clause 24 of the Act which states The Commissioner may designate any site which has natural heritage or cultural heritage significance to be a heritage site. Badan Warisan Malaysia has urged the Commissioner of Heritage to declare Bok House as a heritage site and requests her to undertake the necessary investigation and inspection of the site, and to make an Interim Protection Order, as provided for under Clauses 26 and 33 respectively. Badan Warisan Malaysia believe that the declaration of Bok House as a National Heritage is an acid test on the effectiveness of the new National Heritage Act 2005. Members are strongly encouraged to visit our office to read in full and sign both letters. The letters are also posted on our website. The deadline for collection of signatures is 15 June 2006, after which both the letters will be delivered to the Ministry. If you want more details of these petitions, please contact Elizabeth Cardosa. There is a link from our website if you are interested in reading the full content of the National Heritage Act 2005.

Photograph from Badan Warisan Malaysia collection.

Badan Warisan Malaysia is calling all members to sign two petitions to save Bok House and to have it designated as a National Heritage under the National Heritage Act 2005. The petitions are addressed to YB Dato Seri Utama Dr. Rais bin Yatim, Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage and YBhg Datuk Dr. Zuraina Majid, Commissioner of Heritage. In April 2006, Tan Sri Dato Seri (Dr.) Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid, President, wrote to YB Dato Seri Utama Dr Rais, expressing our grave concerns regarding the future of Bok House. This letter was copied to YAB Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. Tan Sri Ahmad Sarji sent a second letter to Ybhg Datuk Dr Zuraina Majid, appealing for Bok House to be protected for its cultural significance. Bok House (Architects: Swan & MacLaren, completed 1929), 121 Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, has been one of the subjects of Badan Warisan Malaysias research and documentation for over 20 years. Better known as Le Coq DOr, Bok House has long been viewed as a building apart, feted in multitudinous publications, celebrated in photographs and embedded in the social memories of tens of thousands of Malaysians as well as non-Malaysians. Despite the loss of a part of the building following the clandestine demolition in February 1999, this is one of the last of Kuala Lumpurs grand mansions and has retained high levels of authenticity. Its loss will be a tragedy and will obliterate this great architectural and social icon. Even in its present worn and forlorn state, Bok House still turns heads and incites curiosity not only by those who appreciate our heritage as well as casual passers-by. The petition to YB Dato Seri Utama Dr Rais, nominates Bok House as a National Heritage and formally requests the Minister to place the building on the National Heritage Register in order to protect it from further deterioration and potential demolition. Clause 68 of the National Heritage Act 2005 (gazetted on 31 December 2005) states that Any person may nominate to the Minister in the prescribed form any natural heritage, tangible or intangible cultural heritage to be declared as a National Heritage.
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In this issue we look at recent press comments on Bok House. Later bulletins will feature a selection of the many personal memories that this majestic house evokes. Members are invited to submit their own recollections of 121, Jalan Ampang. Bok House In The Headlines Star 2/3/1999 Days numbered 70-year-old building in danger of being demolished. Star 3/3/1999 City Hall: KL landmark will not be torn down. NST 9/5/2000 Majestic testament of a man in love. Monumental Bok House slips into disrepair. NST 17/4/2001 Demise of an old friend? Palatial Bok House or Le Coq DOr dying slow death, as witnessed by its dilapidated state and dismantling of some of its fittings". Sunday Star 22/4/2001 Last of the colonial beauties. Question mark over the fate of Bok House. NST 10/4/2005 Fading symbol of wealth and love. A facet of Malaysian heritage is in danger of disappearing now that Bok House, a neo classical architectural beauty, is closed to the public.

Suffolk House Restoration Update

By Laurence Loh Photographs by Intan Syaheeda binti Abu Bakar

Details of restoration work being carried out.

Phase 2 works for Suffolk House, which entails all building conservation works required to complete the structure as per the 1818 form, is almost up to 80%. It is anticipated that by August 2006, a visitor will be able to view the building in all its Georgian splendour from the architectural point of view. Fit-out works to equip the historic structure as an art gallery and visitors centre should begin in June 2006. The target date for its official opening hopefully by the Prime Minister, is early 2007, a day all who have worked over the last 40 years to save Suffolk House will anticipate with great joy and a sense of fulfilment. The open colonnade of the 1818 form, as depicted in

paintings by James George and Captain Robert Smith, is celebrated in the building works that can now be viewed if one were to visit the site. Lost for so long as an image when latter-day accretions enclosed the whole building, it is now a sight to be relished. As a consultant for the project, I had always known it will be a memorable project. But seeing the transformation for myself in reality is quite unforgettable. From day one the discoveries were exciting, e.g. archaeological works for the front porte cochere revealed four different sets of strip foundations. And the learning curve keeps climbing, especially when independent research by scholars reveal even more details about the site, the changes it has gone through and the stories that were related about the house to travellers and readers about Penang and the Far East during the early 19th Century. The answers will manifest themselves in the final version of the building. The Penang State Government, the HSBC Bank and the Penang Heritage Trust will be working together to raise another RM1.5 million to pay for the costs of the fit-out of the building. Earlier, the State Government had already contributed RM1.5 million and the HSBC Bank RM2.0 million, all of which will be spent by June 2006. Details of the sponsorship campaign will be announced shortly. And it promises to be a very novel programme.

Arched timber supports to the roof

Suffolk House will be one of the must-see sites when Badan Warisan visits Penang in May 2006. Memberss Trip to Penang 26 to 28 May 2006 Our programme includes a heritage trail walk in George Town looking at non-European immigration. There will be visits to see local trades, places of worship, private homes. We then go to Balik Pulau and Teluk Bahang before ending with site visits to places like Suffolk House, Runnymede, Uplands School and Loke Hall. Look out for reports in the next bulletin.
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Restoration to the timber fanlight. Note the single span bridge arch.

Heritage in Danger The Grand Houses of Penang

By Diana Cooper

Mr Robinson, Mr. Erskine, Captain Douglas, Mr. Pearson and Mr. Lawrence on which houses are erected. The Raffles had arrived in Penang in 1805 and first lived in a wooden bungalow before commissioning, as Olivia Raffles described, a pretty brick house on the beach. The completed house was named Runnymede after the English field on which King John signed the Magna Carta. It was a single storey building with louvered wooden window shutters, carved balconies, and a roof noted for its deep overhanging eaves. In 1811 when Raffles moved to Malacca the house was sold. A fire in 1901 raised the house to the ground. After the rebuilding was completed it was converted into a hotel. In the 1930s, a three-storey seafront wing was added. The 30s was Hotel Runnymedes heyday when it boasted a large ballroom, its own post office and train-ticketing bureau. In 1940 the British Navy took over the hotel. For a token one dollar, the Malaysian government in 1957 purchased the Runnymede and converted it into a rest house. The Malaysian Military occupied the premises from 1986 until last year.

Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, the coastal road running from the heart of George Town has seen many changes in its history, including being renamed. It was formerly known as Northam Road and prior to that, was called North Beach. Colloquially, it continues to known to locals as Ang Mo Lor, Hokkien for European Road nicknamed Millionaires Row. Millionaires Row was Penangs first residential suburb where the elite had their homes. The trendsetters who established this as Penangs most desirable address were the early administrators. Notably, Stamford Raffles commissioned Runnymede house and Anson lived at Peninsula Cottage. By the end of the 19th century a number of entrepreneurial Europeans had built along this scenic stretch. Their large Anglo-Indian bungalows, with airy verandahs and sea views, were a manifestation of both their success and social standing. Later when the Europeans relocated southwards to the Macalister Road and Western Road areas, it was mainly the wealthy Chinese who began to occupy this coastal strip. The new residents had made their money from tin and plantations, many had cosmopolitan backgrounds and the houses they built reflected this. The outcome was a unique form of urban architecture, adding yet another dimension to the rich variety of Penangs built heritage. The homes of these millionaires were a celebration of global fusion. Trends and materials were sourced worldwide. Marble was shipped from Italy, cast iron work came from England, the crystal chandeliers were Czech, stained glass windows were designed in France, and furniture was of Burmese teak inlaid with Chinese mother-of pearl. Set in magnificent gardens, with sweeping driveways, the houses often had state-of-the-art amenities from swimming pools to private theatres. So did these opulent residences help Penang gain its reputation as the Pearl of the Orient? Today, a number of remaining grand mansions that were a feature of this tree-lined avenue are under serious threat of either demolition or redevelopment. The future prospects of three candidates as reported from press releases are reviewed here. Changes to Runnymede, the Homestead and the former Shih Chung School could see irrevocable transformation of Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah.

Photo courtesy of Tan Sri Ahmad Sarji

The Future In an article from the Star newspaper dated 6 May 2002, the MD of Warisan Pinang Sdn Bhd stated that we have come up with a unique design, where the first four levels of the new building will be surrounded by glass, to give it the appearance of a building on stilts. Those passing by Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah can look through the glass and still glimpse the heritage building. On 17 April 2006 the Star reported that the Runnymede will become part of the Runnymede Centre, which will comprise a boutique hotel and super condos. The MD for the developers, Prima Prai Group (major shareholders the Armed Forces Fund Board and Pasdec Corporation S/B) said, We will build around the Runnymede and give it a resort feeling. I can assure you its going to be a unique project. While other people may just tear down an old building, we want to preserve the Runnymede as much as we can.

Runnymede The History The 4th January 1809 edition of The Prince of Wales Gazette, gave the following account: The north beach will, ere long, assume a very handsome appearance, when the several elegant villas, now building are finished. The new buildings commence with Runnymede, the property of Mr. Raffles and adjoining are the grounds of Mr. Hobson,
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Shih Chung School The History The mansion was when built in the 1880s by Cheah Tek Soon, a prominent local figure. It instantly made a major impression and became a landmark because it was the tallest residence in Penang. The Twentieth Century Impressions of British Malaya of 1908 wrote the following: the pagoda-like residency of a wealthy Chinaman, which is four storeys in height, from the topmost balcony of which a splendid birds-eye view of the harbour and mainland is obtained. The balconies and tiered roofs (pagoda style) in an Anglo-Chinese style may have inspired the house being called the Chinese Residency. But over time it has changed names and use. By the 1910s, the Tye brothers converted the house into a hotel which has been called Bellevue and Raffles-by-the-Sea. Later the hotel became the Shih Chung school. Adaptations to new uses have seen the former splendid house lose many of its cast iron fittings and a storey being decapitated.

Homestead is noted for its elegant broad colonnaded frontage and for its two separate wings. Formerly, these were furnished and decorated in two distinctive styles, one Chinese and one European. A private theatre was incorporated into the rear of the residence. Yeap Chor Ee, founder of the Ban Hin Lee Bank purchased the residence in the 1940s and created a trust to ensure maintenance of the building. Khoo Su Nin writing in her book Streets of George Town Penang, in 1993 described Homestead as one of the best-maintained historic mansions in Penang today.

Photo courtesy of the Penang Heritage Trust archives

Photo courtesy of the Penang Heritage Trust archives

The Future The original building proposal was for a high-rise hotel and condominium complex behind the school building. This was later replaced with another proposal for a nine-storey columbarium and Buddhist institution. Work orders for this project were withheld following public outcry and protests to the proposal. The building is rapidly deteriorating; a 2003 aerial photograph indicated the serious dilapidation of the roof. Since then part of the frontage has collapsed.

The Future The trustees of the Yeap Chor Ee Charitable and Endowment Trusts have donated Homestead for use as the Wawasan Open University College (WOUC) headquarters. This complies with the terms of the will of the trusts founder, which stipulates that the building be used for educational purposes. This will involve building a 12-storey extension at the back of the mansion which unfortunately has resulted in the demolition of the private theatre to accommodate the new development. Work on the project is expected to be completed by mid-2007. The institution is to open in September 2006 offering 11 courses. Selected Sources: Khoo Su Nin, Streets of George Town Penang Yap, Dilys, Sir Stamford Raffles and the History of Runnymede Newspaper reports in the Malay Mail, Sunday Mail, Ne Straits Times and the Star.

Homestead The History Built in 1919 for Lim Mah Chye, a shipping magnate, the house was designed by James Stark of Scottish civil engineering firm Stark and McNeil. Holkam Hall in Norfolk, considered to be one of Englands finest Georgian country houses, was the design inspiration.

Final Thoughts The present Earl of Leicester talking about his home Holkam Hall after which The Homestead was fashioned reflected: The value of Holkam and other such houses lies, I suggest in their ability to provide unique historical, social and economic evidence about the time in which they were built.

Celebrations at the Church of St. Anthony

By Diana Cooper

Consequently, a window marks what was the original doorway into the church. This part of the church, built in 1911, became the left transept of St Anthonys when it was extensively expanded in 1930. The visitor can find other clues revealing changes of use. For example, the niche behind the altar that once held a statue of the churchs patron saint has been retained. Likewise the moulded outline of a bricked in window behind the statue of St. Anthony is still visible, identifying its former use.

On 17th December last year, the congregation of St. Anthonys gathered to celebrate. The occasion was the rededication of the church after a seven-month closure. During this period extensive renovations were undertaken. The need for remedial work became apparent when piling for a project nearby caused cracks to appear in the walls and flooring. This exposed other problems with the wooden frame of the roof and the roof tiling, both of which had to be completely replaced. Located at the end of Jalan Robinson, off Jalan Pudu, St. Anthonys with its Gothic architecture is a welcome relief to its surroundings. The church is an attractive singlestorey building, comprising of a square white tower topped with a spire; the moulding details of both are enhanced in a contrasting colour. During the course of the renovation every effort was made to be sensitive to the heritage aspects of the building. Constraints of budget, plus a lack of plans and details of some of the original design features created a number of challenges. Therefore, it was decided to retain certain architectural elements that showed changes made to the church during its history, and not attempt a complete restoration.
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A major area where a compromise had to be negotiated was with the flooring. What should be retained and what was practical to remove? These questions were resolved by not removing the marble dais in the sanctuary added in the 1950s and the remaining traces of blue patterned floor tiles used in the 1930s extension. Instead these contrast with the simple concrete finish of the remainder of the flooring, as a time line of the churchs alterations. A visible marker of the history of St. Anthonys of which the congregation are duly proud to donate funds for this renovation.

Kembalikan Kenyaringan Itu - Gereja The Roman Catholic Parish of the Holy Name of Jesus
Oleh Intan Syaheeda Abu Bakar

Pengalaman melawat sebuah gereja ketika menyertai sebuah bengkel anjuran United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) iaitu 3rd Sub-Regional Southest Asian teacher training workshop on using art to teach about World Heritage yang bertemakan Seeing With Young Eyes pada 15-20 Januari 2006 merupakan satu pengalaman baru bagi diri saya. Bengkel yang diadakan di Pulau Pinang ini disertai oleh para peserta yang berasal dari negara-negara Asia Tenggara seperti Filipina, Indonesia, Kemboja, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand dan Malaysia serta pemerhati dari Mongolia dan pejabat UNESCO di Bangkok sememangnya telah memberikan satu persektif baru dalam pemahaman saya tentang agama lain. Sebagai seorang Muslim, saya sememangnya tidak pernah memasuki tempat ibadat kaum lain dan pengalaman ini secara tidak langsung telah membuka minda saya tentang keunikan senibina gereja serta peranannya dalam menyatukan kaum tanpa ada sebarang elemen sensitif agama membataskan pergerakan saya. Lawatan ke Gereja The Roman Catholic Parish of the Holy Name of Jesus ini merupakan sebahagian daripada program yang diatur ketika melawat Balik Pulau yang digelar Pekan Sejalan(hanya terdapat satu jalan sahaja untuk pekan ini), di mana ia terletak di barat daya Pulau Pinang. Para peserta telah ditugaskan untuk menyiapkan latihan pemetaan kebudayaan (cultural mapping) di sekitar Balik Pulau. Antara lokasi kajian yang telah diberikan ialah kampung Titi Teras, pasar Balik Pulau, pekan Balik Pulau itu sendiri dan gereja tersebut. Kumpulan saya telah ditugaskan untuk membuat kajian ke atas gereja tersebut yang merupakan satu-satunya gereja yang terdapat di Balik Pulau ini. Gereja ini telah dibuka pada tahun 1854 dengan beratapkan nipah. Bermula dari 1871 hingga 1881, Paderi J.Lo, Kremer dan Galmel telah mula menukarkan struktur yang beratapkan nipah dengan struktur yang lebih kukuh. Mereka merupakan pelopor dua buah sekolah di Balik Pulau iaitu Sekolah Saint George dan Sekolah Tinggi Sacred Heart. Kemudian pentadbiran diambilalih oleh Paderi Page pada tahun 1881. Beliau juga digelarkan Pow Shin-fu kerana begitu fasih berdialek Cina. Kefasihan beliau berdialek Cina telah berjaya menarik lebih ramai kaum Cina yang kebanyakkannya

berbangsa Hakka untuk menganut Kristian dan ini menyebabkan populasi Katolik bertambah di Balik Pulau sehingga menyebabkan beliau perlu membesarkan gereja tersebut. Beliau yang bertindak sebagai arkitek, kontraktor, pemecah batu granit dan tukang kayu telah menambah tempat suci untuk beribadat (sanctuary), tempat pemujaan (altar) dan juga dua sayap bangunan yang diperbuat daripada batu granit yang diperolehi daripada bukit berhampiran. Apa yang lebih menakjubkan mengenai batu granit ini adalah ianya dipotong sendiri oleh Paderi Page dan anggotaanggota parish yang sungguh komited menyumbangkan masa dan tenaga mereka. Selain itu, Paderi Page telah menempah 9 tingkap kaca yang direkabentuk sendiri oleh beliau daripada Bruges, Belgium. Tingkap-tingkap ini sungguh cantik dan tidak ternilai harga kualitinya. Sehingga kini, tingkap kaca ini masih megah dipancar sinar cahaya matahari yang saban hari menyinari Balik Pulau di sebalik bukitk-bukau yang tersergam indah. Menara Locengnya telah mula dibina pada tahun 1909 dan siap pada 1917 di mana ia turut dilengkapkan dengan loceng yang ditempah khas dari Perancis. Sungguh mengagumkan bukan! Sebuah loceng yang hanya untuk kegunaan sebuah gereja kecil di sebuah tempat yang agak terpencil diterbangkan jauh dari Perancis. Pasti pembuatan loceng yang halus oleh pembuat loceng yang terkenal iaitu La Savoyarde di Annecy, Perancis telah berkembang pesat dengan ciri istimewanya yang tersendiri sehingga terkenal ke Tanah Melayu pada masa itu. Saya berpeluang memanjat tangga menara loceng tersebut yang begitu curam dan berpeluang melihat sendiri loceng tersebut. Tidak dapat saya bayangkan bagaimana setiap kali paderi ingin membunyikan loceng, mereka terpaksa mendaki tangga yang curam tersebut. Terasa sakit lutut ini setelah berada di bawah! Paderi Auriol yang digelar Kin Shin-fu kerana fasih berdialek Cina telah meletakkan jam untuk loceng yang mempunyai ukiran tulisan Cina yang bermaksud Church of the Holy Name of Jesus, Balik Pulau. Jam tersebut telah berfungsi selama lebih kurang 70 tahun, berdetik tanpa henti seolaholah berkongsi segala suka dan duka Balik Pulau tanpa terlepas sedikit pun segala peristiwa yang berlaku di situ. Malangnya loceng tersebut sudah tidak digunakan lagi dan yang lebih menyedihkan lagi, pihak gereja telah membuat keputusan untuk menggantikan kenyaringan bunyi loceng tersebut yang suatu masa dahulu mampu memeriahkan seluruh Balik Pulau, dengan bunyi loceng elektronik. Loceng tersebut masih elok lagi dan adalah menjadi satu misi yang amat bermakna sekiranya kita mampu memulihara loceng tersebut dengan mengembalikan penggunaan loceng tersebut. Kerja yang mencabar bukan! Gereja ini bukan hanya sebuah gereja biasa. Ia adalah mercutanda pekan Balik Pulau. Saya amat berharap suatu masa nanti ketika menyelusuri jalan-jalan curam yang dikelilingi pohon-pohon durian dan buah pala menuju Balik Pulau, kedengaran dari jauh kenyaringan loceng asal dari Menara Loceng Gereja The Roman Catholic Parish of the Holy Name of Jesus seperti 70 tahun yang lalu. Semoga cita-cita ini bukan hanya angan-angan kosong sahaja.
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myBALIKpulau
Heritage Education Workshop October 2005 to January 2006

One example of the banners promoting the children's exhibition

In preparation for the third UNESCO sub-regional Southeast Asian teacher training workshop on using art to teach about World Heritage Seeing With Young Eyes (SWYE), held in January 2006 in Penang, Badan Warisan Malaysia, Arts-Ed and the Penang Heritage Trust, initiated an arts in heritage education project programme myBALIKpulau. Over a period of several weeks in mid 2005, several visits to towns and villages in Penang were carried out by Elizabeth Cardosa (Badan Warisan), Janet Pillai (Arts-Ed) and Liew Kungyu, the main artist facilitator for the programme. Balik Pulau town and the neighbouring village, Titi Teras, were identified as ideal for carrying out a programme for young people to introduce cultural mapping and interpretation activities of their local communities. This programme was also an opportunity to raise awareness of the townspeople and local businesses of the great wealth and diversity of their cultural and built heritage as well as predispose the local community to receive and act as informants to a group of strangers 20 educators and heritage experts from countries in the region with another 8 from other towns and cities in Malaysia. From October to December, a series of workshops were held with children from five schools in Balik Pulau. Mind mapping, data collection and interview methodologies were

introduced to children aged between 10 and 12. The participants were also taught how to use a digital camera and though learning picture management using Photoshop, learnt principles of composition and design. They began by researching their personal and family histories and their links to community history before they moved on to researching local trades, communities and buildings. One of the outcomes of the workshop was to produce exhibits as a tangible demonstration of what the participants have learnt throughout the course of the workshop as well as giving the children a concrete direction upon which to focus.

Photo documentation

At work in the community IT centre.

Photo by Tan Kok Peng, 12 years

Example of the children's artwork

The program has 4 segments: 1. myPOSTCARD 2. mySELF, 3. myFAMILY 4. Bicycle Trail. Through each segment, the children were taken through brain storming exercises, mind mapping activities and actual photo documentation and interviews for the project. Among the technical skills imparted were photography using a digital camera and picture management using the Photoshop programme. The children were introduced to exercises to learn about framing, angle, distance, level, focus, composition and light source. The exercises also allowed the children to learn more about themselves, their family and their town. All the activities culminated in an exhibition of the childrens work from every stage of the workshop. The exhibition was held in the two venues the Balik Pulau Branch of the Penang State Library and the old office of the District and Land Office, Southwest District, Balik Pulau. The programme would not have been possible without sponsorship from Tanjong plc, UPEN and the support of Internet Desa, Balik Pulau, Perpustakaan Negeri Cawangan Balik Pulau and Pejabat Daerah dan Tanah (Bangunan Lama), Daerah Barat Daya, Balik Pulau.

Photo by Tan Jian Hooi, 11 year

Lamp post buntings advertising the exhibition.

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My Merdeka Days Assignment

By Mustapha bin Mahmud All photos courtesy of Ben Lee

the programmes of his ward, in which the date and time of and mode of dress of his ward was spelt out, and the venue for the function and the routes to take were shown. The vehicles transporting the Head / Leader of the delegation was given a pink sticker (to be placed on the left side on the inside of the screen) while the motorcars for the member / members of the delegation were provided with green stickers. The different colours signified the different routes the motorcars had to take - a measure to ensure that there was minimum congestion, and particularly for the function at the Merdeka Stadium the guest would be deposited and received at the appropriate entrances. The stickers were also necessary for the appropriate place for parking. Naturally on that day I could only study the programme without the chance to travel the routes. Today, on looking back at how the Government arranged the Merdeka Ceremony and the ensuing celebrations I was amazed at the Governments concern to be modest and frugal and its conscientiousness to get full value for its money. Perhaps the leadership then was too aware that the countrys wealth was based only on rubber and tin and hardly anything else. Today, following the discovery of our oil, even for such occasion as the Commonwealth Games, the Government could afford to import Mercedes and BMWs for use during the occasion! The American made limousines, assigned to the Protocol Officers actually belonged to private people - the rubber barons and tin magnates. The following day (two days before Merdeka Day) another car became available and was assigned to me. It was a Plymouth. What was more important it was creamy white in colour. Unfortunately it has a blue-ish tinted glass screen, which would make it difficult for those who manned the junctions to see whether the car carried a pink sticker or a green one. Thus, at about 8.30 in the morning of the Merdeka Day I arrived at Carcosa to escort Viscount and Viscountess Kilmuir to the Merdeka Stadium. The Viscount came down almost immediately to the foyer of the house. As soon as I greeted him and introduced myself he immediately said that he wanted my advice. According to the booklet that we both had, the dress code said Formal: Full Dress Uniform. I admitted that I was not sure how to advise him on this, I could only say that the Rulers of every State would be wearing full ceremonial dress with the special headdress and they would be having the keris stuck to their embroidered wide belt. Oh well, Lord Kilmuir said, In that case I shall have to wear my wig and gown. With that he rushed upstairs again. Shortly afterwards he came down with Viscountess Kilmuir of his side. This time, after I greeted her Lord Kilmuir quickly introduced me to her. As we hurried to the

For two weeks immediately preceding the Merdeka Day a group of twenty-six Malayan Civil Service Officers among whom I was one, had been attending a crash course designed to make us competent protocol officers to take care of the foreign dignitaries who would soon be arriving to attend the Merdeka Ceremonies and the ensuing celebrations. To ensure that we would be presentable the Government gave us clothes allowance that was generous enough as to cover the cost of a good lounge suit. Earlier on, during our course, each of us was told which dignitary we had to take care of. In my case I was assigned to take care of Viscount Kilmuir, the leader of the official British Delegation. This delegation was the one that negotiated with the Malaysian side under Tengku Abdul Rahman, on the terms for Malaysias Independence. As the agreement had been agreed to many months before the date set for the Merdeka Day his presence at the celebrations was to witness the happy completion of an historic event in which he had taken very active part. Being the Lord High Chancellor he presided in the House of Lords and as such protocol wise he ranked in precedence next to The British Monarch. However, on this occasion The Queen sent her own uncle, the Duke of Gloucester as her Personal Representative. The Duke was taken care of, I believe, by the officers of the Chief Secretary, who were expatriate officers. I was notified that Viscount Kilmuir would be coming for the occasion with his wife Viscountess Kilmuir. It was only three days before the Merdeka Day, that all Protocol Officers were taken outside the building to see and take over charge of the chauffeur driven limousine to transport their wards. When it came to my turn I found I was assigned like the others a plush (by our standard then) new American Ford Motorcar. The only worry I had about the limousine was its colour a tomato red. The Chief of Protocol too sensing my concern immediately checked with the Office of the Chief Secretary; and as I had surmised our Chief of Protocol was politely requested to find another suitable vehicle with a less striking colour. With the assignment of each chauffeur driven motorcar, the protocol officer was only then given a booklet containing
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car and I opened the left rear door for Viscount Kilmuir, he said No, Mr. Mustapha. You, please enter first and sit in the middle. My wife will sit on your right and Ill enter after you. That way it will be easier for us to talk to each other. Fortunately the motorcar was quite wide and Lady Kilmuir was a slim person. Just as I feared as we neared the junction between Jalan Maharajalela and the road up the hill to the stadium the people who manned the junction urged our car to go along Maharajalela. Our chauffeur followed their instruction instinctively. Whereupon I told the chauffeur to slow down and stop near a police officer twenty yards ahead. I suddenly realized I knew him we were for almost a year in the same class at King George V School Seremban and had been playing hockey together. He was surprised to see me sitting in the back of a car meant for VVIP. I told him that it was a car with a pink sticker for being shunted to the route for a green stickered car. He immediately stopped the cars coming up from the rear and guided us to turn around and take the road up the hill direct to the stadium. We arrived in good time although I noticed most of the visitors were in lounge suits. This upset me quite a bit to know that the Viscount mut suffer quite a bit from the heat. However soon down below, the Rulers escorted by their Chief Ministers walked towards the centre of the ground, to a newly erected dais decked with seats facing a flagpole. After taking their seats the Rulers started to sign a document presented to them.

This declaration was immediately followed by the raising of the Malayan Flag and the playing by the band of the National Anthem.

As the Rulers were leaving the dais I made my way towards the entrance where the official car should be nearby waiting to pick up Lord and Lady Kilmuir back to Carcosa. Lord and Lady Kilmuir arrived back at Carcosa around lunchtime. But there was another programme for them to attend in the evening a cocktail party given by our Prime Minister, at 7.00 p.m. The instruction in the booklet said the guests were expected to be punctual. However this time Lord Kilmuir said he would abide by The Customary British practice of arriving half an hour later. In the mean time I returned to my eminently comfortable room at the Officers Men at No. 1 Spooner Road perched on a hill ringed by ancient tall tembusu and angsana trees with a view to the Parliament House and the Carcosa. Back at my room I received a telephone call from the colleague who led the rest of the British delegation congratulating ourselves for not making any mistakes so far. It seemed the Protocol Officer in charge of Delegation from an Arab State took the delegation to the TPCA Stadium (in Kampung Baru) instead. It was sometime before he realized his error! During the drive to the cocktail party, Lady Kilmuir said she believed I lived at least five years in England, and consequently she wondered whether I came to like the cultural life such as going to concerts and the theatres. I told her that I regularly attended concert performances at the Royal Festival Hall. As for the theatres I also attended them when I was down in London. To my remark about the theatre, she perked up and said, Whom do you consider as the better actors and actresses among those you have seen? I have seen Marlon Brando on the stage but he did not impress me then as he had a limited role, Who then? she persisted. I told her that the last play I saw before returning to Malaya was Bell, Book and Candle. The leading actor was Rex Harrisson, he was superb! I am glad you like him. He is my brother, As I left the Carcosa driveway I could not help thinking What a happy end to the Merdeka Day.
10

I was too engrossed with my duties of being a Protocol Officer to find out what exactly that document was. On looking back it could have been a formal agreement with the British Government in which it would be stated in passing that the Federation of Malaya an independent country, agreed to have a defence agreement with Britain in the event of threats from external sources against our security. It could be a document in which the Rulers accept the relinquishment of British suzerainty or Protection and control of our internal and external affairs and so on. It could have been that the Rulers were setting their agreement to the New Constitution for the Independent Federation of Malaya. Whatever it was, as soon as the signing was completed Tengku Abdul Rahman started to proclaim in a loud voice the charmed word Merdeka! I think he said it eleven times, to represent the nine Malay States and the two Straits Settlement or Crown Colonies; one Penang and Province Wellesley, the other, Malacca.

Merdeka Legacy Visit 2 Parliament House, Kuala Lumpur

By Nicholas Stone

new nation. Designed by W. Ivor Shipley of the Public Works Department, it is in the modern International Style idiom. It features a tower block, clad in pre-cast concrete elements, and a dramatic folded-plate roof structure, covering the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives), rising from the large three-storey podium formed by the rest of the building. On entering the complex, however, one was stuck by the manner in which the character of the interiors in the main building has been transformed by recent renovations, undertaken in 2004. Extensive use of carved wooden panels, etched glass with motifs inspired by diverse traditional forms from different parts of Malaysia and huge arabesque borders was much in evidence. Many of those who were familiar with the building before the renovations commented on the quite radical change in character from the original style of architecture. Much of the discussion during the visit focused firstly on the question of retaining a sensitivity for the original style of a building when undertaking renovations and secondly whether the mass-produced wood carvings, some silver-painted, others with exaggerated Bunga Raya motifs, really do justice to Malaysias rich craft heritage.

Group photo in front of the statue of Bapa Malaysia with our guide, Mazidah Mohamed (front row, first from right)

Following on from the members' visit to Stadium Merdeka and Stadium Negara last year, Badan Warisan organized a visit to Parliament House for a group of about 20 members on Wednesday, 1st March 2006. The tour, conducted by some of Parliaments in-house staff - including the Sergeant-at-Arms, the official custodian of the royal mace - provided a rare opportunity to learn about the workings of Parliament and to view the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives) and the Dewan Negara (the Senate), the two houses of parliament. The tour included a visit to the library and the 17-storey tower structure (no longer accommodating ministers' and members' offices, but now administration). From the open-sided terrace at the top level, one was able to enjoy a magnificent view over Kuala Lumpur, which made one conscious just how much of the city centre is still covered by lush greenery. At the end of the tour the Badan Warisan party crossed the parade ground, which was just being made ready for a state visit, and assembled for a group photograph at the foot of the statue of Malaysias first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman. This visit provided an opportunity to view the architecture of one of Malaysias landmark buildings, which, when it was opened in 1963, was regarded as one of the symbols of the
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Detail of faade on tower block

It goes without saying that such a building, which can have an important iconic function - like for example the Houses of Parliament in London - should want to grasp a style which is truly representative of the nation. But it is interesting to note how perceptions of what this entails can change with time. The designers of Parliament House looked to the modern International Style for a way to define the new nations identity. But by definition the International Style could not be unique to Malaysia. The folded-plate roof form was also not unique, but in fact almost identical to Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)s design for the United States Air Force Academy Chapel at Colorado Springs, first conceived in the mid-1950s and completed also in 1963. The main difference here is that the structure for Parliament House was built in pre-cast concrete rather than tubular steel, clad with aluminium sheeting, in the case of its American relative. (For further details of SOMs design, see a very comprehensive website at: http://architronic.saed.kent.edu/v4n2/v4n2.03p01.html).

The number of spires of the Parliament House roof structure was intended to represent the number of states of the nation. But because only eleven states existed in Malaysia at the time it was designed, the roof structure has eleven spires. So when in 1963 Sabah, Sarawak (and for a short while Singapore) joined the Federation, this symbolism was no longer valid. However, in the interior of the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives) on the wall behind the Speaker, there is a large decorative device consisting of thirteen spires, which echo the form of the roof structure and effectively reinstate the originally intended symbolism. Although it has been suggested that the folded-plate roof structure of Parliament House is supposed to resemble the Bugis or Melaka roof form, similarities are in reality very distant. By contrast Muzium Negara (the National Museum), built nearby during the same period, makes much more direct references to traditional forms. If one looks back on the architecture of this heroic period, when architects tackled the challenging task of searching for a truly Malaysian identity in architecture, one can now ask oneself which approach was more appropriate. Considering this question in relation to space and time, one cannot help but remark that the modern style architecture of the 1950s and 60s now tends to seem very closely identified with that particular period and for that reason may seem dated with the passing of time - but, being International in style, it is less closely identified with the locality. By contrast, an architecture which grasps elements of the local tradition will be clearly identified with that particular region, but less directly connected to the dimension of time, since tradition bridges time and connects the present with the cultural heritage. It would seem that a representative national architecture should ideally express the identity of the place the genius loci in a timeless way. Badan Warisans Parliament House visit proved to be a surprisingly thought-provoking occasion.

Hisham this is erroneous, as he pointed out at the time of the buildings inception only 11 states existed in Malaysia. In point of fact, however, the mosque roof is 16-sided. So, it may indeed be possible that an analogous 11+5 was he original intention - although symbolically it does seem a little incongruous that one should implicitly be attempting to combine the Malay states and the pillars of Islam as entities of equal value. We would therefore be pleased to hear if any reader holds the true key to this enigma !!!

Members Matters
Annual Membership Subscription Members should have received their annual billing letters by now we would like to thank members who have already sent in their subscriptions. This is an appeal to members who have yet to respond to our membership renewal letters. Please send in your reply form with your annual subscription of RM60 as soon as possible.

Recruiting new members If you know of anyone who is interested in joining Badan Warisan Malaysia, please note that membership application forms can be obtained from our Heritage Centres.

Alternatively, the forms can be downloaded from our web site: www.badanwarisan.org.my/about/membership_forms.php or you can contact our Membership Officer via e-mail: info @ badanwarisan.org.my

Junior Membership Did you know that Badan Warisan Malaysia has a junior membership category?

Any individual below the age of 19 is eligible to become a Junior Member. The annual subscription for Junior Members is only RM10 and is not required to pay the entrance fee upon joining.

As a slight aside, it may be worth drawing attention to a related point in the recent discussion on Masjid Negara in the January February 2006 edition of Buletin Warisan. Here, in Masjid Negara the National Mosque: A discussion with the late Ar Dato (Dr) Hisham Albakri by Diana Cooper, it is written: The 18 spokes of the main roof (of the mosque) has since been interpreted as symbolising the 13 Malay states plus the 5 pillars of Islam. According to

However, junior members are not entitled to vote at any members meetings and may need parental consent to participate in trips or other events organised for members.

If you have any enquiries regarding your membership status, please do speak with our Membership Officer, Faridah Mohamad. She is in the Secretariat office from 9.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m., Tuesdays to Thursdays. Other times, please speak with Ee Lin.
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Life at No. 8 Heeren Street, Malacca

By Colin Goh

After some 5 months of working at No. 8, Heeren Street, Malacca, I would like to share with you what life has been like for me on a typical working day at this beautifully restored Dutch-styled Heritage House in the old area of Malacca that was once known as Kampung Belanda in the Dutch era and the Bazaar of the Sultanate and Portuguese periods. On arriving at No. 8 in the morning, I go through the ritual of opening the House for public viewing. The stable door is unlocked and the inner security bar (locally called a baroti) is removed and the lights are switched on. The heavy shutter windows at the front and the door leading to the open air well/courtyard are opened and immediately I can feel a gush of gentle and cool breeze coming into the House. I unlock the door to the office and stash my bag away before heading for the kitchen area to roll up the bamboo blinds and to feed the fish in the well and water the plants. After this, I climb the stairs to the upper floor of the House to open the windows at the front and back, roll up the bamboo blinds skirting the air well and check if all is in good order before opening the House to the public. The number of visitors to No. 8 varies from day to day. There are rare days when there are no visitors. Foreign visitors preponderate the local ones, all coming from a spectrum of occupations and interests, but sharing the joy of seeing a restored Dutch Shophouse in Malakka. The Dutch visitors are very happy and proud to see the House still extant from the VOC days. The Americans are satisfied that their tax dollars helped finance such a worthwhile project. The English admire the style of the House and like the history attached to it. The Australians say this House works in its simple design. The Germans compare the House with their own preserved buildings and are pleased that conservation has begun in Malaysia. The French and Italians love the spirit of the House. The Singaporeans love the ambience of the House and would readily grab at a chance of living in one. Malaysian visitors mainly comprise of students from tertiary institutions. There have been some Malaysian visitors ranging from itinerant workers to executives, who after having discovered No. 8, were profoundly touched by this
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Visit by students from the Dutch Language Class, Univerisiti Malaya. Photos courtesy of Michael Weber.

living heritage of a particular point in time of Malaysian history. They say that No. 8 should not be a hidden jewel and more Malaysians should come to know of No. 8 as it represents the living history of Malaysia. Generally speaking, the House is very much admired by all who walk in to view it. However, there are distinct features within the House that visitors find most interesting and attractive. The timber works and the termite-devoured beam are examined closely by many including carpenters and those from the building industry. The air well and the courtyard are much admired for their simple functions and would do well these days in saving energy costs. The stable and foldable doors are desired by yuppies who want to include them in their homes. Some are taken up by the antiquated well. The roof tiles often intrigue visitors as to how they function. The tall brick wall at the back of the House is always applauded, especially by the Dutch, for its singular purpose of deflecting the sea breeze into the House and the Dutch lament that no such solution could be found to deflect the cold winter winds from their homes in Holland. Indeed, our foreign and local visitors come away fascinated by No. 8. Permit me to share my own personal thoughts on No. 8. I feel like I have known No. 8 all my life. I was born on the same street as No. 8, at No. 54 &56, Heeren St., which then housed the Ong Maternity Home. In my early childhood days, I lived at No. 280, Tranquerah Road, just a little over 1km from No. 8. This home was an old Dutch styled house very similar in general design to No. 8. Every

day brings memories of that old house when I am in No. 8 the front hall, the stairway, the kitchen, the well and the sleeping room upstairs. The memories were not evident in the first few weeks of working at No. 8. It gradually dawned on me that No. 8 resembled in so many ways my old home at Tranquerah Road. I really feel a sense of nostalgia working at No. 8. Is No. 8 just a shell of a house that is 200 years old? No, I do not think so. I believe that No. 8 is a house that lives because of the conservation efforts in restoring it to its old glory days. The spirits of its past have come to reside in it again. In quiet times at No. 8, I hear the building groan, the floor boards creak under heavy footfalls when nobody is upstairs and the gentle breeze whispers in my ears of the rich past of this beautiful house. At the end of the day, I close up the house by going through all the steps in reverse order of what I do in the morning on opening it. I secure the padlock on the stable door and take a final wistful look at No. 8 then head for home. What a wonderful life it is at No. 8 Heeren Street! Comments extracted from our Visitors Book Please conserve the traditional shophouses without them tourists wont come back !! They are the charm of Melaka a true jewel! Helen & Michael, Sweden & South Africa 21 / 05 / 2005 We were impressed and encouraged by the work of Badan Warisan Malaysia in undertaking this model project to show how authenticity is a vital part of the conservation effort. Geogg Ashley, Heritage architect and Linda Frienberg, Cabinmaker and technician, Sydney, Australia 17 / 07 / 2005 The restoration work at 8 Heeren Street, Malacca is an eye-opener to our Malaysians rich and profound heritage. I am deeply touched by the effort and my experience is a humbly enriching one. My thanks to all those involved in this project and I hope the wonderful people engaged in the tradesmanship of heritage restoration will preserve and continue with the good work so that the future generations of Malaysians will live to enjoy their countrys rich history. Lim Chee Seng, Negeri Sembilan 24 / 09 / 2005 Every building has pasts and possible futures. I hope number eight can help in the future of many buildings in Melaka and beyond. Marshan Johnen, Wisconsin, USA 25 / 11/ 2005 I enjoyed it very much this well restored house heritage is important to the future, if you dont know your roots can you develop wings! Elisabeth Dole, Germany 14 / 02 / 2006 History comes alive! Many thanks to Colin and all whove made the house possible. I hope Melaka can continue to value its past as well as its tourist trade and commerce. Jo McMillan, London, UK 02 / 03 / 2006

Exhibitions
Old Malaya 4 May 10 June 2006 We are holding another Gift Shop exhibition and sale of period furniture and collectibles. This is a good opportunity to come and source for that special piece to add to your home or even as a gift.

Bowled Over 29 June to 12 August 2006 We are delighted to work with about 10 potters led by Cindy Koh from Clay Expressions. Come and view, better yet buy some exciting bowl forms: there are the functional, some just for fun and some just got to be bought! Members are cordially invited to the exhibition launch which will take place at 10.30 a.m. on Saturday 8 July 2006 In conjunction with the exhibition, the potters will be holding the following workshops and demonstrations. Limited places please register early! Saturday 8 July 2006 Demonstration: Wheel Throwing and Raku firing Mould Making workshop 1 p.m. and 2.30 p.m. Cost: RM 30 per person (All materials will be provided) Size: 10 persons per session Saturday 22 July 2006 Demonstration: Wheel Throwing and Handbuilding Workshop 11.00 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. 1) Creating Clay works from Moulds 2) Clay Mask Making Workshop Cost: RM 20 per person (1 kg of clay will be provided) Size: 20 people per worshop per session Saturday 12 August 2006 Demonstration: Wheel Throwing and Raku firing Time: 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Glaze your own pieces for Raku Firing and smoke firing for RM10 per piece. Please contact the Secretariat to register.

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Highlighting a Building

Bungalows like No 2 reveal an amalgam of styles and influences incorporating features of a traditional Malay house with those of Edwardian suburban England. Built circa 1925, the PWD adapted the bungalow design to suit the tropical climate. The centre part of the house is a one and a half storey space with wooden louvered windows inserted close to the ceiling allowing increased air circulation as well as providing diffused light. Air circulation was further enhanced by the house being raised on concrete piers and the use of ventilating timber flooring. Planned on an L shaped block, the living room formed the centre of the bungalow. Originally the house also contained three bedrooms, an entrance hall, a formal dining room, a small study and a kitchen. Each bedroom had a connecting toilet and bathroom. The bedrooms have now become the Secretariat office, a meeting room and the Gift Shop, while the formal dining room with the bay window is now the Reading Room for the Resource Centre. The main body of the house is connected by a covered walkway to a block at the rear, which is built at ground level, it is not raised. This would have provided accommodation for the domestic staff and a second kitchen. This block currently provides the storage for the Resource Centre as well as houses the restrooms. The driveway continued to the side of the building to a garage. The buildings colour scheme was originally green with the timber painted a bluish green; this was later changed to black and white. Fencing around the property was not erected until sometime after 1977. Until then PWD 989, Jalan Stonor, as No 2 was known, sat on its 2.2 acre site surrounded by a cottage style garden without any boundary markings. The gardens are slowly and surely being reinvigorated with the development of the Heritage Garden. Since its inauguration in 2004 when 50 trees were planted, further indigenous plants have been added. Badan Warisan can proudly claim to be almost self-sufficient in bananas and papaya. An herb garden is now being planned to be located close to the Rumah Penghulu. Highlighting No 2 has also highlighted a number of associated issues. Maps of the late twenties show many similar residences like No 2, Jalan Stonor set in their own grounds. A walk around the immediate area now shows that their numbers have drastically depleted and they are gaining increasing rarity. Buildings like No 2 are an important legacy of Kuala Lumpurs past. It is not only grand civic buildings that tell a citys past but also more modest domestic architecture. So the few remaining examples should be guarded zealously. In Singapore, such similar dwellings after years of opprobrium are finally being recognised as having architectural merit. Conducted tours of some of these residences are now

The Home of Badan Warisan Malaysia No 2, Jalan Stonor, Kuala Lumpur, by Diana Cooper For over three quarters of its existence No 2, Jalan Stonor has been a family home. One former resident highlighted this on a rare visit to Kuala Lumpur, in 1998. Mr. Andrew Fraser had recognised his old home while driving by, and came into Badan Warisan Malaysia. He recounted living at No 2, as a young boy with his brother, during the early 1950s, when the British Civil Service employed their father. Shortly after, a package arrived at Badan Warisan from the Fraser family. The contents encapsulated their life when No 2 was their home. It contained photographs and reminiscences of memorable events that had occurred during their two-year stay. Listed were details of a break in, pest problems mainly with rats, one brother locking out the whole family and sandbags being placed underneath the porch in the time of the Emergency.

Photo courtesy of Andrew Fraser

1983 was a year of transition for No 2. At the beginning of the year it was a residence, but at the years end it was no longer a home but an office and has been since. The first commercial occupants were HICOM Properties who made it their branch office for twelve years. Badan Warisan took over the building in 1996 and were responsible for restoring the building as much as possible to its original state. The house was designed by the Public Works Department (PWD). According to their records from 1928, there were ten classes of quarters totaling 1,150 units built around Kuala Lumpur for civil service employees.
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Heritage Centre Updates

by Puan Sri Datin Susan Jalaluddin

Resource Centre We welcome our new Information Officer, Ms Nurzaifullah binti Mansor, and look forward to greatly improving our Resource Centre (RC) and general information services with her specialized training and skills. The physical re-arrangement of the RC into Book Room and Reading Room is now complete. We would like to acknowledge Toh Puan Aishah Ong and Syarikat Ong Yoke Lin for the donation of 3 air-conditioning units towards our RC upgrade. There is still much work to be done to streamline the cataloguing and the data base but these are always ongoing tasks. However, we now need tables and chairs for the Reading Room and appeal to members to donate towards the purchase of this furniture. This will allow us to co-ordinate the furniture and create a pleasant atmosphere for researchers. Adopt-A-Chair 16 chairs @ RM49 each total RM784 Adopt-A-Table 8 tables @ RM143 each total RM1144 Members are free to contribute any amount towards this, just specify if it is for the chair or table fund. Donors names will be put up in the Resource Centre.

organised on a regular basis. Interest has been sufficient to prompt a recent publication: Black and White: the Singapore House 1898-1941 by Julian Davison. Secondly, when reviewing maps of the area of 1929 with now, you become acutely aware of the change in the density of the area. Although, for the most part, stilll residential, buildings have altered from single or double storey free-standing residences to high-rises. There is now a 41 storey condominium development planned for the property on the adjoining lot which will increase the residential density from 10 to 500 persons per acre. For a lay person, this is an astounding fact! Note on Street Names Jalan Stonor was named after Oswald Gerard Stonor who was the Resident of Selangor from 1921 to 1926. He was credited with turning around Selangors finances due to his strict and industrious and at times, combative manner. W.L. Conlay was appointed the first British Agent to Terengganu Sultan Zainal Abidin 111. Origins of the Bungalow. The word bungalow is derived from bangla or bangala, a Hindi expression meaning of or belonging to Bengal and also referring to the distinctive rural dwellings of this area. In the 18th Century the Europeans in Indian modified these simple single-storey thatched roof houses raised on a mud plinth, for their own use. By the 19th Century bungalows were being built in England and early 20th Century in America and Australia. Now the term is known in all English speaking countries. A bungalow is usually defined as a detached single story dwelling. In Malaysia the term is frequently referred to a residence of the colonial period, which might have more than one storey. Source: Yule, Henry and A.C.Burnell. A glossary of Colloquial Anglo-Indian Words and Phrases. King, Anthony. The Bungalow: An Indian Contribution to the West

Garden Since the AGM more members have come forward with sponsorship for trees, as listed.
Michael and Amanda Moggie RM50 Fagraea auriculata (Loganianceae) and Shorea sp. (Dipterocarpaceae)

Josephine Moggie RM30 Eusideroxylon zwageri (Lauraceae) - belian Datin Brigitte Lim RM25 Karina Lim RM25 Philip Tan Kia Kheng RM25 Anthony Hughes RM25 Chen Voon Fee RM25 Browea coccinea (Caesalpiniaceae) Gardenia carinata (Rubiaceae) - cempaka utan Syzigium aromaticum (Myrtaceae) clove, bunga cengkeh Syzigium aromaticum (Myrtaceae) clove, bunga cengkeh Murraya paniculata (Rutaceae) - kemuning

These sponsors are very much appreciated and their names will be placed on the trees with the next round of labeling. Datuk Ismail Adam has kindly donated young trees of Cananga odorata (Annonaceae), the lovely Kenanga and Lawsonia inermis (Lythraceae), henna (inai), and another variety of Hibiscus. Mr. Gordon Kirley has most generously donated a large sum to establish an herb garden. We now need volunteers to develop this project to build informative and pleasant surroundings at our Heritage Centre. There are still a number of trees awaiting sponsorship, so please come forward with RM25.
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Rumah Penghulu An Update

After a six-week closure the Rumah Penghulu was reopened on 15 May. During the closure the house received some much-needed cosseting and preening. Major maintenance issues were undertaken including repairs to parts of the roof and timber work. The house was oiled to protect the wooden structure from excessive water absorption, termites and weathering.

Windows after oiling

Oiling work being carried out

Bilik Pengantin - with new curtains

The hiatus also allowed three volunteers working with project leader Intan Syaheeda and other secretariat staff, the opportunity to give the interior a face-lift. Hasnah Mohd Salleh, Chan Sok Yee and Valerie Albakri worked on renewing the displays inside the Rumah Ibu, replacing curtains, soft furnishings, mats and bed linen. Many thanks to all who contributed to make this project possible: to the volunteers for devoting their time and to the Malaysian Culture Group for their donation. Plans are progressing to produce a new brochure for the Rumah Penghulu and to add to the interpretation of the story of the house. This will also include a small architectural display on the traditional Malay house which is in the process of being designed as well as displays on the traditional economies of Malaysia in particular rubber and tin. Members are invited to come and visit and reacquaint themselves with the Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman.
New washing area
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Floor being repaired

Other News
Compiled by Diana Cooper

to 1980. In addition every year there will be two temporary exhibitions that concentrate on specific aspects of Ipohs history or showcase individual collections. The objective is to bring the history of the city that tin built to life by interacting with the people of Ipoh and ensure that they tell the story of their town. This interaction is essential to the philosophy of Ipoh World who are insistent that they are not creating a museum. Presently, Ipoh World is searching for a suitable building for the centre. Being considered are the Old Post Office, shop houses and a bungalow close to the town centre. This would give Ipoh World a venue for workshops involving the local community and allow for research items to be collected. A digital database available for students and researchers to access details of Ipohs history is also proposed. Once Ipoh World has permanent premises they will begin preparations to hold their second exhibition. Under consideration is an exhibition of how tin mining affected Ipoh during its 135-year history. Members will be kept informed. Further information about Ipoh World can be found at www.ipohworld.com

Feet to Flight First Steps for a new heritage concern with a difference. Ipoh World Sdn Bhd took their initial steps earlier this year with a Pilot Exhibition from 16th January to 12 February. According to their slogan Ipoh World is a body dedicated to, Saving yesterday for tomorrow. Was their first walk-about a success? Judge by the numbers. More than 12,000 people walked through the doors of Muzium Darul Ridzuan to see the exhibition during its month long display. A total of 914 people attended on the final day! What attracted such a wide audience including a diverse range of tourists from 16 countries? It was an exhibition entitled The Story of Ipoh - From Feet to Flight. 220 photographs illustrated the time line of transportation in Ipoh from the late 19th Century to recent times. A further 180 items, an eclectic range of: hubcap displays, old rickshaw lamps, travel documents, a sampan, a scooter and a rickshaw, further enhanced the telling of this story. Significantly, many of these exhibits are loaned from private individuals. Such a response must squash any doubts that there is not serious interest in the past. Ipoh Worlds Vision is: By preserving the legacy of the men and women, who built Ipoh, we: honour the past, enrich the present and, endow the future. The success of the Pilot Exhibition indicates that there is a demand and a viable market for cultural tourism. Ipoh World is proposing a Heritage Centre to create a central point for promoting the heritage of Ipoh. It has been observed by one of the principal driving forces behind the concept, Commander Ian Anderson, that Perak state has both a long history and a wealth of heritage sites, but little is being done to manage them. At the core of the heritage centre will be a permanent exhibition telling the story of Ipoh and its people from 1880

Sarawak Heritage Society Two years ago when there was a Badan Warisans members visit to Kuching an important announcement was made. Members had spent a weekend enjoying a variety of heritage sites in Kuching, so it was good news to hear that a Protem committee had been organised with the objective of establishing a Sarawak Heritage Society. Persatuan Warisan Sarawak or Sarawak Heritage Society was officially registered on 14th February 2006. SHS will be run as a membership-based organisation, on a voluntary, non-profit basis. The Society will promote conservation of built heritage through publications, workshops and meetings and will also encourage restoration projects. Now that SHS has been registered the Vice Chairman Mike Boon Chee Khian said the Society had completed a brochure about the Society and this will be used as part of a membership drive. There are also plans for a website. Also proposed for early November 2006 is a convention. This will be organised in association with Jabatan Muzium Sarawak, Sarawak chapter of PAM (Malaysian Institute of Architects), LSDA (Local Council Development Authority) and other partners. The topic of the two-day convention will be, Conservation of Urban Heritage. Further details will be available closer to the date. For further information please contact Mike Boon via e-mail: sarawakheritagesociety @ gmail.com

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Badan Warisan Malaysia

Council Members Tan Sri Dato Seri (Dr) Ahmad Sarji bin Abdul Hamid, President Ar Laurence Loh, Deputy President Christopher Boyd, Honorary Treasurer Dato H.S Barlow, Honorary Secretary Datuk Abdul Rahim Abdullah Ar Helena Aman Hashim Ishak Ariffin Datuk Haji Ismail Adam Dr Chandran Jeshurun Dato Ir Lee Yee Cheong Ar Jimmy C S Lim Ar Lillian Tay Honorary Council Members Puan Sri Datin Amar Elizabeth Moggie Datin Valerie Albakri Datin Waveney Jenkins Tuan Haji Norzam Darmin Puan Sri Datin Susan Jalaluddin Elizabeth Wee Datuk Ir. (Dr) Mohd Annas bin Mohd Nor Secretariat Elizabeth Cardosa, Executive Director Lim Ee Lin, Heritage Centre Manager Lee Chai Ching, Accounts Officer Intan Syaheeda Abu Bakar, Project Officer Nurzaifullah Mansor, Information Officer Faridah Muhamad, Membership Officer (part-time) Fong Meng Lee, UUM Intern 8 May to 17 July 2006 Lee Yeang Pheng, UUM Intern 8 May to 17 July 2006 Buletin Warisan Diana Cooper, Editor editor @ badanwarisan.org.my Badan Warisan Malaysia
Company No. 104798-A

Talks
Introduction to Malaysian Names and Titles by Colette Hassan 11.00 a.m. Saturday 10 June 2006 Let our member Colette Hassan help you navigate through the complex world of Malaysian names and titles. From her years of experience in Malaysia, Colette has come up with a set of general guidelines on how to tell a datuk from a Datuk from a Dato and more! Her talk will also include an introduction to the structure of Malaysias Federal and State government and the Judiciary. Prior to retirement, Colette worked at the Swiss Embassy in Kuala Lumpur for 25 years where one of her duties was dealing with protocol matters.

Malay and Malayness: Identity and Definitions by Shamsul A.B. Saturday 17 June 2006 at 11.00 a.m. The Malay World (Alam Melayu), the home of the Malays since the last Ice Age (circa 15,00010,000 BCE), exhibits fascinating ethnic, linguistic and cultural variations as a result of having inherited Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic traditions as well as three European colonial systems of administration. The beginning of European rule in 1511 marked the watershed of the Malay World, dividing it into two distinct periods, which shaped the nature and functioning of the Malay-speaking indigenous communities and polities, as well as their thought system. Shamsul A.B. (2006), 'Malays and Malayness: Identity and definitions' in Hood Salleh (ed.), Encyclopedia of Malaysia Vol 14 (to be published) Prof. Dato Dr Shamsul A.B. is the Director of ATMA (Institute of the Malay World and Civilisation) and IKON (Institute of Occidental Studies) at the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. A donation at the door would be much appreciated. Limited places available priority to members of Badan Warisan Malaysia. Please call the secretariat to book your place. Tel: 03 2144 9273 or e-mail info @ badanwarisan.org.my

2 Jalan Stonor, 50450 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 03 2144 9273 Fax: 03 2145 7884 Email: heritage @ badanwarisan.org.my www.badanwarisan.org.my Opening hours Office: Mondays to Saturdays 9 am to 6 pm Exhibition Centre: Mondays to Saturdays 10 am to 5.30 pm Resource Centre: Tuesday s to Saturdays 10 am to 4 pm Rumah Penghulu tours: Twice daily Mondays to Saturdays at 11 am and 3 pm (other times by prior appointment) No 8 Heeren Street Heritage Centre Colin Goh, Manager 8 Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, 75200 Melaka Tel/Fax : 06 281 1507 E-mail: 8heeren@ badanwarisan.org.my Open Tuesdays to Saturdays 11 am to 4 pm
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Please send all feeback to editor @badanwarisan.org.my