EVALUATING KELARAI ASLI IN HERITAGE CONSERVATION AS A CULTURAL ASSET OR CONSTRAINT

Authors

  • Wan Faida Wan Mohd Azmi Department of Built Environment Studies and Technology, College of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA, PERAK BRANCH, MALAYSIA
  • Syed Abdul Haris Syed Mustapa Department of Built Environment Studies and Technology, College of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA, PERAK BRANCH, MALAYSIA
  • Lilawati Ab Wahab Department of Built Environment Studies and Technology, College of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA, PERAK BRANCH, MALAYSIA
  • Mohd Nurfaisal Baharuddin Department of Built Environment Studies and Technology, College of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA, PERAK BRANCH, MALAYSIA
  • Muhammad Suhaimi Musa Department of Built Environment Studies and Technology, College of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA, PERAK BRANCH, MALAYSIA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21837/pm.v23i38.1863

Keywords:

Kelarai Asli, Heritage Conservation, Mosque, Bamboo Panel

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between heritage conservation and restoration constraints. The heritage building in question is the Ihsaniah Iskandariah Mosque in Perak that is earmarked for repair. The exterior walls of the mosque are adorned with Kelarai Asli woven bamboo weaves panels that have deteriorated over time. Four laboratory experiments are conducted to determine their existing conditions. The tensile test results reveal moderate strength (2.1–2.4 kN), indicating structural viability. Adhesion tests (ASTM D4541) discover 100% failure in adhesion of the coating, while water absorption tests (ASTM D570) expose high rates of saturation (55%–65%), raising concerns over moisture resistance. SEM analysis however, confirms a dense fiber structure, giving it sustained mechanical durability. This study concludes that Kelarai Asli is indeed a cultural asset worthy of preservation based on the fortified nature of the bamboo weaves and overall structural integrity and durability. The problematic paint work and coating, adhesion and moisture retention issues could be addressed using modern treatment solutions and technical expertise. Such a prominent heritage site should be preserved that show the creativity and craftsmanship of an era before the advent of modern technology. This study provides some useful guidelines, discussion and rationale for future investigations concerning preservation of vernacular elements in Malaysian heritage sites and their restoration practices.

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Published

2025-11-26

How to Cite

Wan Mohd Azmi, W. F., Syed Mustapa, S. A. H., Ab Wahab, L., Baharuddin, M. N., & Musa, M. S. (2025). EVALUATING KELARAI ASLI IN HERITAGE CONSERVATION AS A CULTURAL ASSET OR CONSTRAINT. PLANNING MALAYSIA, 23(38). https://doi.org/10.21837/pm.v23i38.1863

Issue

Vol. 23 (2025): PLANNING MALAYSIA JOURNAL : Volume 23, Issue 5, 2025

Section

Article

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