KUALA LUMPUR: Conserving historical buildings in Malaysia is not only about preserving the physical evidence of national identity and culture but also about showcasing the development and progress of local communities.

Universiti Malaya Faculty of Built Environment senior lecturer Dr Zuraini Md Ali said such initiatives are vital and must be pursued with greater effort to preserve the architectural and aesthetic value of historical buildings here.

“When we look at a historic building, we are simultaneously uncovering its history.

“Through the building’s design, we can trace how it has evolved from one era to another,” she said during her appearance on Bernama TV’s Apa Khabar Malaysia yesterday.

Zuraini added that the National Heritage Act of 2005 evaluates historical buildings not only based on their age but also based on their historical significance, design and aesthetic features, as well as any scientific or technical innovations or achievements.

She said efforts to preserve historical buildings initiated by past figures should also be recognised, such as the National Museum Department’s first director-general Tan Sri Datuk Mubin Sheppard, who established early initiatives to preserve dilapidated buildings with architectural value, Bernama reported.

“Beyond technological value and knowledge, these buildings also impact the heritage of a place, particularly in economic terms.

“Preserving historical buildings can also inspire the public to participate in maintaining the architecture of these historical structures,” Zuraini said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/26/greater-push-needed-in-historical-building-conservation