A Review and Comparative Study of Retrofit for the Energy Efficiency of Malaysian Heritage Buildings

Abstract

Historic buildings (HB) are invaluable embodiments of culture and identity. Retrofitting HB has become a strategic imperative in Malaysia, given their substantial presence of building stock, moreover these buildings grappled with contemporary challenges. Energy retrofit allows adaptation and reuse while prioritizing environmental sustainability. However, such notions are still in their infancy stage, hindered by the gap between understanding heritage preservation techniques and energy efficiency consideration. The lack of inclusive guidance is an obstacle, restricting widespread application of retrofit intervention in HB conservation. This chapter aims to identify current limitations of Malaysia's Conservation Guidelines (HBCG) through a comparative analysis with similar international guidelines. Findings reveal lack of interpretations for contemporary green issues, unlike the latter which allows broader interpretation. The paper suggests additional guidance for practitioners in navigating environmental challenges, emphasizing intangible considerations such as heritage values and identity.