Vernacular Architecture in Old Malay Building through Malay Historiography

Abstract

Vernacular is said to be derived from the Latin term vernaculus which means domestic or local which means 'place'. However, in this context, the vernacular traditions clearly emphasize the conditions, local materials, environment and behavior as well as local customs that focus on traditional Malay society. This is reflected in the architecture that can be studied with the senses dependent on the thoughts and views of the community. Among them is the architecture of old Malay building. Research vernacular aspect of old Malay architecture displays a close link exists or affinity with nature and the community trust, which is the main source of living of the people. In fact, the nature and confidence in ensuring the community's ability to meet the objectives of old Malay income, as a protective domain, not only of the current situation, even include descriptions of culture. In this case, the old Malay architecture have been identified in the text of the Malay historiography, historical documentation as the material of the Malays. Hence, to highlight the description of the vernacular architecture of the old Malay, research will be conducted on the texts, intended to show the relationship of the Malay community with nature and belief, thus explaining its ability to meet the objectives of the production building old Malay, include their role as protectors of the current situation and highlights the value of Malay culture.

Meanings Behind the Carving Motifs of Traditional Malay Houses

“…The term 'naga berjuang' is personified as powerful and mystical creatures with benevolent and malevolent attributes. This characterization is consistent with the findings of Badaruddin et al (2020) and Jaffar et al (2017). The term 'naga' has its etymological origins in the Malay word for 'dragon' and is frequently used in Southeast Asian literature to describe mythical beings imbued with celestial power (Eslit, 2023).…”

“…Norhaiza added that the concept of the naga berjuang is dragons symmetrically facing each other, even though it does not form the real shape of a dragon. Previous researchers, such as Badaruddin et al (2020) and Jaffar et al (2017), have discussed the naga motif in Malay society and culture, as indicated in Table 4, emphasizing its symbolism of strength and power. However, with the arrival of Islam in the 14th century, the transformation of the naga motif has evolved over time due to the avoidance of figurative elements, a phenomenon supported by the study conducted by Sanusi and Legino (2015).…”

Old Malay Cities in Malay Historiographical Texts

“…The Kulim tree (Scorodocarpus borneensis) could easily be found in the Malay peninsula and is especially suitable for constructing buildings due to its hardness, heaviness, durability, fine texture, resistance to insects, and strong wooden fibres (Dumanauw, 2001: 22-23). Clearly, the ready availability and characteristics of the Kulim tree wood made it a natural choice as one of the best construction materials for traditional Malay cities (Jaffar et al, 2020). Sometimes, these materials are used in combination with each other in order to produce stronger and more varied buildings.…”