When you think about Malaysia, what is it that you instantly imagine? Do you envision a country filled with ancient temples and mosques? Or do you picture modern skyscrapers and glistening shopping malls? The truth is that the architecture of Malaysia is as diverse as the people who live there. Let’s learn more about this and the related Malay words below!
There is much to be seen in Malaysia in the field of architecture. Malay architecture is a fusion of modernity and tradition. The traditional elements are seen in the use of materials like wood, bamboo, palm leaves, or thatch for roofing, while the contemporary ones can be observed in the use of steel frames and corrugated metal sheets for roofs.
Malaysia is a country that has been shaped by its architecture, and the architecture of this area continues to evolve. This blog article will explore some facts about traditional and modern Malaysian architecture and the most important words you should know related to it.
Traditional Malay Architecture
Malay architecture is a type of traditional Malay house that has been around for centuries. In the past, these homes were used to sleep and store belongings while out in the fields. Today, they are mostly found in rural areas where people live off their land.
Traditional homes are built to be environmentally friendly by using natural ventilation and shading to keep the air fresh and cool in the summer months. Since ancient times, Malaysians have lived in harmony with nature. Traditional Malay houses are built with bamboo, wood, and palm leaves due to their availability in the local environment. The roofs of these homes are usually made out of coconut leaves or banana leaves for protection against rain and sun.
A traditional Malay house is made up of three parts. The first is the main house, which has four rooms on the ground floor and two upstairs to store food. The second part consists of an open pavilion with a roof where people can sit or sleep during hot nights and keep livestock in at night. The third part is called serambi, which are screened porches that provide shade from the sun and protection from mosquitoes.
The design of this type of home has changed over time, but these three elements have remained unchanged.
The Modernization Of Malay Architecture
Malay architecture is a beautiful form of art that has been with us for centuries. The modernization of this ancient design is something to be celebrated, as it preserves the culture and history while making it more accessible to those with less money.
Nowadays, Malaysia is home to some of the most impressive modern architecture. From Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Twin Towers to Putrajaya, Malaysia boasts a number of world-renowned buildings that are both technologically advanced and aesthetically pleasing. These modern structures are designed to be very high-tech, both inside and out.
The Most Common Words And Phrases
English | Malay |
timber | kayu balak |
glass | kaca |
mud | lumpur |
materials | bahan |
concrete | konkrit |
building | bangunan |
house | rumah |
modern architecture | seni bina moden |
traditional architecture | seni bina tradisional |
architectural style | gaya seni bina |
cave | gua |
temple/shrine | kuil |
pillar | tiang |
porch | beranda |
Famous Examples Of Malaysian Architecture
1. Menara Kuala Lumpur
Malay architecture is a style of building that has been around for centuries. The Menara Kuala Lumpur, the tallest building in Malaysia, was built over 40 years ago and still stands today as a symbol of Malay culture. The exterior design features Islamic geometric motifs and patterns on the walls and windows, while its interior is decorated with hand-painted tiles from China. It was designed by Cesar Pelli and had a height of 451 meters. The first Malaysian skyscraper to be built after independence took over four years to complete construction on this beautiful tower.
2. Kek Lok Si Temple
The Kek Lok Si Temple is a Buddhist temple in Malaysia. It is one of the most famous temples and tourist attractions in Penang, and it is often considered one of the most beautiful temples in all of Asia. It has become one of the most iconic buildings in Malaysia because of its unique design and architecture. The temple comprises three parts: the main hall, library, and monastery. This ancient temple is built on a hilltop with what looks like a pagoda-style roof that stands out against the green foliage.
3. City Hall Penang
The architecture of Penang’s City Hall is a mix of both Western and Eastern architectural styles. The building has a Victorian-style red brick facade and traditional Malay design elements, such as the minaret tower on top. The arches and domes found on this building add an exotic flair to the city hall while also providing an elegant facade for one of the most important buildings in town.
The Malay people have always been known for their creativity and innovation, so it should be no surprise that they would care about designing something like a city hall.
4. Sultan Abdul Samad Building
The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This building was constructed in 1897 and had a very historic feel. The building is a blend of British colonial architecture with Malay influences. The ground floor is home to many shops and restaurants, while the upper floors are offices for various organizations, including the Malaysian Institute of Architects.
It has an impressive dome that stands at 60m high, visible to travelers on the nearby highways or even those flying into Kuala Lumpur International Airport!
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If you’re curious and want to know more about this beautiful country, our Malay blog offers information about Malaysia, its people, and its traditions and culture. It provides a variety of articles on food, fashion, music, and more, so you can find anything from Malaysian recipes to the latest in Malaysian fashion trends. I definitely recommend checking it out!
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