CASE STUDY-CENTRED APPROACH TO THE ADAPTIVE REUSE OF TRADITIONAL MALAY HOUSES: THE SINGLE CASE OF TOK ABU BAKAR ALANG KETAK (TABAK)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24191/myse.v13i2.12531Keywords:
Adaptive Reuse, Traditional Malay Houses, Modern Functions, Single-Case Study, TABAKAbstract
Adaptive reuse represents a sustainable conservation strategy that safeguards the cultural and historical significance of traditional buildings while accommodating contemporary needs. This study adopts a case study-centred approach to examine the adaptive reuse of the Tok Abu Bakar Alang Ketak (TABAK) house, a significant traditional Malay dwelling located in Bota, Perak, Malaysia. As a representative example of Malay vernacular architecture, the TABAK house embodies cultural values, environmental responsiveness, and heritage identity. However, like many heritage structures, it is vulnerable to neglect and obsolescence due to evolving socio-economic dynamics. This single case study investigates the adaptation of the TABAK house for modern functions without compromising its architectural integrity. The research explores its transformation from a private residence into a multifunctional space encompassing a gallery, research centre, community hub, academic facility, and historical workshop venue. Findings reveal that, when approached with cultural sensitivity and architectural respect, adaptive reuse can successfully preserve key elements of traditional Malay settings while ensuring ongoing relevance and utility. By focusing on a detailed case, this research contributes to broader discussions on sustainable heritage management and offers practical insights for future efforts in the adaptive reuse of traditional Malay houses across Malaysia.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Kartina Alauddin, Yuhainis Abdul Talib, Mohd Nurfaisal Baharuddin, Kharizam Ismail, Nor Aini Salleh
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