Istana Bandar Jugra Report #SABDMeasuredDrawings2014
1. TAYLOR’S UNIVERSITY
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) (ARCHITECTURE)
ARC 1215 METHODS OF DOCUMENTATION & MEASURED DRAWING
ISTANA BANDAR
BANTING
JANUARY 2014
3. Declaration
This report is submitted for the subject ARC 1215 Methods
of Documentation & Measured Drawings by the School of
Architecture, Building and Design of Taylor’s University to obtain
5 credits for Practicum 1.
Name of Building : Istana Bandar
Address : Kampung Sungai Iangat,
42700 Banting,
Selangor, Malaysia
A Group Effort By:
Ang Min Qi 0302123
AngYik Chiu 0303443
Astriyani 0311678
Caleb Ong Yan Weng 0315460
Cheah Eugene 1001GH77034
Cheang Eileen 1006A77249
Chew Wen Lin 1007C10646
FirasatMamun Mohammad 0306623
Gan Sze Hui 0303709
Hans Hosea Gonza 0311772
Hong Si Mun 0312643
Jevon Atmabrata 0311772
KeeZhong Jian 0309584
Lamya Yousuf Said Al-Rawahi 0312476
4. Lau Ee Tian 0309596
Lee Jia Xin 0308389
Lee Yiang Siang 0302966
Lim Pei Xuan 0303862
Lim Su Ying 0308502
Lim Zhi Hong 0304547
Ling Teck Ong 0303127
Ling Lee Yee 0306254
Muhammad Zhafri Aizuddin Azman 0308303
Ng You Shen 0309997
Rezal Adrian 0310427
Tan Zhe Shen 0312723
Wee Lun Yong 1101Q13254
Wong Jia Xin 1101G13277
Wong Jian Kai 0314794
Wong Kien Hou 0312104
Yasaanth Kirishnamoorthy 0304863
YiewQunhe 0314809
Yong Seh Li 0314345
Bachelor of Science (Architectural) (Honours)
August 2012-March 2013
Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus
Supervised by:
Mr. Wan Muhammad bin Mahmood
Mr. Noorul Fadzlee bin Khamis
5. Figure 1 : Group photo
Acknowledgement
First of all we, students of Taylor’s University with a group
consisting of 33 members who were involved in this measuring and
documenting of Istana Bandar, would like to extend our deepest
gratitude to the lecturers responsible for organizing the programs
for this short semester. We would also like to single out Mr. Wan
Muhammad and Mr. Noorul Fadzlee who gave us their willing
guidance throughout the whole semester.
The group is also grateful to Mr. Aidi and his staffs who
were willing to let us to carry out our measured drawing project
in Istana Bandar; the locals that live in Kampung Bandar who
willingly assist with their knowledge and experiences regarding
Istana Bandar and its surrounding. Also, Ms. Intan Salina and her
staff from Perbadanan Adat Melayu dan Warisan Negeri Selangor
who shared their information about Istana Bandar.
This report is also made possible with the cooperation
and support from every member of Istana Bandar Team, and
encouragement from other groups from this Practicum 1.
6. List of Figures and Diagram
Figure 1: Group photo
Figure 2 : Laser measuring equipment
Figure 3 : Nylon measuring tape
Figure 4 : Alam Shah Museum
Figure 5 : Map of Selangor
Figure 6 : Drum from Dong So’n Culture found in Kuala Langat
Figure 7 : Dabus dance
Figure 8 : Symbol of the Sultan of Selangor
Figure 9 : Royal Mouseleum at Bukit Melawati
Figure 10 : Sultan Abdul Samad
Figure 11: Makam Sultan Abdul Samad at Bukit Jugra
Figure 12 : Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah
Figure13 : Makam Diraja Klang
Figure 14 : Alaeddin Mosque or also known as Masjid Bandar
Figure 15 : Sultan Sir Hisamudin Alam Shah Al-Haj
Figure 16 : Cocos Keeling Island,Australia
Figure 17 : Sultan Musa Ghiatuddin Riayat Syah
Figure 18 : Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj
Figure 19 : Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Al-Haj
Figure 20 : Istana Bandar in Jugra, 1910
Figure 21 : Istana Mahkota Puri, Kelang, 1899
Figure 22 : Badan Warisan Signage
Figure 23 : Istana Bandar before renovation
Figure 24 : Istana Bandar sketch with the original colors
Figure 25 : The column with star ornament
Figure 26 : The main facade of Istana Bandar in 1925
Figure 27 : Istana Bandar during abandonment
Figure 28 : Istana Bandar in 1997
Figure 29 : Istana Bandar after 1999
Figure 30 : Istana Bandar after conservation
Figure 31 : Istana Deli, Medan
Figure 32 : Location of Istana Bandar in Selangor
Figure 33 : Landmark in Kampung Bandar
Figure 34 : Padang in front of Istana Bandar that once is a Balai Polis
Figure 35 : The ruins of Istana Long Putri
Figure 36 : Masjid Sultan Alaeddin
Figure 37 : The Second Primary School in Kampung Bandar
Figure 38 : The remains stairs of Royal Jetty
Figure 39 : Makam Diraja Kampung Bandar
Figure 40 : Masjid Raja Muda Musa beside Makam Diraja Kampung
Bandar
Figure 41 : The Tahfiz School built beside Istana Bandar
Figure 42 : Jugra Prison or also known as Rumah Pasung.
Figure 43 : Royal Mausoleum painted in yellow color to symbolize
royalty
Figure 44 : Moorish architecture features
Figure 45 : Ogee Arches
Figure 46 : Crenallation
7. Figure 47 : Taj Mahal
Figure 48 : Minaarets
Figure 49 : Ipoh Hall
Figure 50 : Portico in the facade
Figure 51 : Windows with western influence
Figure 52: Traditional houses
Figure 53 : Gable Finial
Figure 54 : Sulur Bayung
Figure 55 : Baba-Nyonya house in Malacca
Figure 56 : The Bumbung Limas influenced from chinese pagoda
roof
Figure 57 : The chinese ventilation block
Figure 58 : The facade depicture different architectural styles in
Istana Bandar
Figure 59 : Classical orders column
Figure 60 : Basic element of greek columns.
Figure 61 : Timber column used in the inner part of the Balai Ron
Seri
Figure 62 : Concrete column used on the first floor in Balai Rong
Seri
Figure 63 : Balai Rong Seri
Figure 64 : Columns in Kamar Beradu
Figure 65 : Pilaster
Figure 66 : Arches on the top of column distribute the load.
Figure 67 : W5
Figure 68 : W7
Figure 69 : W8
Figure 70 : W13
Figure 71 : Georgian style windows
Figure 72 : Exterior of W15
Figure 73 : Interior of W15
Figure 74 : W11
Figure 75 : W17
Figure 76 : W18
Figure 77 : W10
Figure 78 : W16
Figure 79 : W9
Figure 80 : W1
Figure 81 : W2
Figure 82 : W2
Figure 83 : W4
Figure 84 : W6
Figure 85 : D16
Figure 86 : D7
Figure 87 : D18
Figure 88 : D14
Figure 89 : D7
Figure 90 : D8
Figure 91: D15
Figure 92 : D23
8. Figure 93 : D25
Figure 94 : D10
Figure 95: D4
Figure 96 : D11
Figure 97 : D3
Figure 98 : D5
Figure 99 : D13
Figure 100 : D6
Figure 101 : D2
Figure 102 : D1
Figure 103 : D9
Figure 104 : D17
Figure 105 : D19
Figure 106 : D20
Figure 107 : D22
Figure 108 : D12
Figure 109 : D21
Figure 110 : Pagoda Roof in Masjid Demak, Indonesia
Figure 111 : Roof Lantern in the centre of Istana
Figure 112 : The natural light penetrate the space through the roof
lantern
Figure 113 : The back courtyard that connecting with the forbidden
garden
Figure 114 : The centre courtyard with two walkwaus that connecting
the building
Figure 115 : The royal male pool
Figure 116 : The royal ladies pool
Figure 117 : The pool that used to take wudhu
Figure 118 : The baluster at the main veranda
Figure 119 : The chinese porcelain baluster at the veraand beside
Kamar Beradu
Figure 120 : The concrete landing in the interior staircase
Figure 121 : The double leg-dog staircase made of concrete
Figure 122 : Pinnacles or Petunjuk Langit
Figure 123 : Stucco on the column
Figure 124 : One of the motif in the stucco
Figure 125 : The Baluster with Islamic influence
9. Figure 126 : The Cartouche surrounded the cresent and moon to
symbolize the royalty in Selangor
Figure 127 : The Royal Selangor Logo as ornament on the most
prominent location in Istan Bandar
Figure 128 : The Water Dragon symbol in the both side of Royal
Selangor symbol to enhance more the royalty
Figure 129 : The Crenallation on the top of facade
Figure 130 : The ventilation block can only be found in the certain
room
Figure 131 : The green color on the balustrade same with the chinese
ventilation block
Figure 132 : The flora pattern on Tiang Seri
Figure 133 : The star ornament which also symbolize good luck
Figure 134 : The series of Dentil under the cornice
Figure 135 : The flora motif that can only find in Kamar Beradu’c
columns
Figure 136 : The Gable Finial is mainly used to decorate Istana Bandar
Figure 137 : The gable finial on the top of forbidden garden gates
Figure 138 : The cresent and moon ornament on the gate
Figure 139 : The number carved on the gate to indicate the year
construction finished.
Figure 140 : The Jawi words not only to decorate the gate, but also
as a reminder.
Figure 141 : The Sulur Bayung that originally imitates the form of
dragon
Figure 142 : The Tumpu Kasau with multiple piece of wood carving
Figure 143 : The Tumpu Kasau with single piece of wood carving
Figure 144 : Kekisi with flora motif
Figure 145 : The Sisik Naga on the ridge of roof
Figure 146 : The Islamic Ventilation Block
Figure 147 : The archivolt detail
Figure 148 : The Royal Symbol on the pediment
Figure 149 : Flora motif
Figure 150 : Floral and Star motif
Figure 151 : Geometric motif
Figure 152 : Jejala Motif
Figure 153 : Concrete column which etched with floral motif
Figure 154 : Concrete flooring on the ground floor
10. Figure 155 : First floor flooring with chengal wood
Figure 156 : Wooden staircase in Istana Bandar
Figure 157 : The Indian ‘V’ shaped terracotta tiles
Figure 158 : The ventilation block which is made from marble
Figure 160 : The lower part of building that exposed as the proof of
strip foundation
Figure161: The column attached to concrete footing
Figure 162 : Types of footing in Istana Bandar
Figure 163 : Wooden column construction details
Figure 164 : The concrete flooring in Istana Bandar
Figure 165: The joist and wood panel can be seen from ground floor
Figure 166 : Floor beam construction detail
Figure 167 : Brick used to construted load bearing wall
Figure 168 : Roof truss in Istana Bandar
Figure 169: Gusset plate and bolts and nuts details
Figure 170 : The roof tiles details system in Istana Bandar
Figure 171 : Common roof tiles system details
Figure 172: Cement on the edge of roof to lock the roof tiles position
Figure 173 : Door hinge and wood frame details
Figure 174: Metal lock details
Figure 176: The riser construction details
Figure 178 : Egg albumen as finishing and strengthen the materials
Figure 179 : Istana Mahkota Puri, Klang
Diagram 1 : Blood Line of Sultan of Selangor
Diagram 2 : Family tree of Sultan Sulaiman
Diagram 3 : Timeline of physical changes ofIstana Bandar
Diagram 4 : Malay Architecture in Istana Bandar
Diagram 5 : Symmetry and Balance
Diagram 6 : Spatial Organization
Diagram 7 : Circulation
Diagram 8 : The division of space
Diagram 9 : Public Space 1
Diagram 10 : Public Space 2
Diagram 11 : Semi-private space
Diagram 12 : Private Space
Diagram 13 : Moorish features in Istana Bandar
Diagram 14 : Mogul features in Istana Bandar
Diagram 15 : Malay Architecture in Istana Bandar
11. Diagram 16 : Chinese Architecture in Istana Bandar
Diagram 17 : Types of Column in Istana Bandar
Diagram 18 : W5 location plan
Diagram 19 : W7 location plan
Diagram 20 : W8 location plan
Diagram 21 : W13 location plan
Diagram 22 : W15 location plan
Diagram 23 : W11 location plan
Diagram 24 : W17 location plan
Diagram 25 : W18 location plan
Diagram 26 : W10 location plan
Diagram 27 : W16 location plan
Diagram 28 : W9 location plan
Diagram 29 : W1 location plan
Diagram 30 : W2 location plan
Diagram 31 : W2 location plan
Diagram 32 : W4 location plan
Diagram 33 : W6 location plan
Diagram 34 : D16 location plan
Diagram 35 : D7 location plan
Diagram 36 : D18 location plan
Diagram 37 : D14 location plan
Diagram 38 : D7 location plan
Diagram 39 : D8 location plan
Diagram 40 : D15 location plan
Diagram 41 : D23 location plan
Diagram 42 : D25 location plan
Diagram 43 : D10 location plan
Diagram 44 : D4 location plan
Diagram 45 : D11 location plan
Diagram 46 : D3 location plan
Diagram 47 : D5 location plan
Diagram 48 : D13 location plan
Diagram 49 : D6 location plan
Diagram 50 : D2 location plan
Diagram 51 : D1 location plan
Diagram 52 : D9 location plan
Diagram 53 : D17 location plan
12. Diagram 54 : D19 location plan
Diagram 60 : D20 location plan
Diagram 61 : D22 location plan
Diagram 62 : D12 location plan
Diagram 63 : D21 location plan
Diagram 64 : Location plan of courtyard
Diagram 65 : Pool Location Plan
Diagram 66 : The Veranda Location
Diagram 67 : Ornament location plan 1
Diagram 68 : Ornament Location Plan 2
Diagram 69 : Ornament location plan 3
Diagram 70 : Ornament location plan 4
Diagram 71 : Ornament location plan 5
Diagram 72 : Ornament location plan 6
Diagram 73 : Ornament location plan 7
Diagram 74 : The strip foundation can be seen through the location
of each column
Diagram 75 : The load transfer to the foundation through the
columns and wall
Diagram 76 : Location of wooden columns
Diagram 77: Types of footing
13. Table of Content
Declaration i
Acknowledgment ii
List of Figures and Diagrams iii
Table of Content
1. Introduction 1
1.1 Introduction of Research 1
1.2 Aims and Objectives of Research 2
1.3 Significance of Research 3
1.4 Research and Measurement Methodology 4
1.4.1 Measuring Instrument and Technique 4
1.4.2 Research Technique 6
1.5 Limitation of Measurement and Research 8
2. Historical Background of The Site 9
2.1 Selangor 9
2.1.1 Origin Name of Selangor 10
2.1.2 History of Selangor 11
2.2 Kuala Langat 13
2.2.1 Origin Name of Kuala Langat 13
14. 2.2.2 History of Kuala Langat 14
2.2.3 Kuala Langat Social, Economy and Cultural Context 15
2.3 Kampung Bandar 16
2.3.1 Historiy of Kampung Bandar 16
2.3.2 Kampung Bandar Social, Economy and Cultural Context 17
2.4 Sultanate of Selangor 18
2.4.1 Raja Lumu/Sultan Salahuddin (1705-1778) 20
2.4.2 Sultan Ibrahim Shah (1778-1826) 21
2.4.3 Sultan Muhammad Shah (1826-1857) 22
2.4.4 Sultan Abdul Samad (1857-1859) 23
2.4.5 Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah (1898-1960) 25
2.4.6 Sultan Sir Hisamudin Alam Shah Al-Haj (1938-1942/1945-1960) 28
2.4.7 Sultan Musa Ghiatuddin Riayat Shah (1942-1945 Japanese Reign) 31
2.4.8 Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj (1960-2001) 33
2.4.9 Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Al-Haj (2001- Current) 35
2.5 Istana Bandar 36
2.5.1 Istana Bandar as a royal palace 36
2.5.2 Istana Bandar as a gift shop and Maahad Tahfiz School 38
2.5.3 Istana Bandar as a museum 39
15. 2.6 Changes 40
2.6.1 Before Abandonment Time 41
2.6.2 Abandonment Time 43
2.6.3 After Abandonment Time 44
3. Design 45
3.1 A diverse influence in Istana Bandar 45
3.2 Location 46
3.2.1 Balai Polis 48
3.2.2 Istana Long Puteri/Maimun 48
3.2.3 Masjid Sultan Alaeddin 49
3.2.4 Sekolah Kebangsaan Bandar 49
3.2.5 Royal Jetty 50
3.2.6 Makam Diraja 50
3.2.7 Masjid Raja Muda Musa 51
3.2.8 Tahfiz School 51
3.2.9 Jugra Prison 52
3.2.10 Makam Sultan Abdul Samad 52
3.3 Istana Bandar Spatial organization and function 53
3.3.1 Spatial Organization 53
16. 3.3.2 Space Hierarchy 54
3.3.3 The Division of Space 56
3.3.4 Function 57
3.3.4.1 Public Space 57
3.3.4.2 Semi-private Space 59
3.3.4.3 Private Space 60
3.4 A Diverse Influence of Architecctural Style 61
3.4.1 Moorish Architecture 61
3.4.1.1 Moorish Architecture in Malaysia 61
3.4.1.2 Moorish Architecture in Istana Bandar 62
3.4.2 Mogul Architecture 63
3.4.2.1 Mogul Architecture in Malaysia 63
3.4.2.2 Mogul Architecture in Istana Bandar 64
3.4.3 Colonial Architecture 65
3.4.3.1 Colonial Architecture in Malaysia 65
3.4.3.2 Colonial Architecture in Istana Bandar 66
3.4.4 Malay architecture 67
3.4.4.1 Malay Architecture in Malaysia 67
3.4.4.2 Malay Architecture in Istana Bandar 68
3.4.5 Chinese Architecture 69
3.4.5.1 Chinese Architecture in Malaysia 69
3.4.5.2 Chinese Architecture in Istana Bandar 70
17. 4. Architecture Element 71
4.1 Element of Building 72
4.1.1 Façade 73
4.1.2 Columns 74
4.1.3 Windows 77
4.1.4 Doors 94
4.1.5 Roof 120
4.1.6 Roof Lantern 121
4.1.7 Courtyard 122
4.1.8 Pool 123
4.1.9 Veranda 124
4.1.10 Stairs 125
4.1.11 Ornaments 126
4.2 Building materials 142
4.2.1 Concrete 143
4.2.2 Clay brick 144
4.2.3 Ceramic tiles 145
4.2.4 Cengal timber 146
4.2.5 Teracotta tiles 147
20. IstanaBandar1.0Introduction
1
1. Introduction
1.1 Introduction of Research (Score Area)
Istana Bandar or also known as Alaeddin Palace is located
in Kuala Langat, Selangor. This palace was built in 1899 after the
centre of administration of Selangor was moved to Jugra for Sultan
Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah, the fifth sultan of Selangor. He lived in
this palace for 35 years until his death. This palace was then left
without any occupant as the centre of administration of Selangor
was moved from Jugra to Klang.
This grand building is also famous for its greatness around
19th century. Various influence from local, Middle East, and even
Chinese influence can be seen from all sides of the building that
demonstrate its significance from architectural aspect.
This report will also cover other aspects of this building
such as history and culture that influences this building and how
this building influences its surrounding.
21. IstanaBandar1.0Introduction
2
1.2 Aim and Objective
The aim of this Practicum 1 is to develop an understanding of
the principles of building preservation and the method of recording
it in three documentation methods; measured drawings, written
documentation and photographic documentation. The objective
of the Practicum 1 is basically to introduce several methods of
documenting historic structures in order to preserve an accurate
record of historic properties that can be used in research and
other preservation activities. This is to introduce basic preparation
of measured drawings of an approved building or structure to
prescribed standard.
On the other hand, the aim and objective of this report is
to show our findings and document our research and measured
drawing of Istana Bandar for conservation or future reference.
22. IstanaBandar1.0Introduction
3
1.3 Significance of Research
The significance of this research is for us to document and
understand the architectural, historical and cultural values of Istana
Bandar at Kuala Langat that had been built over 100 years ago. To
support our documenting and understanding of Istana Bandar, this
research is accompanied by measured drawing and photograph of
the chosen site. By carrying out the research of this report, we also
learn and understand various architectural styles that influence this
area along with the site context.
23. IstanaBandar1.0Introduction
4
1.4 Research and measurement methodology
1.4.1 Measuring instruments & techniques
• Laser measuring equipment
This tool (Figure 2) was provided by Taylor’s University to help
measure with accuracy the distances that are impossible to do with
standard measuring tape.
• Nylon measuring Tape
This flexible measuring tool (Figure 3) was provided by Taylors
University to help measure curved object such as arches, columns,
and domes.
• Measuring tape
The most general tool used to measure the site with the length
ranging from 3 meters to 8 meters.
• Ruler
This tool was used to measure small details like door jamb
thickness and door leaf details.
Figure 2 : Laser measuring equipment
Figure 3 : Nylon measuring tape
24. IstanaBandar1.0Introduction
5
• Ladder
The use of ladders enabled the team to reach and measure high
places such as the top part of the building and details that could
not be reached due to our height.
• Grid Paper
Grid papers were used to record the measurement information.
The grid lines act as guide for onsite drawings.
• Camera
This equipment was used to document the process of measuring
and document the details of building.
By using those measuring equipment, we have to measure
and document the Istana Bandar on paper manually. The group
was divided into several subgroups for efficiency of measuring as
the given site was vast with a time constraint of only 5 days to
document the measurement as accurate as possible. The subgroups
are varied from hall 1, hall 2, and main hall group’s elevation and
façade, ornament and opening details and AutoCAD Groups. On
the first day, the hall 1, hall 2 and main hall groups focused on
the floor plan. Once finished, these group members were shifted to
help the elevation and façade groups and the ornament and opening
details groups. Some members were shifted to CAD team to help
with drawing and crosschecking the data with AutoCAD.
25. IstanaBandar1.0Introduction
6
1.4.2 Research Technique
We constructed our research report through various
techniques such as interviews, online research and written research.
• Site visit
We started our research on the local context by visiting and
documenting the significant building in Bandar Jugra, such
as, Masjid Bandar, The Royal Jetty, and Makam Sultan Abdul
Samad. We also visited the Local Museum which is branch of
Shah Alam Museum and The Shah Alam Museum (Figure 4)
itself to gather information about Bandar Jugra and Istana Bandar
that can support the interview data to understand history and the
cultures aspect of the site.
• Interview :
We have carried out several interviews with the locals in Jugra,
especially the elders who were familiar with the Istana Bandar
since they understand the history and culture of the building and
the site itself.
Figure 4 : Alam Shah Museum
26. IstanaBandar1.0Introduction
7
• Internet
Online material was also used to support this research to obtain
the background information pertaining to the site and the building,
especially in architectural aspect.
• Printed Material
Printed material such as books, photos, and journals were obtained
from library and Museum ShahAlam to crosscheck the information
from interview and internet and was also used as reference to
analyze the architectural style that was found on the building.
• Tutorials
Tutorials help us to crosscheck and share the information we have
and in the same time to ensure our work was progressing at the
right pace and heading in the right direction.
27. IstanaBandar1.0Introduction
8
1.5 Limitations of Measurement and Research
Istana Bandar has been left abandoned without any occupant
after the centre of administration was moved to Kuala Lumpur
(1938-1980). This made the condition of the building terrible and
left in a state of disrepair for 42 years. This building had undergone
several restoration works, returning it to its initial conditions.
Due to workmanship errors during previous restoration
works such as plastering, there were slight differences with
measurements on parts of the building that were supposed be the
same such as wall thickness. Moreover, some measurements that
were gathered from each subgroup were not perfectly accurate due
to human errors. Because of this, our measured drawings could not
be as precise as it should be. Therefore a standardised measurement
was taken to fit our documentation for further reference.
Although equipped with ladder and laser measuring
equipments, we were still unable to reach and measure all parts of
the building, especially the roof and intricate ornaments. Therefore,
we took eye level photographs and trace it to document the building.
This technique was also done for the ornaments although the height
of the building itself was a challenge for us to take the photographs
at eye level.
Even though we had visited the museum and interviewed
the locals, there were limited published books and journals that
document the physical changes. The people that are reliable to be
interviewed are limited and the owner himself has passed away.
These factors limit our source of information for the research.
Moreover, contradicting information from different sources further
complicates the report effort.
28. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
9
2.0 Historical Background of Site
2.1 Selangor
Selangor is one of the 14 states of Malaysia which is located
on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Selangor has two capital
cities which are state capital city in Shah Alam and royal capital
city in Klang. Selangor covers an area of 796,084 hectares and
comprises of 9 districts (Figure 5); Gombak, Hulu Langat, Hulu
Selangor, Klang, Kuala Langat, Kuala Selangor, Petaling, Sabak
Bernam and Sepang. Now, Selangor is the most developed state
with the largest population in Malaysia.
Figure 5 : Map of Selangor
29. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
10
2.1.1 The Origin Name of Selangor
There are various versions of the origin of Selangor’s
name. Referring to the Breakaways Selangor (2013), the name of
Selangor came from Malay word ‘selangau’, which means a bow
fly. This story begins with a wandering warrior who came from
Malacca. He felt tired and wanted to rest under a tree. Before he
fell asleep, a bow fly, in Malay word ‘Langau’, flew around his
head. It then sat on his nose and he tried to slap it but it flew away.
This incident happened few times until it left a mark on the bridge
of his nose. Because of that, every time he touched his nose he
remembers about the incident and raised his interest to explore the
place than to continue in his travel. Therefore, the state Selangau
became Selangor.
However, according to the Tourism Selangor (2013) stated
that another version claims the state name was derived from the
term Selang in Malay vocabulary meaning straits and Ur meaning
town in Tamil.
30. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
11
2.1.2 History of Selangor
There is some evidence that shows people had resided in
Selangor River areas since 2000 years ago. Several equipments
such as drum and bell from Dong So’n Culture (Figure 6) were
found in 19th century in Klang 1905 and 1944. Beside from those
discoveries, there were no more findings from the pre-historic era
until 14th century.
During15th century, Selangor was ruled by the Sultanate of
Malacca. After the fall of Malacca to the Portuguese in 1511, the
state became hotly disputed between the Portuguese, Johor, Aceh
and Siam. In 1641, The Dutch took over Malacca and brought
Bugis mercenaries from Sulawesi who later, in 1740, established
the present heredity sultanate of Selangor.
In the 19th century, the economy boomed due to the
exploitation of huge tin reserves and the growing importance of
rubber.This attracted a large influx of Chinese migrant labourers and
caused infightings for control of the tin mines. From this social and
economic havoc, the British government gained some opportunity,
which forced the Sultan of Selangor to accept a British Resident in
1874. Under the stability imposed by the British, Selangor again
prospered.
Figure 6 : Drum from Dong So’n Culture found in Kuala Langat
31. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
12
In 1896, Selangor, together with Negeri Sembilan, Perak
and Pahang, formed the Federated Malay States, with its capital
in Kuala Lumpur. The Federated Malay States evolved into the
Federation of Malaya in 1948, which became independent in 1957,
and later became Malaysia in 1963. The city of Kuala Lumpur
functioned as both the national capital of Malaysia and the state
capital of Selangor. In 1974, Selangor relinquished Kuala Lumpur
to the federal and the state capital was moved to Shah Alam after
the cession.
32. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
13
2.2 Kuala Langat
Kuala Langat is one of nine districts of Selangor and is
located in the south-western region, covering an area of 82,066.7
hectares with two administration areas.
2.2.1 The Origin Name of Kuala Langat
The name Kuala Langat originated from the name of a
nearby river, Sungai Langat. The word ‘Langat’ was derived from
Minangkabau vocabulary meaning ‘air hangat’ or warm water
(Majlis Daerah Kuala Langat 2014). The reason for the warm water
was because of the strategic position of the river that always attracts
merchants and made the water constantly warm.
While from oral source, the origin of Kuala Langat name
was associated with the vast population of ikan Selangat in the
river.
33. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.2.2 History of Kuala Langat
Kuala Langat had a strong connection with the establishment
of Selangor. In 15th century, Kuala Langat together with Kelang,
Jeram and Kuala Selangor was known as district of Kerajaan
Melayu Melaka. Kuala Langat was first explored by Bugis people
for trading purpose with Melaka in 17th century when this district
was under Kerajaan Johor. In 18th century, because of the change
of authority from Sultan to Bendahara To’ Engku Klang who
become the representative of Kerajaan Johor, Raja Lumu of Bugis
descendants was titled as Yang di-Pertuan Besar Selangor and
became the first Sultan of Selangor in 1756.
In 1857, the centre of administration of Selangor in Kuala
Selangor was moved to Jugra which is now part of Kuala Langat
by Sultan Abdul Samad, the fourth Sultan of Selangor. These was
because of several factors that have been considered by Sultan
Abdul Samad himself;
1. Politic factor.
The occurrence of Perang Klang in 1857 by Raja Mahadi, made
Klang (old spelling as Kelang) unsafe. The fact that Sultan Abdul
Samad took control of Jugra while other areas were administrated
by his officials became the main factor of the transmigration from
Kelang to Jugra
2. Economy factor.
Jugra has a stable economy from agriculture and fisheries.
3. Social factor.
This region has been explored and in some aspect is more
advanced than other regions, especially in transportation.
4. Security factor.
Jugra was not directly affected by the war.
After Jugra became the centre of administration of Selangor,
there’s a rapid growth in politic, economy, social and development
in this area. Intervention of British especially in economy and
development aspect, also advance the growth in Jugra.
34. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.2.3 Kuala Langat Social, Economic and Cultural Context
Kuala Langat comprises of multicultural residents with
majority being Malay and Chinese. Most of the Malay people
earn from agriculture and fish industries. Meanwhile most of the
Chinese earn from trading that can be seen from the rows of shop
house along the Kampung China. Other economic activities by the
folks are handicrafts, small enterprises, and food industries.
Several tourist attractions such as historical places, beaches,
agro-tourism and eco-tourism not only attract local tourists, but also
foreigners to come and visit Kuala Langat. The home stay programs
offers tourist with the lifestyle of the local such as aborigines’
village and traditional Malay village. The home stay participants
are treated as part of the family and can take part on the village
event or traditional activities.
Traditional activities such as wau and bola sepak still can
be seen being enjoyed by the locals, while the adults spend their
leisure time by fishing along the river.
35. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.3 Kampung Bandar
2.3.1 History of Kampung Bandar
The relationship between Malaya and Java has been
established since 14th century. Therefore, it was common
knowledge that most of the people around the area are Javanese and
Malay people. From oral source, those Javanese and Malay people
were the first community who came and explored the area around
Kampung Bandar and made it their home.
Kampung Bandar was officially open in 1898 right
after Sultan Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah succeeded the throne and
became the fifth Sultan of Selangor. Kampung Bandar or known
more as Bandar Temasya at the time was opened by combining
6 Kampung (Kampung Bandar, Kampung Teluk Pulai, Kampung
Kurau, Kampung Sungai Ingat & Chodoi, Kampung Air Tawar and
Kampung Sawah) and took over the role as centre of administration
of Selangor from Jugra (Kampung Bandar Banting, 2013).
The lands on Kampung Bandar were owned by the Sultan,
and because of his kind nature, the commoner could open the land
as farming areas. Several important buildings were also built around
Kampung Bandar to support the administration. This condition
made Kampung Bandar grow and develop.
Albeit having flourished as the centre of administration of
British in Selangor, Kampung Bandar quickly reverted back to a
backwater village when the centre of administration was moved to
Klang along with most of the royalties (Kampung Bandar Banting,
2013).
36. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.3.2 Kampung Bandar Social, Economy and Culture Context
Since the departure of the Sultan’s family from Kampung
Bandar, the town has become unaware of its significance to most
people. In fact, not much people know about Kampung Bandar and
where it is located. Most of the population in Kampung Bandar
are retired people while the adults are working outside of the town
and would only come back in the evening. The people in Kampung
Bandar usually spend their time by fishing or gathering in the shop
stalls around Jalan Buaya with majority of the shop houses are
owned by Chinese.
Inside the kampung area, the villagers are mostly Malay
people with traditional timber type houses. The villagers century-
long profession of fishing and farming can still be seen in these
area even though the orientation have already changed to the most
economical condition in these days. Bird nest’s houses were built
and new palm tree and dragon fruit trees were planted replacing old
ones.
Dabus (Figure 7), the tradition dance that includes martial
arts are still performed in various events in Kampung Bandar.
According to the locals, this traditional dance had been apart of
their life ever since Sultan Alaeddin had lived and ruled this area.
Even the local and neighbouring teenagers like to come and see or
learn this traditional dance.
Figure 7 : Dabus dance
37. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4 Sultanate of Selangor
The Sultan of Selangor is the title awarded the constitutional
ruler of the State of Selangor. The Sultans of Selangor are descended
from a Bugis dynasty that claimed descent from the rulers of Luwu
in the southern part of Sulawesi. (Refer to Diagram 1).
From the Royal Pedigree of Bugis, the first king, Lamadu-
sellah who is a Muslim, has three sons. In late 17th century, his
second son, Opu Tandre Bureng Daeng Relaga wandered to the
western part of archipelago. He has five sons and all of his sons
succeeded in carving their names in politics and Malay kingdom
in the archipelago. Raja Lumu, who is the grandson of Opu Tandre
Bureng Daeng Relago became the first Sultan of Selangor.
From Malay custom dictate that the son of a royal wife
takes precedence over the sons of other wives. But this custom was
not fully applied in the Sultanate of Selangor History due to several
reasons.
Figure 8 : Symbol of the Sultan of Selangor
39. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4.1 Raja Lumu/Sultan Salahuddin (1705-1778)
Raja Lumu, the first Sultan of Selangor, was the son of the
famous Bugis warrior prince Daeng Chelak. He took on the title of
Sultan Salahuddin of Selangor in 1742.
Initially Raja Lumu’s sovereignity were met with opposition
from the Sultans of Perak and Johor, as well as from the Dutch, but
eventually managed to consolidate his position as sovereign. By
1770, his legitimacy was strengthened by marriage to the niece of
the Sultan of Perak.
Raja Lumu lived and ruled Selangor in Bukit Selangor
(Bukit Melawati) until 1778. His first son, Raja Ibrahim became his
successor until 1826.
Figure 9 : Royal Mouseleum at Bukit Melawati
40. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4.2 Sultan Ibrahim Shah (1778-1826)
Sultan Ibrahim Shah was proclaimed as the Second Sultan
of Selangor after the death of his father, Raja Luwu in 1788. During
his reign, he lift his brother Raja Nala as Raja Muda of Selangor
and two others as great people in Selangor.
On 13 July 1784, Sultan Ibrahim’s fort at Bukit Melawati,
Kuala Selangor was attacked by a Dutch army, comprising of 11
ships and several vessels belonging to Raja Muhammad Ali of Siak
in Sumatera. The war lasted for 2 weeks and on 2 August, Kuala
Selangor was captured by the Dutch. Sultan Ibrahim and other royal
families retreated to Hulu Selangor. Sultan Ibrahim further retreated
to Bernam and from Bernam to Pahang. The Dutch appointed Raja
Muhammad Ali to become the new Sultan of Selangor.
On 27 July 1785, with the assistance of Bendahara Abdul
Majid, Sultan Ibrahim returned with 2,000 followers from Pahang
to recapture Kuala Selangor.After launching a surprise night attack,
Sultan Ibrahim successfully regained Selangor from the Dutch, and
he signed a treaty of mutual cooperation with Perak. Unfortunately,
the cooperation was eventually lead to a dispute over debts that
were not resolved until the intervention of Robert Fullerton, the
British Governor of Penang. Sultan Ibrahim Shah ruled for 48 years
until 1826 and has 9 sons and 4 daughters. Then his son, Sultan
Muhammad succeeded the throne.
41. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4.3 Sultan Muhammad Shah (1826-1857)
Muhammad Shah was not the son of his father’s first wife.
However, he was the Sultan’s favorite as successor, and was thus
appointed the post of Raja Muda (heir-presumptive) of Selangor
during his father’s reign. He was proclaimed as the Third Sultan of
Selangor in October 1826.
According to Malaysiafactbook (2012), the ineffective
ways of Sultan Muhammad to rule caused Selangor to scatter into
5 individual territories (Bernam, Kuala Selangor, Klang, Langat
and Lukut), with Sultan Muhammad Shah controlling only Kuala
Selangor. His failure to appoint a heir made his son, Raja Mahmud
loose the sultanate and was sidestepped in favor of Raja Abdul
Samad, the nephew and son-in-law of the late Sultan.
The only success during his reign was the setting up of tin
mines in Ampang that brought business to the people.
42. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4.4 Sultan Abdul Samad (1857-1859)
Sultan Abdul Samad ( Figure 10) was born in 1804 at Bukit
Melawati in Selangor to Raja Abdullah ibni Ibrahim Shah, younger
brother of Sultan Muhammad Shah. A dispute between the royal
court and the dignitaries of Selangor in choosing the next sultan
resulted in his choosing as the fourth Sultan of Selangor despite of
Raja Mahmud, ‘the legitimate heir’.
In 1866, Sultan Abdul Samad gave one of his son-in-laws,
Raja Abdullah bin Raja Jaafar, the power and authority over Klang.
This fueled a feud between Raja Abdullah and Raja Mahadi, the
previous administrator of Klang, leading to the Klang War (Gullick,
2004). In 1868, he also appointed his son-in-law, Tengku Kudin as
Vice Yamtuan to help him manage the state and to arbitrate during
the civil war. Tengku Kudin in turn engaged the help of Pahang,
mercenaries, and Sir Andrew Clarke of the British Empire, marking
the first British involvement in the politics of Selangor.
Figure 10 : Sultan Abdul Samad
43. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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In August 1874, after Selangor suffered series of pirate
attacks, Frank Swettenham was assigned as a live-in advisor to
Sultan Abdul Samad. In October 1875, Sultan Abdul Samad sent
a letter to Sir Andrew Clarke, requesting for Selangor to be placed
under the British protectorate and thus, Selangor became part of the
Federated Malay Stated, together with Perak, Negeri Sembilan and
Pahang.
During his reign, he relocated his royal capital to Jugra and
built Jugra Palace where he lived until his death on 6 February 1889,
then aged 93, and was laid to rest in his own mausoleum (Makam
Sultan Abdul Samad) (Figure 11), also in Jugra. As Raja Muda
Musa, the heir-apparent had died in 1884, Sultan Abdul Samad was
succeeded by Raja Muda Musa’s eldest son, Raja Sulaiman.
Figure 11: Makam Sultan Abdul Samad at Bukit Jugra
44. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4.5 Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah (1898-1960)
Tengku Sulaiman (Figure 12) was born on the 11th of
September, 1863. He was under the tutelage of his grandfather and
father, Raja Muda Musa. Unfortunately, Raja Muda Musa passed
away on July of 1884 before he could succeed the throne. Rasdi
(2012) states that as there were no direct heir to the throne, Tengku
Sulaiman was proclaimed as the 5th Sultan of Selangor upon the
death of his grandfather in 1898 and subsequently took the name
Sultan Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah.
SultanAlaeddin Sulaiman Shah was knighted with the Order
of St Michael and St George (GCMG) by the United Kingdom and
granted the title Sir. In 1920 he appointed his eldest son, Tengku
Musa Eddin as Raja Muda of Selangor. However, due to accusations
relating with ‘immoral behaviour’, he was dismissed as the Raja
Muda of Selangor by the British Resident at the time, Theodore
Samuel Adams. This accusation however, did not stand with many
Malays in Selangor who believed that the real reason for the Raja
Muda’s demotion was his refusal to follow Adam’s orders although
there is no information as to what the order were.
Figure 12 : Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah
45. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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The title of Raja Muda was instead given to Tengku Alam
Shah over his older brother, Tengku Badar Shah (both were from
different mother than Tengku Musa Eddin) (Diagram 1). Sultan
Alaeddin had pleaded for the case of Tengku Musa Eddin, even went
to discuss the issue in London but all of this effort was futile. March
31st, 1938 marks the passing of Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah
as was stated in Malaysia Fact Book (2012). He was 75 years old at
the time and was interred at the Royal Mausoleum in Klang (Figure
13). He was succeeded by Raja Muda Alam Shah.
During his reign, Sultan Alaeddin was described as a
religious person. His obligation and responsibility to spread and
further enhance the knowledge of Islam had caused an increase
in scholars in his kingdom. Following Prophet Muhammad’s
teachings, Sultan Alaeddin’s personality is reflected in such a
way that combines the efforts of cooperation, integration and
compatibility between the government and scholars. A mosque in
Kuala Langat named Alaeddin Mosque (Figure 14) is a standing
testament to Sultan Suleiman’s credibility as a religious leader. The
mosque was constructed according to his conception, the Sultan
also regularly gave sermons for Friday prayers at the mosque.
Figure13 : Makam Diraja Klang
Figure 14 : Alaeddin Mosque or also known as Masjid Bandar
47. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4.6 Sultan Sir Hisamuddin Alam Shah Al-Haj
(1938-1942/1945-1960)
Born on 13th of May 1898, Tengku Alam Shah (Figure 15)
was the second son of Sultan Alaeddin’s marriage with his second
wife, Cik Aminah binti Pelong. He received his education at the
Malay College Kuala Kangsar. After serving as Tengku Panglima
Raja, he was appointed as Tengku Laksamana of Selangor in 1931.
Tengku Alam Shah was not expected to succeed the throne
because he had an elder half-brother (Tengku Musa Eddin) and an
elder brother (Tengku Badar Shah) in line for the throne. However,
due to Raja Muda Musa being dismissed from his post by British
Resident Theodore Samuel Adams (1885–1961), Tengku Alam
Shah was chosen over Tengku Badar Shah as the new Raja Muda
in 1936 and eventually succeeded the throne after the passing of his
father.
Figure 15 : Sultan Sir Hisamudin Alam Shah Al-Haj
48. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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During the Japanese Occupation of Malaya in 1942, an
event took place whereby Col. Fujiyama, the Japanese Military
Governor of Selangor, invited Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah to
King’s House in Kuala Lumpur. In a meeting with the Japanese
officer, the Sultan confessed that he was influenced by the British
Resident to support the British war efforts againts the Japanese.
Sultan Hisamuddin was later removed from his seat of power after
surrendering the regalia to his Tengku Musa Eddin. In November
1943, Japanese administration proclaimed Tengku Musa Eddin as
the 6th Sultan of Selangor with the name Sultan Musa Ghiatuddin
Riayat Shah of Selangor. (Wangsamahkota, 2012)
Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah refused to work with the
Japanese and in his defiance declined their allowance awarded to
him and his family. With the ending of Japanese occupation in 1945
and the return of British forces to Malayan soil, Sultan Alam Shah
Hisamuddin was restored to the throne, while the former Sultan
Musa was banished to Cocos Keeling Islands, Australia (Figure
16).
On the 1st of March, 1946 Sultan Hisamuddin played an
instrumental role in the formation of the United Malays National
Organisation (UMNO) against Malayan Union which he had helped
establish earlier. He had officiated the First Malay Unity Congress
at the Sultan Sulaiman Club in Kuala Lumpur.
Figure 16 : Cocos Keeling Island,Australia
49. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah was sworn in on 14th of
April, 1960 as the 2nd Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia for a
term of 5 years. Unfortunately due to an unidentified illness, he
passed away on September 1, 1960 which was the day set for his
installation. He was laid to rest in the Tomb of Diraja in Klang,
Selangor. During his short term of office as Yang di-Pertuan Agong,
he had proclaimed the end of the emergency in Malaya. Sultan
Hisamuddin Alam Shah was betrothed to Raja Jemaah binti Raja
Ahmad in 1919. She was a Selangor royal family and served as
Tengku Ampuan of Selangor and later Raja Permaisuri Agong. She
passed away in 1973. Sultan Hisamuddin married his second wife
in 1927 by the name of Cik Hajah Kalsom binti Mahmud.
Tengku Abdul Aziz, the heir apparent son of the Sultan’s
marriage with Raja Jemaah succeeded the throne of Selangor’s
Sultanate, took the name of Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah.
50. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4.7 Sultan Musa Ghiatuddin Riayat Shah (1942-1945)
Tengku Musa Eddin (Figure 17) was the eldest son and heir
apparent of Sultan Alaeddin. He was born on 9th December 1893
by his royal consort Tengku Ampuan Mahrum binti Raja Muda
Tunku Dhiauddin. He was born in Jugra, Selangor with the name
Tengku Musa Eddin.
He received private education and was made Tengku
Mahkota in 1903. In 1920 Tengku Musa Eddin was given the post
of Raja Muda Selangor after the post had been vacated for quite
some time. Described as an intelligent young man, he represented
his father on the State Council established by the British colonial
authority.
It was to be seen that Raja Muda Musa would certainly
inherit the throne of Selangor. However, due to accusations brought
forward by the British Resident Adams, Raja Muda Musa was
dismissed from his post in 1934 for immoral behaviour.
Sultan Sulaiman did all he could for his son. He pleaded
that Tengku Musa Eddin be returned to his post, but to no avail. The
title of Raja Muda was instead given to Tengku Alam Shah over his
older brother, Tengku Badar. The appointment occurred on 20 July
1936. Tengku Musa Eddin was given the title of Tengku Kelana Jaya
Putera. Tengku Musa Eddin was present during Sultan Hisamuddin
Alam Shah’s coronation on 26th January, 1939. (Malaysiafactbook,
2012)
Figure 17 : Sultan Musa Ghiatuddin Riayat Syah
51. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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Upon the return of the colonial powers to Malaya in
1945, in 1945, Sultan Musa was in turn dethroned by the British
Military Administration under Lord Louis Mountbatten and Sultan
Hisamuddin was installed again as Sultan of Selangor. Sultan Musa
was exiled to the Cocos Keeling Islands (Figure 16) but was later
permitted to return and settle in Singapore in May 1946. After
Tengku Musa Eddin fell ill, he was brought back to Selangor a few
months before his death on 8th November, 1955. Tengku Musa was
buried beside his father at the Royal Mausoleum in Klang (Figure
9). His consort, Syarifah Mastura Shahabuddin of Kedah, became
Tengku Permaisuri or Queen during his brief reign. She died in
1958. The couple had no children.
52. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4.8 Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj (1960-2001)
Born on 8 March 1926 at Istana Bandar, Sultan Salahuddin
Abdul Aziz (Figure 18) is the eldest son and heir apparent of Sul-
tan Hisamuddin Alam Shah Al-Haj ibni Almarhum Sultan Alaeddin
Sulaiman Shah by his royal consort Tengku Ampuan Raja Jemaah
binti Raja Ahmad.
As a child, he received his education at the Pengkalan Batu
Malay School in Klang in 1934. In 1936, he went to study at the
Malay College Kuala Kangsar until the Japanese occupation. After
World War 2, he went to England in 1947 to further his studies at
the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London
for two years.
Upon his return from the United Kingdom, he served with
the Civil Service Department as a Trainee Officer with the Selangor
Survey Department and later served as an Inspector of Schools for
eight years. (Hashim, 1985)
He attended a short-term course at the Malay Military Troop
in Port Dickson for six months in 1952 and was bestowed with the
Queen Commission in the rank of captain. He was later promoted
to the rank of major.
Figure 18 : Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj
53. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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Tengku Abdul Aziz Shah was appointed as the Tengku Lak-
samana of Selangor on 1st August 1946 and as the Raja Muda on
13th May 1950. He succeeded the throne after the passing of his
father, Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah on 1st September 1960. His
coronation was on 28th June 1961 and he took the name of Sultan
Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah.
Sultan Salahuddin was responsible for the cession of Kuala
Lumpur from Selangor to the Federal Government to form a Fed-
eral Territory on 1st February 1974. He was also the founder of the
city of Shah Alam as the new capital for Selangor in 1978.
According to Raden (2013), Sultan Salahuddin was the old-
est ruler to be elected as the eleventh Yang di-Pertuan Agong on
April 26, 1999 and installed on 11 September 1999. However, after
two years and 6 months, he died in office on November 21, 2001.
He was interred in the Royal Mausoleum near Sultan Sulaiman
Mosque in Klang.
54. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.4.9 Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Al-Haj (2001-Current)
Tengku Idris Shah (Figure 19) was born on 24th December
1945, as the first son of Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz (then Raja
Muda) and his first wife, Raja Saidatul Ihsan Tengku Badar Shah.
He began his education at Malay Primary School in Kuala
Lumpur before attending St. John’s Institution until 1959. Tengku
Idris was proclaimed Raja Muda in 1960. He continued his study
in Hale School in Australia and later furthered his studies in Lang-
hurst College, United Kingdom in 1964.
Raja Muda Idris later joined the government service and
served in the Kuala Lumpur District Office and police department
at that time. On 24th April 1999, he was appointed Regent of Sel-
angor after his father became the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
On 22nd November 2001, Tengku Idris was proclaimed
Sultan of Selangor, succeeding Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz, who
died after only two years as Yang di-Pertuan Agong. He took the
regnal named Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah. His formal coronation
took place on 9 March 2003 at Istana Alam Shah, Klang.
As Sultan, he is known to have revoked state awards given
by him or by his father such as revoking the Datuk title of a busi-
nessman who pleaded guilty for financial fraud, and also suspended
others who have been charged in court for various misdealing.
Figure 19 : Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Al-Haj
55. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.5 Istana Bandar
2.5.1 Istana Bandar as a Royal Palace
Istana Bandar (Figure 20) was a palace owned by the
fifth Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah. It
is also known as Istana Alaeddin and Istana Temasya. Situated in
Kampung Bandar, it was once the centre of administration for the
state of Selangor. One of the reasons Sultan Alaeddin chose the
site was because of its short distance to existing roads and river
which was the main transportation to the nearby city of Jugra and
Klang (Rasdi, 2012). Construction began in 1899 and finished in
1903. Unlike the official royal palace of Mahkota Puri (Figure 21),
Istana Bandar was designed by the sultan and its construction was
financed from his personal wealth. He moved to Istana Bandar in
1905.
The palace was built during bitter family crisis between
his first wife, Tengku Ampuan Mahrum of royal lineage and his
second wife, Cik Aminah binti Pelong who was of common born
(Kuala Langat District Council, 2014). Sultan Alaeddin built the
palace for his second wife as Tengku Ampuan Mahrum stayed in
Mahkota Puri. Sultan Alaeddin attend to both his wives’ needs by
communing back and forth to each palace. His second wife passed
away after 2 to 3 years of living in Istana Bandar. His Majesty’s
subsequent wives lived in Istana Bandar until he passed away in
1938.
Figure 20 : Istana Bandar in Jugra,1910
Figure 21 : Istana Mahkota Puri, Kelang, 1899
56. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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Amongst the scarce history records that could be found was
that Sultan Alaeddin’s grandson, who was to be the eighth Sultan
of Selangor, Tengku Abdul Aziz Shah, was born in 1926 in Istana
Bandar. He spent his youth being educated with Islamic teaching
and palace etiquettes and protocol by his grandfather and father,
Sultan Hisamuddin.
After the death of Sultan Alaeddin, his family moved to
Klang and the palace was abandoned and fell into disuse (Rasdi,
2012).
57. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.5.2 Istana Bandar as a Gift Shop and a Tahfiz School
After several decades of being abandoned, the state gov-
ernment of Selangor took initiatives to restore the building to its
original state as the building suffered deteriorations from disrepair.
The restoration effort began in late 1980’s and completed in 1990
(D’Kampung Bandar, 2013).
The state government briefly used the palace as the district’s
art and craft center. This didn’t last long however as there was little
response from the public at the time. On mid June1997, Selangor
Islamic Religious Office temporarily used Istana Bandar as a Tahfiz
school to teach the Qur’an while waiting for a permanent building
to be constructed nearby. The Tahfiz School finished construction in
1999 and again Istana Bandar was left vacated.
58. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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2.5.3 Istana Bandar as a Living Museum
In 2008, Istana Bandar was officially entrusted to the
Selangor’s Board of Museum for restoration and conservation
purposes. After completion it was subsequently handed over to the
Malay Customs and National Heritage Corporations of Selangor
(PADAT) (D’Kampung Bandar, 2013). At present, there is a plan to
retrofit and repurpose the palace as a living museum with different
concept from Museum Alam Shah.
Based on statements given by PADAT officials, the living
museum will be used to show the original condition of Istana
Bandar in the past complete with furniture and royal equipments.
The palace will be divided into 3 main areas. Balai Mengadap Baru
will show the background history of Jugra and Istana Bandar itself
while the center area which is Ruang Keluarga Diraja and Dapur
Masak will show the equipment and furniture that were used in the
past. The last showroom which is located in Ruang Beradu will be
used to show the handicrafts from the entire state of Selangor.
Figure 22 : Badan Warisan Signage
59. IstanaBandar2.0HistoricalBackground
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Diagram 3 : Timeline of physical changes ofIstana Bandar
2.6 Changes
There were several physical changes on Istana Bandar since
it was built. The changes on this building can be divided into 3
phases (Diagram 3); before the abandonment, abandonment and
after abandonment.
TIMELINE OF PHYSICAL CHANGES IN ISTANA BANDAR
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2.6.1 Before Abandonment Period
Before Istana Bandar was abandoned, it was used as a
Royal Palace by Sultan Alaeddin, the fifth Sultan of Selangor and
his family. The first block of building which is the Balai Mengadap
Diraja was erected in 1898, with subsequent buildings built in
stages since the reign of Sultan Alaeddin. At the beginning (Figure
23), it had no veranda (anjung, or sotoh). Then in 1914, the south
side area had been added with 2 rooms and the rear façade was
rebuilt grandly with western (colonial) and Moorish style with
addition of a fence that leads to beautiful garden with Jawi carving
on the top of the gate.
Figure 23 : Istana Bandar before renovation
Figure 24 : Istana Bandar sketch with the original colors
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The star ornament (Figure 25) on the column that can still
be seen became the mark of the old building. In 1925, the main
façade also had been renovated with an additional porch (Figure
26). The only significant event that happened during this era was
the birth of Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz who years later became
the seventh sultan of Selangor. Around this time, Istana Bandar was
painted in blue pale and yellow colours to symbolise royalty of
Selangor.
Figure 25 : The column with star ornament
Figure 26 : The main facade of Istana Bandar in 1925
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Figure 27 : Istana Bandar during abandonment
2.6.2 Abandonment Period
Since 1938, after SultanAlaeddin Sulaiman Shah has passed
away, the palace was left vacant without any occupant. Without
any care and maintenance for decades, Istana Bandar slowly lost its
grandeur and looked really decayed (Figure 27).
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Figure 28 : Istana Bandar in 1997
Figure 29 : Istana Bandar after 1999
Figure 30 : Istana Bandar after conservation
2.6.3 After Abandonment Period
In late 1980s, there was a plan to restore the Istana Bandar
to its original condition. The restoration was completed in 1990
with the adding of a flat roof on this building. In 1997 (Figure
28), this building was used as Maahad Tahfiz School with the wall
painted in yellow while the ornament painted in white. After 1999,
this building was again vacated and partially abandon. This can be
seen from the paint on the wall reversed to the white colours while
the ornament painted on white colours (Figure 29).
Some damages on the building were then repaired by
Heritage Department of Malaysia during December 2008; new
coats of paint, pale yellow on the wall and white colour on the
ornaments, repaired balustrades, pillars and windows including the
floor with the closest material and design as the original design with
the addition of electricity to the building (Figure 30). Today Istana
Bandar is still undergoing gradual restoration with the plan of using
Istana Bandar as The Living Museum.
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Figure 31 : Istana Deli, Medan
3.0 Design
3.1 A diverse influence in Istana Bandar
Istana Bandar is considered as one of the most remarkable
heritage architecture in this region with its unique form of
architecture. This Palace was built after a bitter family crisis
between Sultan Alaeddin and his wives and his visit to the Palace
of Deli, Medan (Figure 31) a year before Istana Bandar was built
which gave him the idea of a grand palace with rich Islamic
architecture feature. The local architecture and the Chinese worker
also influence the design on this building.
Although there is no evidence Istana Bandar was designed
by an architect, the architectural elements still blends well with
local architecture which were designed to suit the local context by
adapting new materials application and technology of its time. Not
only is the palace influenced by its surrounding, it also influenced
the design of other buildings in its vicinity.
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3.2 Location
From the Figure 32, we can deduce why Sultan Alaeddin
chose to build his palace at Kampung Bandar. Istana Bandar is
situated in a strategic location nearby the joining of two different
rivers.The reason for the importance of the river is because it was the
main form of transportation at the time as travelling by land would
take too long.The first path (west) leads to Jugra and eventually to
the straits of Malacca. The second path (east) leads past Banting
Village and third path (north) leads to town of Klang, the centre
of administration for Selangor. The Sultan’s official palace, Istana
Mahkota Puri, was also situated in Klang. therefore it was easy for
Sultan Alaeddin to travel back and forth between Istana Bandar and
Istana Mahkota Puri.
Figure 32 : Location of Istana Bandar in Selangor
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The location of Istana Bandar is strategic due to the
existance of a nearby hill which protects Kampung Bandar from
the harsh monsoon wind. Compared to modernising city such as
Kuala Lumpur and Klang, Kampung Bandar is quite seclude and
peaceful, providing the Sultan with a retreat away from the bustling
city. The construction of Istana Bandar turned Kampung Bandar
from a backwater village to a thriving town. New buildings were
also built such as Masjid Bandar and Schools (Figure 33). For the
duration of Sultan Alaeddin’s reign, Kampung Bandar became
the royal town due to the gradual improvement in economic from
time to time.The development of the town creates a lot of business
opportunity and attract the locals even foreigners to choose this
place to start and expand their business.
ISTANA BANDAR
EX-BALAI POLIS
TAHFIZ SCHOOL
ISTANA LONG PUTERI
MASJID BANDAR
SCHOOL
ROYAL CEMETRY
CEMETRY
JUGRA PRISON
Figure 33: Landmark in Kampung Bandar
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Figure 34 : Padang in front of Istana Bandar that once is a Balai Polis
Figure 35 : The ruins of Istana Long Putri
3.2.1 Balai polis
Based the interview, Mr. Hazli (2014) stated that there was
once a police station located infront of Istana Bandar (Figure 34).
However, this building had been demolished and now only the
foundation remains. This empty space is now used as a play ground
by the village to play football and other sports.
3.2.2 Istana Long Puteri/Maimun
This palace was built for the granddaughter of Sultan Abdul
Samad, Raja Long Puteri. It had wooden structures and concrete
floor with 3 separates areas. Now, the only remaining part of the
building that can be seen from the ruins is the staircase (Figure 35).
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Figure 36 : Masjid Sultan Alaeddin
Figure 37 : The Second Primary School in Kampung Bandar
3.2.3 Masjid Sultan Alaeddin
Masjid Sultan Alaeddin (Figure 36) located approximately
200 meters from Istana Bandar, this masjid was built by Sultan
Alaeddin in 1924. It has the architectural influences from Deli in
Medan, North Sumatra. Based on the interview with the villagers,
Sultan Alaeddin often delivered Friday sermons at this mosque
which demostrate the sultan’s credibility as a religious leader.
3.2.4 Sekolah Kebangsaan Bandar
Kampung Bandar Primary School (Figure 37) now is more
than 100 years old. it was founded on 13 march 1989 with the
name Sekolah Melayu Bandar Dandan Bakly Raja. The first build-
ing was erected around 400 meters from Istana Bandar, but after
five years it was moved because the land is being used to build a
worship place. In 1952, the school was again relocateed but it still
stands relatively unchanged and it is currently used as a religious
school.
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Figure 38 : The remains stairs of Royal Jetty
Figure 39 : Makam Diraja Kampung Bandar
3.2.5 Royal Jetty
This old jetty (Figure 38) is located not far from Istana
Bandar and the tributary flow to Klang and Banting made this
jetty an important spot for transportation during Sultan Abdul
Samad and Sultan Alaeddin regime. The water transportation was
important at that time because automobile was not a commadity
yet. Sultan Alaeddin take the boat back and forth often to visit to
Istana Mahkota Puri where his first wife stayed in.
3.2.6 Makam Diraja
Makam Diraja (Figure 39) is the place where the relatives
of the Sultan were buried while the neighboring cemetery is for
the local. The grave of the closest relative of the sultan was built
with marble instead of normal stone, that differentiate it with other
gravestone. The ruins of Masjid Raja Muda Musa, which was the
first mosque built in Kampung Bandar back then before the Masjid
Sultan Abdul Samad was built, is located right beside the cemetery
as well.
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Figure 40 : Masjid Raja Muda Musa beside Makam Diraja Kampung Bandar
Figure 41 : The Tahfiz School built beside Istana Bandar
3.2.7 Masjid Raja Muda Musa
This mosque (Figure 40) was built in 1875 and can
accommodate around 150 people inside the building. It has been
functioning for 45 years until 1920 when the building was damaged.
The place was still being used until the new mosque, Masjid Sultan
Alaeddin construction was finished.
3.2.8 Tahfiz School
This new building (Figure 41) was built in 1999 for learning
Qur’an. While this building was still under construction, Istana
Bandar was used temporarily as both class room and dormitory.
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Figure 42 : Jugra Prison or also known as Rumah Pasung.
Figure 43 : Royal Mausoleum painted in yellow color to symbolize royalty
3.2.9 Jugra Prison
Jugra Prison (Figure 42) is situated in Mukim Jugra and
known as Rumah Pasung. Built in 1875, this building was used
as a place to execute an order through a judicial system during
that time. This two storey building is the first jail in Selangor and
after restoration in 2002 by Department of National Heritage, this
building became an in-situ museum.
3.2.10 Makam Sultan Abdul Samad
Makam Sultan Abdul Samad (Figure 43) is a Selangor
Royal Mausoleum located at Jugra Hills. The makam of the Sultan
is situated inside the structure while other royals and important
dignitaries were buried around it. The grave stones are wrapped in
green, black, yellow and white color depending on their position in
the Royalty of Selangor.
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Ground Floor
Diagram 5 : Symmetry and Balance
3.3 Istana Bandar Spatial Organization and Function
According to Syed Ariffin (2000;15) ‘’the palaces of the
sultans were of paramount importance in feudal Malay society, not
only as places of residence but as centers of administration, learning
and culture’’. He also added that, “the palaces not only incorporated
many of the beliefs of the sultans and reflected their way of life but,
adopts the style common to the various regions of the Peninsula
like Acheh, Sumatera, Java an Riau’’(2008;15).
3.3.1 Spatial Organization
Spatial organization in a building is important. It can affect
the human behaviour and movement in the building. The planning
of space within Istana Bandar is symmetrical and balanced on both
sides, from the size, form and the function of space. The symmetry
can be seen from both the elevation and from the floor plan (Diagram
5).
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PUBLIC SEMI-PRIVATE PRIVATE
Ground Floor
First Floor
Diagram 6 : Spatial Organization
3.3.2 Space Hierarchy
There are three main areas in the palace which are
arranged according to hierarchy (Diagram 6); the public space for
commoners, semi-private space for palace officials and private area
for the royal family. There is a first floor for the common space
and semi private space. However, rooms for the royal families are
only situated on the lower floor. In total, this building contains forty
rooms to accommodate the needs of the royal family.
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Ground Floor
COMMONERS ROYAL WORKERS
Diagram 7 : Circulation
The cluster organization is located at the main area on the
centre part of building. It acts as a private space for the royals which
created an absolute circulation mainly for them. The commoners
still can access the surrounding of the building freely and the public
space to meet the Sultan when granted. But, for the semi-public
space, it only can be accessed by the royals, officers and the royal
workers with a specific circulation (Diagram 7) .
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MEN WOMEN
Ground Floor
Diagram 8 : The division of space
3.3.3 The Division of Space
The Sultan was known as a religious person who followed
his religion rule and custom. This is the other factor that influenced
the space planning in Istana Bandar. The rule that prohibits
socializing amongst unmarried men and women in Islam demands
for the seclusion from the opposite sex can be seen in Diagram 8.
The room for Sultan was located in the centre where he can freely
access the public space to carry out official businesses and also
access to the other space. Meanwhile, the rooms that are shown
in red colours were for the Sultan’s wives and daughters with the
direct access to the inner and outer courtyard.
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BILIK MENUNGGU BALAI MENGADAP
Ground Floor
Diagram 9 : Public Space 1
3.3.4 Function
Each room in each area have different functions and users.
These are the functions for each room when Istana Bandar was used
as a Royal Palace.
3.3.4.1 Public Space
It is a social space that is generally open and accessible to people.
It is a space that can be entered without the need of an authority.
This space consists of a few rooms, which are;
• Bilik Menunggu - Waiting Room
The waiting room which is located at the ground floor of the
assembly hall is to serve the people who want to pay respect to
the Sultan.
• Balai Mengadap - Assembly Hall
It is a gathering hall for commoners, palace officials and the royal
family
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BALAI RONG SERI
First Floor
Diagram 10 : Public Space 2
• Balai Rong Seri - Throne Room
It acts as a big common hall in a palace, used for a ruler or a king
to conduct over official ceremonies. It is considered an office or
a workplace for the ruler. Official ceremonies are usually held in
this space such as hold councils and grant audiences.
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BILIK BILIK PEJABAT RUANG BERISTIRAHAT
Ground Floor
First Floor
Diagram 11 : Semi-private space
3.3.4.2. Semi- Private Space
It is a space with some degree of privacy. Only certain people with
authority can enter the space such as the workers and servants of
the palace. .
• Bilik - Room
Smaller than other common rooms, it is situated on both the
ground and first floor. It is used as storerooms to keep belongings
such as light fixtures, furniture and etc.
• Bilik Pejabat - Office
There are two offices facing each other located on the ground
floor. It is used as confidential rooms for the meeting of officials.
• Ruang Beristirehat - Resting Room
It is a resting area for the Sultan and his family to spend quality
time together.
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Ground Floor
KAMAR SANTAP DIRAJAKAMAR BERADU ROYAL BATH
Diagram 12 : Private Space
3.3.4.3 Private Space
It is a space solely for the royal family. Only the higher
authorities are allowed to enter these spaces.
• Kamar Santap Diraja - Royal Banquet Room
This room is used for hosting parties, banquets, receptions, or
other social events. It is connected with the kitchen for the ease
of such events. The people who attended the events are solely
invited by the Sultan.
• Kamar Beradu- Royal Room
The bedrooms used by the wives of the Sultan. The Kamar Beradu
are located at strategic location for the ease of accessing to other
spaces like assembly hall, royal kitchen and the royal banquet
room.
• Laman - Courtyard
The courtyards in the middle of the buildings are one of the
characteristics of the Moorish style architecture to allow the
cooling effect to take part in the building. In addition, it can serve
to beautify the palace.
• Royal Bath
The royal bath on the left is enclosed by the surrounding building
which is preferred to be used by the Sultan’s wives. The royal bath
on the right is more open, which is preferred to be used by the
men in the palace. The royal bath is connected to the nearby river,
therefore it is never dry. The royal bathe can also be used to show
the tide of the river.
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Figure 44 : Moorish architecture features
3.3 A Diverse Influence of Architecctural Style
Although Istana Bandar has been under several renovation
and restoration, the several architecture feature which is from
Moorish, Indian, Chinese, Colonial and Malay architecture style
are still remains the same with its original design.
3.3.1 Moorish Architecture
3.3.1.1 Moorish Architecture in Malaysia
This style of architecture refers to the Islamic architecture
that was developed around North Africa and south-western Europe.
The style was prominent during 8th to the 15th century. This style
was influenced by the Greco-Roman, Berber and Visigoth cultures
and tradition hence influencing the Mediterranean culture. The main
elements of this style include the interior decorations and relating to
nature like the courtyard with gardens, fountains, reflecting pools
and landscaping.
According to the Islamic laws, decorations on screens and
the walls were strictly followed by the rules of the Quran that
forbids the copying of natural forms e.g. depicting human figures
and animals in the designs. According to Azim (2009), the main
canons for Islamic architecture are calligraphies, Arabesque or
Islimi, and geometric shapes (Figure 44).
The pattern of the stars, crescents, hexagons and octagons
are emmbeded within a geometric composition. The designs are
usually in primary colours, but most prominent in gold silver and
white.
This style started to influence the Malaysia architecture
at early 20th century (early colonial times) and can also be seen
through the Istana Jugra’s decorations, arches and the special
materials being clay and tiles to adapt to the climate.
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Diagram 13 : Moorish features in Istana Bandar
Figure 46 : Crenallation
Figure 45 : Ogee Arches
3.3.1.2 Moorish Architecture in Istana Bandar
Moorish architecture can be seen in Istana Bandar through
its use of geometrical shape in its doors and windows, for example
the carve ornament on the wall. Moorish elements such as ogee
arches (Figure 45) and crenellated rooftops (Figure 46) can be seen
clearly throughout the private space of the palace. The horseshoe
arches can be found at the rear of Balai Menghadap.
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Figure 47 : Taj Mahal
3.3.2 Mogul Architecture
3.3.2.1 Mogul Architecture in Malaysia
The Mogul architectural style started in India after Babur’s
victory defeating the Lodi dynasty. Mogul style is a combination of
Islamic, Persian and Indian architecture. The Mogul dynasty started
in 1526 and lasted 320 years. The reason of it being prominent is
due to its sculptural effects. The Mogul architecture influences in
Malaysia have also started along with the Moorish period in the
20th century during the colonial period of Great Britain. The Istana
has been influenced by the mogul architecture in various ways, for
example minarets which are located at the front of the building and
most of the arches are carved with mogul design (Kamiya, 2010).
A lot of Indian significant designs and styles can be seen in
Istana Bandar.
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Diagram 14 : Mogul features in Istana Bandar
Figure 48 : Minaarets
3.3.2.2 Mogul Architecture in Istana Bandar
The small minarets (Figure 48) dotting the façades and
surroundings of Istana Bandar reflect the prominent element of the
palace. The use of ‘Jali’, which is latticed screen, is also apparent
and is employed for fixed ventilation above some window types
(CA, 2012).
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3.3.3 Colonial Architecture
3.3.3.1 Colonial Architecture in Malaysia
Through the history of Malaysia, the architectural styles
here have been influenced by various methods and the biggest way
of being influenced is due to its colonization by different countries.
There are a few different sorts of colonial styles of architecture
in Malaysia but the most prominent one being a mix of British
architecture along with the other certain styles like Moorish and
Mogul during the colonial period of Great Britain in Malaysia.
The colonial type of style has been part of Malaysia’s design from
around the 17th century till the mid 20th century. (Chun, Hasan, &
Noordin, 2005).
The colonization of Great Britain has led to the construction
of numerous administrative buildings in Malaysia.
Figure 49 : Ipoh Hall
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Diagram 15 : Colonial Architecture in Istana Bandar
Figure 50 : Portico in the facade
Figure 51 : Windows with western influence
3.3.3.1 Colonial Architecture in Istana Bandar
British colonial architectural style is generally apparent
in Istana Bandar’s façade and most of its columns (Figure 50).
Furthermore it can be seen in some parts of the window decorative
elements (Figure 51).
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3.3.4 Malay Architecture
3.3.4.1 Malay Architecture in Malaysia
The traditional Malay architecture shows a unique archi-
tectural process ideally suited to tropical climatic conditions such
as wide roof overhangs and high-pitched roofs. Building on stilts
allows cross-ventilating breezes beneath the dwelling to cool the
house and compliment the tropical climate.
The traditional designs in houses (Figure 52). did not in-
clude any nails but rather relied on the tongue and groove con-
struction technique in its post and beam construction of hardwood
connected by wedges. The Malayan architectural style in Malaysia
started as early as pre-15th century till the present. The Malayan
architecture consists mainly of wood carvings as ornamentation
especially in a floral manner. The roofs are also designed to suit
the humid tropical climate is usually high pitched and overhanging
(Chun, Hasan, & Noordin, 2005).
Figure 52: Traditional houses
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Diagram 15 : Malay Architecture in Istana Bandar
Figure 53 : Gable Finial Figure 54 : Sulur Bayung
3.3.4.2 Malay Architecture in Istana Bandar
The Istana Bandar shows a high trait of Malay architecture,
starting from roof design with unique wood carvings that allow
special ventilation in and out of the building. The presence of
open spaces and high ceilings are also another trait of this type of
architecture.
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3.3.5 Chinese Architecture
3.3.5.1 Chinese Architecture in Malaysia
In Malaysia, Chinese architecture is of two main types:
traditional and Baba-Nyonya. Baba-Nyonya are Chinese who
migrated to Malaya and overtime, blended their culture with
the locals. Baba-Nyonya can be found mainly in Penang and
Melaka due to job opportunities at the time (Figure 55). Baba-
Nyonya architectures are mixtures of Malay and Chinese with
minor influence from British Victorian elements. Overall Chinese
decorations are more focused on luck, feng shui and wealth.
Traditional Chinese emphasis more on elements such
as dragons and gods feature to bring them luck with the focused
more on belief and symbolism. One of important elements in
Baba-Nyonya architecture are the open courtyard allows rain into
the house which symbolism wealth coming into their lives (Visit
Malaysia, 2014).
Figure 55 : Baba-Nyonya house in Malacca
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Diagram 16 : Chinese Architecture in Istana Bandar
Figure 56 : The Bumbung Limas influenced from chinese pagoda roof
Figure 57 : The chinese ventilation block
3.3.5.2 Chinese Architecture in Istana Bandar
Istana Bandar shows some traits of Chinese architectural
styles in a few areas of design. It may not be the most prominent
style, but enough of it to be part of one of the main styles through
ornaments, roof style (Figure 56), ventilation blocks (Figure 57)
and courtyard.
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4.0 Architecture Element
Architecture Elements are the unique details and component
parts that, together, form the architecture style of houses, buildings
and structures.The period between late 18th and early 20th centuries
saw the assimilation of colonial style architecture elements into
local Chinese and Malay elements. The architecture elements in
Istana Bandar are generally combined from Anglo-Indian, Straits
Eclectic and Malay.
Generally, a typical colonial-influenced structure is a two-
storey building which expresses the Western and local architectural
traditions modified by the use of local methods of building
construction and building materials (Ahmad, 1994). These includes
raised structures, projecting porches with arches or classical
columns, high ceilings, wide verandas, big openings, plastered
brick walls, hipped roofs, internal courtyards, stables, circular
driveways, ample gardens and servants’ quarters. Such buildings,
like Istana Bandar, usually respond to the local climate by the
introduction of elements such as veranda, front porch, internal
courtyard, ventilation grilles, big openings and high ceilings. The
architectural styles of Istana Bandar, its grandiose scale, decorative
building elements and lavish interiors became the distinctive
characteristic of the social hierarchy of its resident.
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4.1 Elements of the Building
4.1.1 Façade
The façade of Istana Bandar is typically combination of all
architecture style that influenced the building, such as Moorish,
Mughal, Malay, Chinese and Colonial architecture. Although the
façade is not used as the main entrance of Istana Bandar, it depicts
the greatness at the overall palace, this is because the is located in
the most prominient part of Kampung Bandar.
Figure 58 : The facade depicture different architectural styles in Istana Bandar
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4.1.2 Columns
Columns are vertical structural members used to transfer
the load of the weight of the structure above to the other structural
elements below such as roof truss, archivolt and the beams. Istana
Bandar Jugra’s columns are influenced by Greek Architecture.
They are known to look straight from a distance. But up close,
the columns might be tilting, to better support each building. The
Greeks wanted things to be beautiful and strong.
These are the few types of Greek Columns:
1. The Doric style which are mostlt olain in its design
2. The Ionic design is famous for its scrolls ornament.
3. The Corinthian style is quite fancy with leafy elements.
This system was developed according to three styles. Each
order consists of an upright support called acolumn that extends
from the base at the bottom with a shaft in the middle and a capital
at the top (Fig 60) . The capital was often a stylized representation
of natural forms, such as animal horns or plant leaves.
It is divided further into three different parts:
• The architrave (lowest part)
• The frieze (middle)
• The cornice (top)
Figure 60 : Basic element of greek columns.
Figure 59 : Classical orders column
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These elements were further elaborated with decorative
moldings and ornamentation. Each component of a classical order
was sized and arranged according to an overall proportioning sys-
tem based on the height and diameter of the columns.
A Tuscan column resembles a Doric Column from ancient
Greece. Both column styles are simple, without carvings or
ornaments. However, a Tuscan column is more slender than a Doric
column. In conclusion it is stronger than any other types of columns
projecting masculity outlooks.
Tuscan Column is widely used in Istana Bandar with
different height and diameter. Most of the column are made with
concrete and timber columns are mainly used in Balai Rong Seri
(Fig 63) and the walkway .
TIMBER COLUMN
Diagram 17 : Types of Column in Istana Bandar
Figure 63 : Balai Rong Seri
First Floor
Figure 61 : Timber column used in
the inner part of the Balai
Rong Seri
Figure 62 : Concrete column used on the
first floor in Balai Rong Seri
CONCRETE COLUMN
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As shown in Diagram 18 , most of the columns located on the
ground floor are concrete columns.The columns that are supporting
a roof along the walkway of the ground floor is slimmer than other
columns. They are timber columns as they are only supporting a
single story roof.
The columns used in the skylight unit, Kamar Beradu (Fig
64) are simpler than other columns used in the Istana Bandar Jugra.
They do not have any capital or base.
Figure 64 : Columns in Kamar Beradu
Column in the walk ways Column in Kamar Beradu
Diagram 18 : Concrete Column in Istana Bandar
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Columns also can used to articulate the extent and decorate
the walls (Fig 65). It allow walls to be thinner than a usual load
bearing wall. The columns at Istana Bandar manipulate this
advantages by modified the capital of column with malay ornament.
The arch on the top of column also help to distribute the weight of
the ceiling from the first floor to both of the columns (Fig 66).
Figure 66 : Arches on the top of column distribute the load.
Figure 65 : Pilaster
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4.1.3 Windows
Based on the type of window mechanism, there is only one
type of window in Istana Bandar which is the casement window.
Casement window has two swing panels to create opening.
This window is made from timber with slender steel bars behind the
shutters to provide security for the building.
There are 18 different types of double shutter casement
windows in Istana Bandar. It can be differentiate by the type of
vents designs on top of the windows, ornaments and bracket
designs of the panels itself. Based on the transom design, it can be
differentiate in 5 types of windows, which is:
a. Double shutter casement window
b. Double Shutter Casement window with Louver
c. Double Shutter Casement Window with Lattice.
d. Double Shutter Casement window with pointed trefoil fixed
glass
e. Double Shutter Casement window with glass
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a. Double shutter casement window
This normal casement window is differentiated by the panel
and ornament details. Casement window can provide 100% opening.
The ornament details that surround the window help to enhance
different architecture style, while the panel details give another
advantage to the window. For example, the fix glass allow sunlight
to penetrate into the space while the windows with louvered panel
provided ventilation and at the same time minimizing the heat from
the outside.
Window15
This window type has a simple Western influenced decoration
(Fig 67). The window uses trellis for security reason. This allows
the user to fully open the window and still feel safe. When closed,
the window completely shuts off sunlight and ventilation.
Ground Floor
First Floor
Diagram 18 : W5 location plan
Figure 67 : W5
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Window 8
Located on the first floor, the window design is a mixture of Malay
with the use of louver, and Mogul with the imitation of the onion
dome with minarets (Fig 69). This design provides ventilation
through the adjustable louvers even when the window is closed.
Figure 69 : W8
Diagram 20 : W8 location plan
First Floor
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W13
This window has a simple western window panel. It is also
decorated with a top and bottom cornice originated from western
influence, georgian style (Fig 71).
Figure 70 : W13
Diagram 21 : W13 location plan
Ground Floor
Figure 71 : Georgian style windows
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W15
AsimpleWestern window type with no use of decorative elements.
It is fitted with security bars for protection purposes (Fig 73.).
Figure 72 : Exterior of W15
Diagram 22 : W15 location plan
Ground Floor
Figure 73 : Interior of W15
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b. Double Shutter Casement window with Louver
The louvered vent provides maximum air ventilation and at
the same time it can prevent the rain water and the penetration of
natural light. There are two types of windows with louvered vent
in Istana Bandar, casement window with lattice panel and casement
window with normal panel.
Window 11
This is a western influence double casement window with simple
panel and Malay louver head (Fig 74). There is no apparent
decorative element that can be seen.
Ground Floor
Diagram 23 : W11 location plan
Figure 74 : W11
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Window 17
This is a Western style casement window with Malay louvered
panels and head which provides excellent ventilation. It is also
decorated with Western style cornice (Fig 75). This window type
surrounds the main balai menghadap.
Diagram 24 : W17 location plan
Figure 75 : W17
First Floor
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Window 18
This is a double casement window with Moorish influenced lattice
design on the window panel and louvered head for ventilation
(Fig 76) . It seems as if it is resting on a balustrade decoration
below it.
Diagram 25 : W18 location plan
Figure 76 : W18
First Floor
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c. Double Shutter Casement Window with Lattice
The lattice on top the window provides air ventilation no
matter the shutter is closed or opened. Unfortunately, it does not
have the function like the louvered vent to keep out of the rainwater.
The panel on the casement window also varies in the design and
size.
Window 10
This window type has a Western influenced window panel and
Morish design ventilation opening. The ornaments above and
below the window has a Western influence.
Diagram 26 : W10 location plan
Figure 77 : W10
Ground Floor
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Window 16
This is a simple window panel with a Moorish wooden lattice head
(Fig 78). It has a unique ornament decoration on 4 corners of the
window panel.
Diagram 27 : W16 location plan
Figure 78 : W16
Ground Floor
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d. Double Shutter Casement window with pointed trefoil fixed
glass (Window 9)
The pointed trefoil window highlights the Mogul architecture
style. Its function is to allow the natural light to penetrate into
the room and illuminate the interior space and in the same time
reduce the heat and protection to the rain. This types of windows
can be found in the private place, the royal bedroom. Diagram 28 : W9 location plan
First Floor
Figure 79 : W9
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e. Double Shutter Casement window with glass
The fixed windows allows naural light to penetrate through
the space and illuminate the interior space. At the same time, it
prevents the interior environment from heat and rain. The ornament
on the wall is added to surround the window which enhance western
influence on the building.
Window 1
This window’s ornament is a combination of Western and Mogul
elements (Fig 80); Mogul being the minaret while the rest feature is
Western. The double shutter casement window and its glass head is
of western influence.
Diagram 29 : W1 location plan
First Floor
Figure 80 : W1
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Window 2
This window type is wider than the rest of the windows in Istana
Bandar (Fig 81). It has Western window panels with glass lattice
head. The ornament has a mixture of Western architraves with an
arch flanked by two Mogul minarets.
Diagram 30 : W2 location plan
Ground Floor
Figure 81 : W2
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Window 3
This casement window has glass lattice panel influenced from
both Moorish and Western influence. The ornament has a mixture
of Mogul and Western elements; the Mogul element being the
minaret ornament. Its head has three small sized glass panel
which is of Western influence.
Diagram 31 : W2 location plan
Ground Floor
Figure 82 : W2
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Window 4
This is a double shutter casement window which has a Western
influence along with its ornaments. Its head, also Western, has
three small sized glass panel, allowing sufficient light into the
room.
Diagram 32 : W4 location plan
Ground Floor
Figure 83 : W4
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Window 6
This Western type window has single piece glass head above
its panel. The ornaments are Western-based with two Moorish
minaret on the top.
Diagram 33 : W6 location plan
First Floor
Figure 84 : W6
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4.1.4 Door
There are more than 40 doors in Istana Bandar with different
size and location. Basically there are two types of door based on the
mechanism; a single hinged door and double hinged door.
4.1.4.1 Single hinged door
Single hinge door has only one swing panel to create
opening. In Istana Bandar, this door is made from timber with
Chinese Block ornament on the top to provide ventilation when the
door closes. This types of door is used as opening for toilet (Fig 85).
Diagram 34 : D16 location plan
Ground Floor
Figure 85 : D16
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2. Double Hinged Door
Double Hinged door is made up of two swing doors with
its hinges on both side of the door frames. These types of doors are
also made from timber with a single rebated jamb. A single rebated
jamb caused the door in Istana Bandar to be opened only in one
direction, inward or outward.
There are 25 types of double hinged doors in Istana Bandar
with different windows types on the top of door, total number of
panels or the size of the door leaf itself.
The doors are categorized into a few category below:
a. Double Hinged Doors
b. Double Hinged Doors with 6 architrave
c. Double Hinged Doors with fan light window
d. Double hinged door with jalousie windows
e. Double hinged door with fixed windows
f. Double Hinged door with pointed trefoil arch
g. Arched top braced door
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a. Double Hinged Doors
Door 7
This simple Georgian architecture style door characterized by the
panels placed between two prominent columns. The door leads to
a small room which reflects its simple design.
Diagram 35 : D7 location plan
Ground Floor
Figure 86 : D7
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Door 18
This double hinged door is located in the ground floor of Balai
Rong Seri. The door panels have simple carving expressing the
simplicity of the room that it leads to. The lintel extends out links
to the ground in a pilaster type formation
Diagram 36 : D18 location plan
Ground Floor
Figure 87 : D18
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b. Double Hinged Doors with 6 architrave
There are various types of normal double hinged doors in
Istana Bandar that is differentiated by the total number of panel, size
and the architrave detail. Most of the door with plain architrave can
be found all around Istana Bandar, while the decorative architrave
door is only used in the main façade.
Door 14
This door is slightly special as there is a ventilation window above
the door to improve ventilation in the space. It is located inside the
room of the Kamar Beradu.
Diagram 37 : D14 location plan
Ground Floor
Figure 88 : D14
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Door 26
This Georgian style door has varying raised panels and layered
trim board with decorative molding. The size is also larger than
most doors that can be found in Istana Bandar because it is used
as the main entrance from the portico into the balai menghadap.
Diagram 38 : D7 location plan
First Floor
Figure 89 : D7
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Door 8
This door is under the Georgian architecture style characterized
by the placement of panels between two columns capped with a
decorative crown supported by decorative pilasters
First Floor
Diagram 39 : D8 location plan
Figure 90 : D8
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Door 15
This simple Western style double hinged door is decorated with
plain architrave and no prominent features. This door provides a
complete privacy as no degree of transparency is seen.
Ground Floor
Diagram 40 : D15 location plan
Figure 91: D15
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Door 23
Another door that is influenced by the Georgian style. It is located
at the ground floor below the corridor of balai rong seri.
Ground Floor
Diagram 41 : D23 location plan
Figure 92 : D23
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Door 25
This door leads to a room in the Balai Rong Seri. The design shuts
off ventilation which provides privacy for the user. This space is a
public space but the privacy of the room can be improved as long
as the doors are closed.
First Floor
Diagram 42 : D25 location plan
Figure 93 : D25
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c. Double Hinged Doors with fan light window
This type of door can be found mostly in semi-public
space such as Balai Mengadap Diraja and pejabat. The fan light
windows is to highlight the Georgian architecture style. In addition,
this design allows sunlight to diffuse into the room and light up the
interior space.
Door 10
There are 3 carved design on each panel all carved at rectangular
shapes. This door design is widely used in Balai Mengadap
First Floor
Diagram 43 : D10 location plan
Figure 94 : D10