HERITAGE CONSERVATION IN MALAYSIAN CITIES: REALITIES AND ISSUES TOWARDS ESTABLISHING FUTURE LEGISLATION

Abstract

Establishing a proper legal framework is essential for conserving traditional urban built environment. Nowadays in Malaysia, social concern about Malaysia's urban heritage conservation is growing, despite accelerated economic growth. Current World Heritage nominations are particularly important for promote her social and cultural integrity within global community. This study discusses and analyzes Malaysian heritage conservation legislation as well as the socio-political conditions in Malaysia. Firstly, this study re-examines the current conservation-related legal framework. And secondly, current issues are discussed and analyzed through existing press statements, legal statistics and interviews; (1) Factors affecting the 'selection' of the artifact or area within the legal framework for conservation-national, ethnic, urban or family, (2) The sustainability and balance between development and conservation-especially expectations from the public in general, (3) Public participation under Malaysia's multi-cultural and 'soft authoritarian' political climate, from sole tenants to NGOs. These social and political concerns are unavoidable in terms of proposed federal legislation as well as the World Heritage Listing. Heritage conservation should be reflected social background to emphasize the Malaysian multicultural social setting.