Istana NegaraARC1215 - Methods of Documentation and Measured Drawing

Abstract

This report documents the overall information and data obtained from Measured Drawings activity on the site of Istana Negara (Lama). The Istana

Negara was once the home of the Malaysian Royal Family from the 1957 to 2011. Today it stands as a museum, exhibiting a glimpse of the past; the

importance of the royalty, and their lives in the palace itself. In the process of measuring the palace for conservation purposes, the current condition of

palace as well as the architectural development has been analyzed and recorded. The colonization of Malaysia by the British has clearly in uenced the

style in which interior of the Istana Negara has been designed. As an illustration of wealth and prosperity, Istana Negara demonstrates Malaysias desire

to achieve the lifestyle of the British.

i

ii

Acknowledgements

Team Istana Negara would like to formally recognize and thank all those who have provided us with guidance and knowledge to produce this report. We

extend our gratitude to everyone who has kindly helped us, without whom this project could not have been possible. These people include:

Hayati Binti Mohamad Zawawi, the Director of the Istana Negara Museum, for giving us permission to measure and document the whole of the Istana

Negara, allowing us to photograph the interior of the palace, and providing an interview regarding the history of Istana Negara;

The staff at Istana Negara Museum, for being so accommodating and providing us with the oor plans and other information they had;

Nurul Alia Ahamad and Norhayati Ramli, for guiding and encouraging us through the entirety of this project.

iii

Declaration of Submission

We, the Team Istana Negara, in Methods of Documentation and Measured Drawing, hereby certify all the information and content of this report are

original, except when appropriately referenced to other sources, and that written permission has been granted by any existing copyright holders. We

af rm that this is a record of our work carried out during the eld trip from January 19th 23rd, 2015 in Istana Negara, Jalan Istana.

Lastly, we understand that this declaration covers all works submitted for the nal assessment.

Pua Kee Hui

Leader of Team Istana

Chin Jovi

Leader of Team Istana

Table of ContentsAbstract

Acknowledgements

Declaration of Submission

Table of Contents

List of Figures

Chapter 1: Introduction

Objectives and Aim

Scope

Limitations

Methods of Measurement

Equipment Used

Literature Review

Signi cance of Study

Chapter 2: Historical Background

History of Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur

History of the Royalty in Malaysia

History of the Istana

History of Istana Negara Lama

Ownership

Renovations

Chapter 3: Architectural Development

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ii

iii

iv

vi

1

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.6

1.7

2

2.1

2.2

2.3

2.4

2.5.1

2.5.2

3

iv

Site Context

Hardscape

Softscape

External Structures

Architectural In uences

Palladian Style

British Colonial Style

Design Concept

Form

Exterior

Interior

Space Planning

Exterior

Interior

Cultural Aspects and Elements

Chapter 4: Construction Details

Staircases

Dome

Arch

Chapter 5: Materials

Structural Materials

Finishing

Chapter 6: Ornamentation and Details

3.1

3.1.1

3.1.2

3.1.3

3.2

3.2.1

3.2.2

3.3

3.3.1

3.3.2

3.3.3

3.4

3.4.1

3.4.2

3.5

4

4.1

4.2

4.3

5

5.1

5.2

6

vColumns and Pilasters

Doors

Windows

Ceiling

Lighting

Other Ornamentation

Chapter 7: Comparison with Istana Nega-

ra, Jalan Duta

Design Concept

Details

Scale

Function

Chapter 8: Conclusion

Future of Istana Negara Lama

Conclusion

References

Appendix

Letter from the National Archive

Interview Transcript

Glossary

Photobook

3D Computer Modelling

F Scaled Drawings

6.1

6.2

6.3

6.4

6.5

6.6

7

7.1

7.2

7.3

7.4

8

8.1

8.2

A

B

C

D

E

vi

List of FiguresA vintage telephone found in the Queens of ce. (Tee,

2015)

Photograph of a set table in one of the dining rooms.

(Woo, 2015)

A member of Team Istana, Adrian Yap, using a piece

of equipment to measure the building. (All Tools Di-

rect, 2015)

Image of Bosch DLE 50 Professional Digital Laser

Distance Meter. (Caul eld Industrial, 2015)

Example of a standard measuring tape.

One of the team members, Adrian Yap, using the

Geometric Quadrant Plumb Bob. (Woo, 2015)

View of royal dishes and cutlery, laid out for a meal.

(Tee, 2015)

Independence ceremony in Merdeka Stadium. Au-

gust 31st , 1957. (Malaysia Independence Day)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Pertama (Portal Rasmi Perli-

men Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kedua (Portal Rasmi Perli-

men Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Ketiga (Portal Rasmi Perli-

Figure 1.1

Figure 1.2

Figure 1.3

Figure 1.4

Figure 1.5

Figure 1.6

Figure 1.7

Figure 2.1

Figure 2.2

Figure 2.3

Figure 2.4

men Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Keempat (Portal Rasmi Per-

limen Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kelima (Portal Rasmi Perli-

men Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Keenam (Portal Rasmi Perli-

men Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Ketujuh (Portal Rasmi Perli-

men Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kelapan (Portal Rasmi Perli-

men Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kesembilan (Portal Rasmi

Perlimen Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kesepuluh(Portal Rasmi Per-

limen Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kesebelas (Portal Rasmi Per-

limen Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kedua Belas (Portal Rasmi

Perlimen Malaysia)

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Ketiga Belas (Portal Rasmi

Perlimen Malaysia)

Malacca Sultanate Palace, 1459. (Malacca Attrac-

tions)

Istana Balai Besar, 1840. (Kelantan Attractions)

The Astana, 1870. (Asia Explores)

Istana Jugra, 1875. (Asia Explores)

Figure 2.5

Figure 2.6

Figure 2.7

Figure 2.8

Figure 2.9

Figure 2.10

Figure 2.11

Figure 2.12

Figure 2.13

Figure 2.14

Figure 2.15

Figure 2.16

Figure 2.17

Figure 2.18

vii

Istana Jahar, 1887. (Asia Explores)

Istana Sri Menanti, 1980. (Asia Explores)

Istana Kenangan, 1926. (Arkib Government)

Old Istana Negara, 1982. (Woo, 2015)

Istana Badariah, 1940. (Arkib Government)

Istana Darul Ehsan, 2000. (Arkib Government)

Istana Anak Bukit, 2007. (Malaysian Explorer)

Istana Negara Baru, 2011. (Malaysian Explorer)

Mr. Chan Wings Potrait (Malaysian Explorer)

Istana Negara before the rst renovations in 1940.

(Choong)

Istana Negara in 1956.( Choong)

Current physical state of Istana Negara. (Woo, 2015)

The then Prime Minister of Malaysia overlooking the

renovation works. (Choong)

The renovation and additional site plan of Old Istana

Negara. (Jabatan Penerangan, 1976)

The renovation and additional detailing plan of Old

Istana Negara of the main gate in front. (Jabatan Pen-

erangan, 1976)

Timeline of Chan Wing and the Istana Negara.

The pavement in front. (Woo, 2015)

The pavement that connects the Royal Musuem Gal-

lery to the Balairun Seri Gallery. (Woo, 2015)

View of the pavement looking down to the main en-

Figure 2.19

Figure 2.20

Figure 2.21

Figure 2.22

Figure 2.23

Figure 2.24

Figure 2.25

Figure 2.26

Figure 2.27

Figure 2.28

Figure 2.29

Figure 2.30

Figure 2.31

Figure 2.32

Figure 2.33

Figure 2.34

Figure 3.1

Figure 3.2

Figure 3.3

trance. (Woo, 2015)

Example of tiled pavements used in the royal garden.

(Woo, 2015)

Photograph of a planter box outside the entrance of

the Istana Negara building. (Woo, 2015)

Photograph of a curb on the tiled pavement on the

exterior. (Woo, 2015)

Fountain directly outside the entrance to the Istana

Negara building. (Woo, 2015)

Fountain in the lake of the royal gardens. (Woo, 2015)

Retaining walls are used to ensure the soil does not

move and cause damage. (Woo, 2015)

Barricades, or gates surrounding the Istana Negara as

a type of security. (Woo, 2015)

The white bridge in the garden to cross the pond.

(Woo, 2015)

Drainage near the boundaries of the site. (Woo, 2015)

View of the royal garden, with the lake and white

bridge. (Tee, 2015)

The open eld in front of the Istana Negara structure.

(Woo, 2015)

The Balairung Seri, or the Throne Hall Gallery. (Woo,

2015)

The management of ce structure. (Woo, 2015)

Cimborium in the garden. (Woo, 2015)

Cimborium near the pool. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.4

Figure 3.5

Figure 3.6

Figure 3.7

Figure 3.8

Figure 3.9

Figure 3.10

Figure 3.11

Figure 3.12

Figure 3.13

Figure 3.14

Figure 3.15

Figure 3.16

Figure 3.17

Figure 3.18

viii

Photo of the pyramidal greehouse. (Woo, 2015)

The swimming pool next to the royal garden. (Te,

2015)

The carpark outside the management of ce. (Woo,

2015)

The main entrance for visitiors. (Woo, 2015)

The indoor badminton courts. (Woo, 2015)

Exterior view of the badminton courts. (Woo, 2015)

Outdoor futsal eld or tennis courts. (Woo, 2015)

Top view of one of the fountains outside the entrance.

(Tee, 2015)

Capital of the column at the entrance of the ministers

room on the Ground Floor. (Woo, 2015)

Pediment above two Corinthian columns at the en-

trance of the ministers room on the Ground Floor.

(Woo, 2015)

Diagram showing the symmetry in the oor plan.

(Woo, 2015)

Door and window arrangement on the ground oor.

(Woo, 2015)

One of the doors from the exterior to the interior.

(Woo, 2015)

View of the main entrance on the south side. (Woo,

2015)

Photo of the gift shop, which exhibits campaign fur-

niture, and lightweight and eclectic fabrics. (Woo,

Figure 3.19

Figure 3.20

Figure 3.21

Figure 3.22

Figure 3.23

Figure 3.24

Figure 3.25

Figure 3.26

Figure 3.27

Figure 3.28

Figure 3.29

Figure 3.30

Figure 3.31

Figure 3.32

Figure 3.33

2015)

The curtain and fabric of the chair demonstrates light-

weight and electric fabric. (Woo, 2015)

Example of topical inspired furnishings. (Woo, 2015)

Her majestys of ce demonstrates the use of light and

airy colours. (Woo, 2015)

The living room suite for one of the bedrooms shows

the use of eclectic furniture. (Woo, 2015)

This old decorated telephone shows the use of eclec-

tic furniture. (Woo, 2015)

Image of a lizard on the Istana Negara grounds. (Tee,

2015)

Image of the horses that were once used to wander

around the grounds of Istana Negara. (Woo, 2015)

Cropped view of the center of the facade of Istana

Negara shows a detailed symmetry of the facade.

(Woo, 2015)

View of the Istana Negaras Exterior. (Tee, 2015)

Ground oor and rst oor plans of the Istana Neg-

ara.

Map of the Royal Museum, otherwise known as Ista-

na Negara on Jalan Istana.

Exterior space planning is shown in the site plan.

The small audience hall is the rst room visitors see.

(Woo, 2015)

One of the dining rooms in the royal palace. (Woo,

Figure 3.34

Figure 3.35

Figure 3.36

Figure 3.37

Figure 3.38

Figure 3.39

Figure 3.4

Figure 3.41

Figure 3.42

Figure 3.43

Figure 3.44

Figure 3.45

Figure 3.46

Figure 3.47

ix

2015)

Ministers room. (Tee, 2015)

Cinema room. (Ellayah, 2015)

His Majestys of ce on the rst oor. (Tee, 2015)

The throne room on the rst oor. (Tee, 2015)

The guest room is located amongst the other bed-

rooms on the rst oor. (Tee, 2015)

The reading room across Her Majestys of ce. (Woo,

2015)

Her Majestys of ce. (Ellayah, 2015)

Small audience hall. (Ellayah, 2015)

State acting rulers bedroom. (Tee, 2015)

His Majestys restroom. (Tee, 2015)

Her Majestys powder room. (Tee, 2015)

The ambassadors room on the ground oor. (Woo,

2015)

The royal bedroom in the new wing. (Woo, 2015)

The royal dental room. (Woo, 2015)

One of the domes on the top of the Istana Negara.

(Tee, 2015)

The main gate of the Istana Negara utilized the bunga

raya motifs. (Woo, 2015)

One of two of the main staircases in the Istana Nega-

ra. (Woo, 2015)

Three step staircases are used to further distinguish

Figure 3.48

Figure 3.49

Figure 3.50

Figure 3.51

Figure 3.52

Figure 3.53

Figure 3.54

Figure 3.55

Figure 3.56

Figure 3.57

Figure 3.58

Figure 3.59

Figure 3.60

Figure 3.61

Figure 3.62

Figure 3.63

Figure 4.1

Figure 4.2

rooms. These are the steps to His Majestys Of ce.

(Woo, 2015)

Staircase handrail at His Majestys Of ce. (Woo,

2015)

View of one of the two main domes on top of the Ista-

na Negara. (Tee, 2015)

View of the East dome from the roof. (Tee, 2015)

Close-up view of the crown and symbol of Malaysia

on top of the dome. (Tee, 2015)

View of an arched entrance from the exterior of the

building. (Ellayah, 2015)

Concrete formwork seen throughout Istana Negara.

(Tee, 2015)

Masonry wall which has been left as it is at the bad-

minton court. (Woo, 2015)

Existing timber structures with oral motifs. (Woo,

2015)

The exterior of Istana Negara painted beautifully.

(Woo, 2015)

Plaster walls and ceilings. (Woo, 2015)

The full column at the ministers room. (Woo, 2015)

View of the Greek styled Corinthian columns capi-

tal. (Woo, 2015)

Thin double doors in one of the bedrooms. (Woo,

Figure 4.3

Figure 4.4

Figure 4.5

Figure 4.6

Figure 4.7

Figure 5.1

Figure 5.2

Figure 5.3

Figure 5.4

Figure 5.5

Figure 6.1

Figure 6.2

Figure 6.3

x2015)

Modern glass double doors at the main entrance. (El-

layah, 2015)

Tall window in the dining room. (Woo, 2015)

One of the windows shown from the interior. (Woo,

2015)

View of the ceiling decoration around the chandelier.

(Woo, 2015)

Ceiling decoration at the corner. (Woo, 2015)

One of the chandeliers in the interior of the palace.

(Woo, 2015)

Chandelier in the room in front of the ministers

room. (Woo, 2015)

Carpet design shows oral patterns. (Ellayah, 2015)

Aerial view of the new Istana Negara on Jalan Duta.

(placeandsee.com, 2015)

The guests room in the old Istana Negara. (Ellayah,

2015)

The new Istana Negaras domes. (The Star, 2015)

New Agong Installation Ceremony. (Kosmo)

Photograph of one of the bedrooms in the royal pal-

ace. (Tee, 2015)

View of the throne room from the doorway. (Tee,

2015)

Figure 6.4

Figure 6.5

Figure 6.6

Figure 6.7

Figure 6.8

Figure 6.9

Figure 6.10

Figure 6.11

Figure 7.1

Figure 7.2

Figure 7.3

Figure 7.4

Figure 8.1

Figure 8.2

1Chapter OneINTRODUCTION

2The objective of this study is to obtain accurate measurements that

re ect of the current state of Istana Negara.

Team Istana Negara is required to produce oor plans, sections,

elevations and site plan. These drawings are scale drawings done

according to the existing heritage building on site. Also included is a

scaled model of the Istana Negara.

Team Istana is also required to produce a research paper to highlight

the history and design concept of the structure. Photographs that

exhibit the interior and the furniture of in the Istana Negara. (See

Figure 1.1)

The aim of this study is to become a credible source of information

regarding Istana Negara for both academic and conservational pur-

poses.

1.1 Objectives and Aim

Figure 1.1. A vintage telephone found in the Queens of ce. (Yap, 2015)

3The study is focused on the Istana Negara on Jalan Istana in Kuala

Lumpur. From the years 1957 to 2011, it served as the royal palace,

and today it is a museum open to the public. As the royal palace, it has

great cultural and historical value, for both the interior and exterior.

(See Figure 1.2)

This study not only documents the current state of Istana Negara, but

also documents the history of the usage of the structure, and how it

has changed over the years.

Also included is a comparison with the new Istana Negara on Jalan

Duta, where the royal family has been residing since 2011, after mov-

ing out of the Istana Negara on Jalan Istana, to show the changes and

development in architectural style.

1.2 Scope

Figure 1.2. Photograph of a set table in one of the dining rooms. (Tee, 2015)

The Istana Negara Lama is now open to the public, and has restricted

access to the rooms therefore allowing the public to only view the

rooms through the corridors. Thankfully we were allowed to access

the rooms that were otherwise off-limits to visitors. However, the Di-

rector of Istana Negara Museum placed a few restrictions our access

of the building. There were also some issues regarding usage of the

furniture inside the Istana Negara.

Due to the fact that the Istana Negara is currently open to the public,

the team still had to take into consideration the visitors and how they

viewed the palace, as well as how our presence would affect their

viewing.

Photographs and documentation of the structure is scarce from Chan

Wings time, despite the fact that in 1928, his mansion (now known

as Istana Negara) was the largest and most grand house in the whole

of Malaya. Documenting the building has focused more signi cantly

on the usage (royal events and ceremonies) rather than the actual ar-

chitecture of the structure. The original architecture rm, Swann and

1.3 LimitationsMaclaren has declined to share with us their original design of Chan

Wings mansion.

The Istana Negara has undergone several renovations since it was

rst completed in 1928. However, full documentation of the details of

the renovations are not accessible by the public.

Documentation of the site including the garden, eld, pool and so on,

is also very limited.

4

Several different methods were used to collect the data for complet-

ing the research and documentation of the Istana Negara. The team

is composed of a total of 39 students, who were then divided into

the following sub-groups: elevations group, oor plans group, sec-

tions group and site plan group (though the site plan group was also

charged with the responsibility of completing the report and video).

Each group operated under a sub-group leader who oversaw the prog-

ress of work, as well as collaborated with other groups to con rm the

accuracy of the measurements.

Measuring Methods

Although there are several different methods of measuring a whole

building, the team primarily utilized the use of a measuring tape, and

secondarily using a digital laser measuring device (see Figure 1.3).

The measuring tape was used mostly for smaller measurements, such

as oor area, walls, columns, details, and areas that are easily accessi-

ble. For further lengths, such as the ceiling height and so on, the team

would use the laser measuring device.

1.4 Methods ofMeasurement

5

Figure 1.3. A member of Team Istana, Adrian Yap, using a piece of equipment to measure the building. (Woo, 2015)

Research Methods

To document the historical, the cultural, and architectural aspect of

the Istana Negara on Jalan Istana, interviews were conducted with

both the Director of Istana Negara Museum as well as one of the

gardeners who has worked in the Museum for twenty years. The team

has also visited the National Library and the National Archive in Kua-

la Lumpur to search for information and photographs regarding the

Istana Negara. A lot of information has been obtained from online

books, journals, and websites as well.

Model-making Methods

Due to a combination between a tight time restraint and decorative

facade of our structure, Team Istana Negara made the decision to take

a risk and utilize the method of laser cutting. In order to make it a re-

ality, however, Team Istana Negara had to learn how to use software

and separate the design so that the cuttings could be done on isolated

wood panels. After the laser cutting was complete, Team Istana Neg-

ara had to carefully stick the pieces together to complete the model.

To obtain data on the faade too high and therefore inaccessible, the

team hired a crane to access the higher areas. This was more applica-

ble towards the elevation team, who had to obtain measurements from

areas too high up to access.

As an old building, some of the walls and such may not be levelled

correctly, or some of the corners may not be exactly 90 degrees, or

so on. To measure this, a set square was used to measure the angles

between the joining walls.

Measuring the details and ornamentation was tedious and incredibly

time consuming. Considering the short time period in which we were

given to obtain all the data, it was deemed more ef cient to take a

photo of the detailing, along with documenting the main measure-

ments of the detail or ornament, and later inserting it into AutoCAD,

and scaling the photograph with the main measurements then.

Production of Drawings

The measurements that were obtained on-site were directly drafted

onto AutoCAD both on-site and off-site. After returning from the site,

members of the team returned to campus (Taylors University, Lake-

side Campus) to further discuss and draft the measured drawings on

AutoCAD. After the measurements have been documented in Auto-

CAD, the drawings are given the nal touches, especially in terms of

standardizing the line weights and such between all the sub-groups

for the nal submission.

6

Both measuring the building and documenting the measurements re-

quires some equipment to obtain data.

DLE 50 Professional Digital Laser Distance Meter

The DLE 50 Professional Digital Laser Distance Meter from Bosch

was used to conduct the measurements of some of the less accessible

distances. As an expensive piece of equipment, this digital laser mea-

suring device was used with utmost care. For example, to measure the

height of the ceiling from the oor in a room at one point, the device is

placed on the oor, with the laser transmitter facing the ceiling. After

correcting the settings, the measurement of the distance between the

oor and ceiling will appear digitally on the screen. (See Figure 1.4)

Standard Measuring Tape

This was the primary piece of equipment used in the measurement

of the building. It is a common instrument that can be bought at any

hardware store. For longer distances, the cloth measuring tape was

used. (See Figure 1.5)

1.5 Equipment Used

7

Figure 1.5 Example of a standard measuring tape. (Caul eld Indus-trial, 2015)

Figure 1.4 Image of Bosch DLE 50 Professional Digital Laser Dis-tance Meter. (All Tools Direct, 2015)

8Adjustable Set Square

These were used to measure the angles of parts of the building that

may not have been exactly straight. For example, if the connection

between two joining walls is not exactly 90 degrees, the set square

would have been used to measure the difference.

Geometric Quadrant Plumb Bob

This piece of equipment is used to measure the levels of the building.

It is a quarter of a circle, with 90 degrees. It can be used to measure

the angles of acute corners, as well as levelling. The plumb bob is

hung from above to observe the levels. The usage is shown in Figure

1.6.

Crane

The team also hired a crane to secure access to higher areas on the

building that are not accessible by a ladder. To make sure the team

was utilizing the crane correctly and safely, the owner of the crane

was present.

Ladder

There were a few ladders on-site, brought personally by different

members of the team. The ladders are approximately 5 feet in height,

and allowed access to the ceilings and higher areas. Anything higher

would require the crane. Unlike the crane, the ladder could be used

for the interior. There was always one person to hold the ladder se-

curely for safety purposes.

Figure 1.6. One of the team members, Adrian Yap, using the Geo-metric Quadrant Plumb Bob. (Woo, 2015)

Stationery

To record the measurements, paper, pens, pencils, erasers and rulers

were used. This allowed for sketching and visual documentation of

the items and spaces that were being documented.

DSLR Cameras

Several team members visually documented the spaces, the details,

the faade, the furniture and the genius loci and so on with Profes-

sional Digital Single Lens Re ex cameras.

Laptops and AutoCAD

The documented measurements were inserted into AutoCAD draw-

ings for the nal submission. In AutoCAD, the line weights are edited

and standardized between all the sub-groups. Of course, AutoCAD is

a piece of software that is only accessible through a laptop.

9

The Istana Negara on Jalan Istana has become an important part of

the history of Malaysia. As an example of the growing wealth and a

foreshadowing of the future development of Kuala Lumpur, it was

built in 1928 as a mansion of a Chinese man named Chan Wing for

his extensive family.

From 1941 to 1943, it was occupied by the Japanese military. By

then, Chan Wing had ed Malaya. Afterward, it was the home of the

royal family until 2011.

This structure has always been the home of powerful people, and has

witnessed the great development of Malaya and later on, Malaysia.

The literature review emphasizes the importance of knowledge on

history and theory.

The key gure of this study is the most recent ownership of this build-

ing and its current state as a museum. In addition, the study of the

spaces in this building, the culture aspects, and the site context are

selected for the writings. Books, articles, journals and other physical

1.6 Literature Reviewpublications provide information on the historical background of Ma-

laya and Malaysia, more speci cally, Kuala Lumpur through these

times. They also provide information on the architecture style during

the time. Information was mainly obtained from online material, the

National Archive and the National Library.

10

The purpose of this project is to emphasize the importance of the Ista-

na Negara on Jalan Istana in the history of Malaysia. The palace are

witnessed the growth and development of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

from 1928 to the present. As the house of powerful people at different

times, this mansion has become an integral part of the history of Ma-

laysia as it is today.

This study aims to analyze further the culture, politics and economics

that surround the palace itself, as well as how it characterizes Malay-

sia through the times. Figure 1.7 exhibits the extravagant culture and

lifestyle of the royal family.

By sketching, drawing, measuring and documenting the building on-

site enabled the students to develop more appreciation towards both

the palace itself as well as Malaysias history.

1.6 Significance of Study

Figure 1.7 View of royal dishes and cutlery, laid out for a meal. (Tee, 2015)

11

12

Chapter TwoHISTORICAL BACKGROUND

During the late 18th and 19th centuries, Great Britain established

colonies and protested in the area of current Malaysia; these were

occupied by Japan from 1942 to 1945. In 1948, the British-ruled ter-

ritories on the Malay Peninsula formed the Federation of Malaya,

which became independent in 1957. Malaysia was formed in 1963

when the former British colonies of Singapore and the East Malay-

sian states of Sabah and Sarawak, located on the northern coast of

Borneo, joined the Federation (see Figure 2.1). The rst several years

of the countrys history were dis gured by several events, such as the

Communist insurgency, Indonesian confrontation with Malaysia, the

Philippine claims to Sabah, and Singapores secession from the Fed-

eration in 1965. During the 22-year term of Prime Minister Mahathir

bin Mohamad (1981-2003), Malaysia was successful in diversifying

its economy from dependence on exports of raw materials to expan-

sion in manufacturing, services, and tourism.

2.1 History of Malaysia and

Kuala Lumpur

Figure 2.1 Malaysias Independence day ceremony in Merdeka Sta-dium, August 31st 1957.

13

Independence to the Present: 1957- Now

Malayas independence brought about new decisions that needed to

be made, the rst of which being to ascertain which territories to in-

clude in the new state. Malaysia was a term brought up in 1961,

when the appointed Tunku at the time persuaded Singapore, Sabah

and Sarawak to combine with Malaya in a federal union. This did not

go over well with the Indonesian president Sukharno, who feared the

impact of such a union on his plans to expand the Indonesian borders.

He later initiated several unsuccessful attacks against Malaysia.

As Malaysia is comprised of a very diverse mix of people, another

problem the country faced post-independence was determining the

national identity. Although the majority of the population was Malay

and as such they were given permanent positions in government and

other perks, the Chinese were dominant in business and trade. Since

most Malaysians were not doing well economically, the government

imposed some quotas that were designed to help the Malays improve

their chances economically. The Chinese didnt like this and formed

a political party that won a number of seats in the following elections

in 1969. The Malays protested this political win by erupting into riots

throughout Kuala Lumpur, which for the next couple of years resulted

in placing Malaysia in a state of turmoil.

Malaysia has made tremendous strides in their growth and wealth.

Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohammed, who has led Malaysia since

1981, is felt to be responsible for a majority of Malaysias success.

History of Kuala Lumpur

In the 19th century, the area where KL now lies was an important

settlement for the tin-industry. Because of the important work of Yap

Ah Loy, the city grew from a settlement to an eventual city. The end

of the 19th century was harsh on Kuala Lumpur, as at this time the

city was tormented by disasters and adversity. Diseases, epidemics,

res and oods plagued the city with high consistancy. During this

period people began to build stone houses instead of wooden houses.

This was also the period in which the rst railroads was constructed.

Some people believe that it was not Yap Ah Loy, but Raja Abdullah,

who founded Kuala Lumpur, since Raja Abdullah had allegedly sent

miners to look for tin in the region years before Yap Ah Loy arrived

in the area now called Kuala Lumpur.

14

In August 1957, having rejected the suggested title of Yang di-Pertuan

Besar in favour of Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Council of Rulers met

to elect the rst occupant of the throne. By seniority, the 84-year-old

major general Sultan Ibrahim, Sultan of Johor since 1895, was rst

in line, but he declined due to old age. Sultan Abu Bakar, Sultan of

Pahang since 1932, despite being next in line for the throne following

Sultan Ibrahim, was rejected ve times by his fellow electors, and

did not secure the necessary votes. Tuanku Abdul Rahman of Negeri

Sembilan, having been elected to his state throne in 1933, was even-

tually elected, with eight votes in favour of him against one opposing

vote.

2.2 History of Royalty

in Malaysia

List of Yang di-Pertuan Agongs in Malaysia since 1957

Figure 2.2 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Pertama

Al-Marhum Tuanku Rahman Ibni Al-Mar-

hum Tuanku Muhammad

State: Negeri Sembilan

Period: 3 Ogos 1957 1 April 1960

Figure 2.3 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kedua

Al-Marhum Tuanku Hisamuddin Alam Shah

Al-Haj Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Alaiddin

Sulaiman Shah

State: Selangor

Period: 14 April 1960- 1 September 1960

Figure 2.4 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Ketiga

Al-Marhum Tuanku Syed Putra ibni

Al-Marhum Syed Hassan Jamalullail

State: Perlis

Period: 21 September 1960 20 September

1965

15

Figure 2.5 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Keempat

Al-Marhum Tuanku Ismail Nasiruddin Shah

ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Zainal Abidin

State: Terengganu

Period: 21 September 1965 20 September

1970

Figure 2.6 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kelima

Tuanku Alhaj Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah

ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Badlishah

State: Kedah

Period: 21 September 1970- 20 September

1975

Figure 2.7 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Keenam

Al-Marhum Tuanku Yahya Petra ibni

Al-Marhum Sultan Ibrahim

State: Kelantan

Period: 21 September 1975 29 Mac 1979

Figure 2.8 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Ketujuh

Tuanku Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Mus-

tain Billah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Abu

Bakar RiAyatuddin Al-Muadzam Shah

State: Pahang

Period: 26 April 1979- 25 April 1984

Figure 2.9 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kesem-

bilan

Al-Marhum Tuanku Sultan Azlan Muhib-

buddin Shah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Yussuf

Izzuddin Shah Ghafarullahu-lah

State: Perak

Period: 26 April 1989 25 April 1994

Figure 2.10 Yang di Pertuan Agong Kese-

puluh

Al-Marhum Tuanku Jaafar ibni Almarhum

Tuanku Abdul Rahman

State: Negeri Sembilan

Period: 26 April 1994- 25 April 1999

16

Figure 2.11 Yang di -Pertuan Agong Kese-

belas

Al-Marhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz

Shah Alnaj ibni Al-Marhum Sultan His-

amuddin Alam Shah Alhaj

State: Selangor

Period: 26 April 1999 21 November 2001

Figure 2.12 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Kedua

Belas

Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin ibni Al-Marhum

Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail

State: Perlis

Period: 13 December 2001 21 December

2006

Figure 2.13 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Ketiga

Belas

Al-Wathiqu Billah Tuanku Mizan Zainal

Abidin Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Mahmud

Al-Mukta Billal Shah

State: Terengganu

Period: 13 December 2006 12 December

2011

Figure 2.14 Yang di-Pertuan Agong Keem-

pat Belas

Almutasimu Billahi Muhibbuddin Tuanku

Al-Haj Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah ibni

Almarhum Sultan Badlishah

State: Kedah

Period: 13 December 2011 Present

17

The Istana Negara means the national palace. Each individual

state in Malaysia has its own royal family, meaning that every state

has its own history of residential palaces for the royalty in that state.

The Istana Negara of this study is located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

2.3 History of the Istana

18

The Malacca Sultanate Palace is actually a replica of the structure that

was built by the already extinct sultanate of Malacca. The sultanate of

Malacca was the previous line of rulers of the city prior to the arrival

of the Portuguese in the 1500s. The plan of the palace was based on

the Malay Annals account of Sultan Mansur Shahs palace, a noble-

man who ruled Malacca from 1456 to 1477. The Malacca Sultanate

Palace is one of its only kinds in Malaysia, offering a rare glimpse at

the ancient Malay kingdom that once ourished in Malacca.

Figure 2.15 Malacca Sultanate Palace, 1459. Photo by Malacca

Attractions.

Istana Balai Besar (The Grand Place) is a single story palace built by

Sultan Muhammad II over 170 years ago, as the of cial residence

of past sultans. It is believed that bull ghts used to be held in the

palace for of cial Royal ceremonies until mid-1900. Built by Sultan

Muhammad II as a replacement to the Kota Lama Palace. Known as

House of Gold Flower.

Figure 2.16 Istana Balai Besar, 1840. Photo by Kelantan Attrac-

tions.

Astana is the of cial residence of the Governor of Sarawak, also called

the Yang Di-Pertua Negeri. It is located along the bank of the Sarawak

River in Kuching, Sarawak. The Astana, which means palace in the

local dialect, was constructed in 1870 for the newly married Charles

Brooke, the second Rajah of Sarawak.

Figure 2.17 The Astana, 1870. Photo by Asia Explores.

19

Istana Balai Besar is located in the heart of Kota Bharu. Sultan Mu-

hammad II who reigned from 1839 to 1886 built the old palace in

1842-1844. The castle was built on a land area of 1.6 hectares. Istana

Balai Besar was established to replace the Old Palace , which is lo-

cated on the island of Saba near the east bank of Sungai Kelantan that

were eroding its banks because of oods that occur every year . These

Saba city is the seat of government of the Sultanate of Kelantan in the

period before 1842 . It is the oldest Palace building in Selangor Darul

Ehsan which is still existing.

Figure 2.18 Istana Jugra, 1875. Photo by Asia Explores.

Istana Jahar (Jahar Palace) is built by Sultan Muhamad II in 1887 for

his grandson Long Kundur. Following the demise of Sultan Muham-

mad II in 1886, the Kelantan State throne was replaced by Long Su-

long which reigned with the was continued until its completion. It has

luxurious woodcarvings that showcase the excellent craftsmanship of

the Kelantanese. Now houses the Museum of Royal Traditions and

Ceremonies.

Figure 2.19 Istana Jahar, 1887. Photo by Asia Explores.

20

One of the palaces which still remains intact to this day is the Istana

Lama Seri Menanti. Being lavishly unique and picturesque, the pal-

ace is also known as the icon of the Negeri Sembilan royal family.

The breathtaking panorama of the area became the reason of its being

made a place to live and an administrative centre of the Kings of Neg-

eri Sembilan of yesteryear. Magni cent palaces with their intricate

carvings were built here as the residence for the Yang di- Pertuans.

Figure 2.20 Istana Sri Menanti, 1908. Photo by Asia Explores.

Istana Kenangan, which now houses the Royal Museum, was built

in 1926 by a Malay craftsman by the name of Encik Sopian and his

two sons, Zainal Abidin and Ismail, from Bukit Mertajam. The palace

was built on the decree of the late Sultan Iskandar as a temporary res-

idence while waiting for Istana Iskandariah to be completed. Prior to

that, the Sultan resided in Istana Negara, which had been demolished

to make way for Istana Iskandariah.

Figure 2.21 Istana Kenangan, 1926. Photo by Arkib Government.

21

The palace was originally a double-storey mansion called The Big

House built in 1928 by a local Chinese millionaire, Chan Wing.

During the Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945, it was used as

the residence of the Japanese Governor. With the formation of the

Federation of Malaya in 1950, the Selangor State Government rented

the residence from the owners for 5,000 Straits Dollars a month until

Merdeka (the Malayan independence) in 1957. It was then renovated

to become the palace of His Majesty the Sultan of Selangor.

Figure 2.22 Old Istana Negara, 1928. Photo by Woo Wen Jian.

Built on a piece of land at Lot 41, Padang Seri Negara Mukim Batu

Buruk, the palace ground meaures some 41.844 hectares in area. The

Palace was rst erected in the era of Sultan Sulaiman Badrul Alam

Shah (1920-1942), the 13th Sultan of Terengganu. Unfortunately, due

to his death, the Sultan did not manage to occupy the new palace.

His body was however, conducted from this palace on the way to his

nal resting place. The Palace was made Renca-Concol during the

Japanese occupation of Malaya. Badariah Palace then became of cial

residence to the 14th Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin

Shah (1945-1979).

Figure 2.23 Istana Badariah, 1940. Photo by Arkib Government.

22

Istana Darul Ehsan , located in Putrajaya, Malaysia, is one of the royal

residences of the Sultan of Selangor (Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah).

Constructed on the 20th November 2000, this huge grey mansion

beside Putrajaya Lake symbolizes the appreciation from Malaysias

Federal Government to Selangor State for ceding Putrajaya to the fed-

eral government. It is constructed in Tudor style with high deep grey

faade to be the Royal Retreat for the Sultan of Selangor.

Figure 2.24 Istana Darul Ehsan, 200. Photo by Arkib Government.

Istana Anak Bukit located in the Mount or the highway a little high

on a small island formed from Sungai Anak Bukit and Sungai Kuala

Cegar , setting up of a landmark that symbolizes the sovereignty of

the Sultanate of Kedah . Istana Anak Bukit a place of residence for

the Royal family of His Majesty the Sultan of Kedah family. In front

of the entrance gate of the palace, royal seal and emblem emblazoned

on the tree-lined rain all the way into the palace.

Figure 2.25 Istana Anak Bukit, 2007. Photo by Malaysian Explorer.

23

This Istana Negara is the of cial residence of His Majesty the Yang di

- Pertuan Agong and Her Majesty the Queen. Located in Jalan Duta ,

Kuala Lumpur and is a landmark for the monarchic system of govern-

ment in Malaysia . This palace architecture involving safety aspects

and features of special aesthetic with its emphasis on building its tra-

ditional Islam and Malay on the building and its surroundings. Istana

Negara is located in an area of 241.3 acres (97.65 hectares).

Figure 2.26 Istana Negara Baru, 2011. Photo by Malaysian Explor-

er.

24

The Old National Palace (Istana Negara Lama) has been adapted ve

different times in its lifetime, according to changing usage require-

ments. It was originally designed as a double-storey mansion by the

oldest Singaporean architectural rm, Swan and Maclaren, for a con-

temporary local Chinese millionaire called Chan Wing. The construc-

tion of the mansion was started in 1928 and completed in 1933. It is

now a museum, after having served as the of cial residence of the

Supreme King of Malaysia (Yang di-Pertuan Agong) for 54 years,

since the countrys independence until 2011. It had also been used for

the Japanese and British armies. The palace is located on a 13-acre

site positioned on the slope of a hill in Bukit Petaling in the heart of

the Malaysian capital city, Kuala Lumpur, and overlooks the Klang

River. The original mansion was heavily in uenced by Palladian ar-

chitecture and was especially built in such a way to bring together

Chan Wings huge family of 8 wives and 22 children in one house.

The main important historical architectural elements that are found in

this building are the doors, windows, roof, dome, porch and the land-

scaping. It is also important to note the multiple renovation works that

have been done to this building in its lifetime.

2.4 History of Istana Negara

Istana Negara is located at the South of Kuala Lumpur along Jalan

Syed Putra and Jalan Istana. There are several landmarks that are

found surrounding the palace; Stadium Merdeka and Stadium Negara.

Both the buildings are found northerly of the palace. The palace can

be accessed easily via several entrances. The Main Palace Entrance

acts as the main gate, which is also a favorite spot for picture taking.

The other entrances are only permissible for authorized administra-

tive members of the palace. The Istana Negara overlooks Klang Riv-

er, which can be seen from inside the palace. The exterior design of

the palace gradually changes overtime as the ownership changes. The

Istana Negara mansion itself takes up half of the 13 acres land. There

are other facilities available on site such as a swimming pool and bad-

minton courts. It is located on a slope of a hill as to provide a natural

defense for the palace as well as to show its grandness in comparison

to its surroundings. The remaining space has been taken care of beau-

tifully as a garden. The palace is completely surrounded by greenery

with a fountain that effortlessly blends with the geography, making

the palace more picturesque.

This building has an incredibly rich history, having been constructed

in the early 1930s. Chan Wing was a migrant from China who, after

much struggle, was able to create an af uent life for himself and his

big family in Malaysia. By 1913, he had acquired enough success to

open his new bank and wanted to mark his fortunes by building the

biggest house in Malaya at that time. Unfortunately, Chan Wing was

25

infamous for having contributed towards the China War and would

have been possibly targeted by the Japanese invaders. (Chan Wing)

His portrait is shown in Figure 2.27. He ed Malaysia and the man-

sion was used as the residence of the Japanese. Three years later, the

British occupied Malaya. During this time, they commanded the man-

sion for a senior military of cers mess. In 1950, the Selangor govern-

ment rented the residence from the British and renovated it to become

the palace for the Sultan of Selangor. A few months before the Inde-

pendence of Malaysia was declared, the Federal Government bought

over the mansion at a cost of RM1.4m, converting it as the National

Palace. The palace saw many renovation and upgrading works, the

main being the addition of a whole new building (annexed) unit in

1980.In 2007, the construction of the new Istana Negara began. It

only took four years for the majestic new building to be completed.

Now the original Istana Negara is open to the public as a nostalgic

icon of the unique Malaysian monarchy.

Location of Istana Negara

Istana Negara is located at the South of Kuala Lumpur along Jalan

Syed Putra and Jalan Istana. There are a few landmarks that surround

the palace, the most notable ones being Stadium Negara and Stadium

Merdeka, which are both located north of the palace. The palace is

accessible through several points of entry. The main gate acts as the

Main Palace Entrance, which is also a favorite spot for tourist pic-

ture taking. The other entrances are only permissible for authorized

administrative members of the palace. The Istana Negara also over-

26

Figure 2.27 Mr. Chan Wings portrait. (Chan Wing)

looks the Klang River a view visible from inside the palace. The

building itself takes up half of the 13 acres land and has its exterior

design gradually changing as ownership changes overtime. Other fa-

cilities available on site are a swimming pool, and badminton courts.

As a show of grandeur and to provide a natural defense, the palace

is located on a slope of a hill. The remaining space has been taken

care of beautifully as a garden. The palaces ground is covered with

many plants and trees with a fountain feature that naturally blends

with the landscape, creating a very picturesque scene. Figure 2.28 and

Figure 2.29 are photographs of the Istana Negara in 1940 and 1956,

respectively, and the difference between them and Figure 2.30 is very

notable.

2.4.1 Ownership

About Chan Wing

A Chinese Immigrant who built Istana Negara, Chan Wing was born

in 1873 in the Xin Hui District, Pearl River Delta, Canton (Guang

Zhou). He arrived in Malaya at the age of 14 in 1887. He had a total

of 22 children with 8 wives. (Chan Wing) Being a staunch believer in

the teachings of Confucious, he and many other chinese men of their

times took multiple wives to carry on the family lineage. He rst lived

in a house on Weld Road (the present Jalan Raja Culan) upon arriving

in KL with his family, and also became the richest and most success-

ful man in KL after the opening of the Hong Fatt Tin Mine in 1897 at Figure 2.30 Photo of the current physical state of Istana Negara.

(Woo, 2015)

Figure 2.28 Photo of Istana

Negara before the rst renova-

tions in 1940. (Choong)

Figure 2.29 Photo of Istana

Negara in 1956. (Choong)

27

the age of 24, in Sungai Besi (known as The Mines now). Afterwards,

Chan Wing ventured into rubber plantations and also opened a bank,

Kwong Yik Bank Corporation, in 1913. As Weld House became too

small for his growing family, Chan Wing purchased a 13 acres piece

of land and contacted the well known architecture rm Swann & Ma-

claren to design the biggest house in Malaya. The building was

completed in 1928 and he lived there until the second World War in

1941 when the Japanese invaded Malaya. Chan Wing had to leave

Malaya, as he was known to be one of the biggest contributors of the

China War Relief Fund, which placed him high on the wanted list of

the Japanese Imperial Army. He and his family ed to Cameron, and

then onwards to Mussorie in India and other countries to wait for the

war to end until March 1946. He later passed away 1947 at the age of

74. (Chan Wing)

Introduction to Istana Negara

The Old National Palace (Istana Negara Lama) has been altered as

many as ve different times throughout its lifetime, in accordance

to its constantly- changing usage requirements. It was initially de-

signed as a double-storey mansion for the contemporary local Chi-

nese millionaire Chan Wing by the oldest Singaporean architectural

rm, Swan and Maclaren. The construction of the mansion started in

1928 and nished in 1933, but it has undergone several renovations

(See Figure 2.31). Since the countrys independence in 1957, until

2011, it has served as the of cial residence of the Supreme King of

Malaysia (Yang di-Pertuan Agong). It is now preserved and displayed

Figure 2.31 The then Prime Minister of Malaysia overlooking the

renovation works. (Choong)

28

29

as a museum. It has also been used previously by the Japanese and

British armies during times of con ict. The palace is situated on a 13-

acre site placed on the slope of a hill in Bukit Petaling in the middle

of the Malaysian capital city, Kuala Lumpur, overlooking the Klang

River. The initial building was highly in uenced by Palladian archi-

tecture and was specially built and designed to accommodate Chan

Wings large family of 8 wives and 22 children, all in one house. The

main important historical-architectural elements that can be found in

this mansion are the windows, doors, dome, roof, landscaping and

its porch. There have also been multiple renovation and additions to

the structure since its original completion in 1933. (See Figure 2.31,

Figure 2.32 and Figure 2.33)

Timeline of Istana Negara

This building was constructed in the early 1930s and has an exten-

sive and rich history. Chan Wing, a migrant from China, was able to

establish a prosperous and comfortable life for himself and his family

in Malaysia, despite many struggles. He had obtained so much suc-

cess in his wealth that by 1913 he opened a new bank, and had already

planned to build the biggest house in Malaya. Sadly, Chan Wing was

well-known for having a hand in aiding the Chinese, and would have

been most likely being targeted by the Japanese invaders during the

second World War; this caused him to ee from Malaysia, and the

Japanese consequently used the mansion he left behind as a residence.

The British occupied Malaya three years later and commandeered the

mansion as a senior military of cers station. In 1950, the Selangor

Figure 2.31 The renovation and additional site plan of Old Istana

Negara. (Jabatan Penerangan, 1976)

Figure 2.32 The renovation and additional detailing plan of Old

Istana Negara. (Jabatan Penerangan, 1976)

government rented the residence from the British and renovated it to

become the palace for the Sultan of Selangor. The Federal Govern-

ment then bought over the building for RM 1.4 million, a few months

before Malaysias Independence Day. It was then converted into the

National Palace. A major renovation was undertaken in 1980 where

a whole new building (annexed) unit was added. Construction for a

new Istana Negara commenced in 2007 and took four years to com-

plete. Currently, the original Istana Negara is open to the public as a

nostalgic representation of the Malaysian monarchy.

Location of Istana Negara

Istana Negara is located at the South of Kuala Lumpur along Jalan

Syed Putra and Jalan Istana. There are a few landmarks that surround

the palace, the most notable ones being Stadium Negara and Stadium

Merdeka, which are both located north of the palace. The palace is

accessible through several points of entry. The main gate acts as the

Main Palace Entrance, which is also a favorite spot for tourist picture

taking. The other entrances are only permissible for authorized ad-

ministrative members of the palace. The Istana Negara also overlooks

the Klang River a view visible from inside the palace. The building

itself takes up half of the 13 acres land and has its exterior design

gradually changing as ownership changes overtime. Other facilities

available on site are a swimming pool, and badminton courts. As a

show of grandeur and to provide a natural defense, the palace is lo-

cated on a slope of a hill. The remaining space has been taken care

of beautifully as a garden. The palaces ground is covered with many

Figure 2.33 The renovation and additional detailing plan of Old

Istana Negara of the main gate in front. (Jabatan Penerangan, 1976)

30

plants and trees with a fountain feature that naturally blends with the

landscape, creating a very picturesque scene.

2.4.2 Renovations

In May 1957, a total of RM 328,000.00 was spent on the renova-

tion and redecoration of the palace (which was then 29 years old).

Sixty workers under the supervision of a local contractor started the

construction, bringing architect E. K. Dinsdales beautiful design to

reality. Additions to the building included seven bedrooms (giving

the palace 20 bedrooms altogether), four living rooms, a balai meng-

adap, a dining room and a kitchen that could serve up to 100 people.

Dinsdales design was successful in creating a majestic atmosphere,

with 350-square-yards of carpet adding grandeur to the majestic stair-

cases. Three thousand litres of paint was used to produce the carefully

chosen colour scheme. Wide ranges of colours starting from mimo-

sa yellow to the commodore blue were used in the interior of the

building, while white and grey were used in the exterior sections. It

took four months for the renovation work to complete, leavig just

one week before the Independence Day on August 31st, 1957. Due to

the increase of palace staff, an annexe was added four years later to

the east wing. Further improvements were made at Istana Negara in

1980, which included the erection of fences around the whole palace

grounds as well as two special guard posts at the main entrance. More

renovation took place in conjunction with the Crowning Ceremony of

31

the 7th Yang Di-Pertuan Agong where a two-storey building was add-

ed to the Istana for the purpose of accomodating a royal conference

room and the throne room (Balairong Seri). This newly built structure

is accessible through a closed passage on the second oor of the main

building.

32

Figure 2.34 Timeline of Chan Wing and the Istana Negara.

33

Chapter ThreeDesign Concept

34

The site context is compromised of three components, the hardscape

the softscape and teh external structures. The hardscape constitutes

the unnatural landscaping, such as the pavements, the curb and the

external staircases. The softscape includes vegetation and the natural

landscaping, and the external structures are the structures not includ-

ed in the main building of the Istana Negara.

3.1.1 Hardscape

Passageway (sidewalk, paved road)

The road of the Istana Negara from the side entrance passing through

the roundabout and reaching the main gate of the palace is made en-

tirely of square tiles. The white and grey coloured tiles helps to de ne

the space as both to de ne the edges and as part of the aesthetic. (See

Figure 3.1, Figure 3.2, and Figure 3.3)

The road of the Istana Negara from the side entrance passing through

the roundabout and reaching the main gate of the palace is made en-

3.1 Site Context Figure 3.1 The pave-ment in front of the palace. (Woo, 2015)Figure 3.2 The pave-

ment that connects the

Royal Museum Gallery

to the Balairun Seri

Gallery. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.3 View of the

pavement looking down

to the main entrance.

(Woo, 2015)

35

tirely of square tiles. The white and grey coloured tiles helps to de ne

the space as both to de ne the edges and as part of the aesthetic.

Figure 3.2 shows the sidewalk which connects the Royal Museum

Gallery from the Balairung Seri Gallery. One can exit the ambassador

room from the Istana Negara and walk straight into the Balairung Seri

if you are on ground oor.

While the main palace buildings are mostly paved roads and tiles

roads, the gardens of the Istana Negara are concrete tiles arranged in

the same way as shown in Figure 3.4. These tiles help us keep a foot-

ing when traversing on the soil if there was rain. At different locations

there are also similar tiles which are arranged distinctly to indicate

different location but mostly serve the function of a foothold.

Planter Boxes

A planter box or ower box is an af xed vase which is usually placed

outdoors to display live plants and owers. It is af xed to accessible

locations for the convenience of cleaning up the plants. The planter

boxes at the Istana Negara are all placed close to entrances and dis-

play very beautiful plants. Those at the Istana are made of concrete

and one has tiles as part of its design. (See Figure 3.5)

Curb

A curb is the edge whereby a pavement or sidewalk which is raised

meets a road which is unraised. Usage of curbs begun in the 18th

Figure 3.4 Example of tiled pavements used in

the royal garden. (Woo,

2015)

Figure 3.5 Photograph

of a planter box out-

side the entrance of the

Istana Negara build-

ing. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.6 Photograph

of a curb on the tiled

pavement on the exte-

rior. (Woo, 2015)

century and has been part of modern architecture eveer since. The

curbs at the Istana are made of concrete and surrounds all walkways.

Recently, there were paintjobs to help keep it white to preserve the

cleanliness of the Istana. (See Figure 3.6)

Fountains

A fountain is an architectural element which pours water or ejects

water into the air to either supply water or mainly for decorative pur-

poses. Past fountains were functional which receives its water from

springs or aqueducts for drinking water or other purposes. These

fountains were manned by gravity but it lost its ef ciency to mechan-

ical pumps which allowed fountains to recycle water and to force it

high into the air. The Istana Negara has these fountains incorporated

as part of its design and can be found all over the Istana Negara. Each

fountain is unique to its own as the design varies completely which

makes each having its own characteristics. These fountains, however,

are merely decorative. (See Figure 3.7 and Figure 3.8)

Retaining Walls

Retaining walls (seen in Figure 3.9) are walls which functions as a

soil restraint to unnatural slopes. They are bound to soils between two

different elevations often in terrain with undesirable slopes or man-

made hillside and overpasses. The retaining walls at the Istana Negara

were man-made to plant shrubs and plants and are a part of the design.

The materials used are stones which are arranged artistically.

36

Figure 3.7 Fountain directly outside the entrance to the Istana Nega-

ra building. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.8 Fountain in the lake

of the royal gardens. (Woo,

2015)

Figure 3.9 Retaining walls are used to ensure the soil does not

move and cause damage. (Woo,

2015)

37

Barricades

Barricades are barriers which block the ow of traf c or passage in

its desired direction. These barricades were made for the purpose of

protection and have been around since the 80s. The barricades at the

Istana Negara are built as a wall marking its huge territory and serve

to shield the palace. (See Figure 3.10) The barricade walls outside

the whole Istana are made entirely of concrete whilst those inside are

metal bars with concrete pillars.

Drainage

Drainage is the natural or arti cial removal of liquid from a surface.

This drainage is naturally lled by rainwater and transfers the wa-

ter into larger drains beneath the surface to be discharged out. The

drainage at Istana Negara is widely varied and each are found at very

useful areas. This helps with the water ventilation and is also part of

the design. (See Figure 3.12)

Bridges

A bridge is a structure built as roads over large bodies of water, val-

leys or roads. Its purpose is simple; to provide passage over an ob-

stacle. Bridges are built differently depending on its situation as dif-

ferent designs of bridges result in different functions too. (See Figure

3.11) Bridges are made depending on factors such as terrain nature

where the bridge is constructed, materials used and available funds.

The bridges at the Istana Negara are used as a walkway over the lakes

and provide access to different areas. When standing atop these bridg-

Figure 3.10 Barricades, or gates surrounding the Istana Negara as a

type of security. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.12 (left) Drainage near the

boundaries of the site. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.11 (above) The white bridge in the garden to cross the pond. (Woo, 2015)

es, one can see a magni cent view of the lake and the water fountains

surrounded with natures beauty.

3.1.2 Softscape

Within the site boundaries, there are several different types of vege-

tation that make up the greenery that surrounds the whole structure.

Seeing as it was the royal palace, extra measures were taken to care

for few rarer species of plants. The main and therefore most plentiful

of the species make up majority of the garden. (See Figure 3.13)

Foxtail Palm (Wodyetia)

The Foxtail Palm is usually around 12 meters in height, and has a

grey coloured trunk. This tree has a owering plan, and upward about

2-3 meters, the beautiful plumose leaves begin to grow. These scale

leaves are arranged in alternating decussate pairs, usually in four rows

along the twigs. (Dowl 1998)

Yew (TaxusBaccata)

This tree grows 10 to 20 meters in height, and its bark is scaly, thin

and brown, peeling off in small akes that easily align with the stem

itself. The Yews leaves are at and dark green in colour, and are ar-

ranged spirally on the stem, however the bases of the leaves twist to

align the leaves into two at rows on either side of the stem. (Rush-

forth, 1999)

38

Figure 3.13 View of the royal garden, with the lake and white bridge. (Tee, 2015)

Melaka Tree (Phyllanthus emblica)

The leaves on the Melaka tree are simple, sebsessile, and very closely

set together along the branchlets. They resemble pinnate leaves and

are light green in color. This deciduous trees height usually ranges

from 8 to 18 meters tall. The branchlets are quite glabrous or very

nely pubescent. It has a crooked trunk and spreading branches. (US

Department of Agriculture, 2008)

Perupok (Lepisanthes alata)

The Perupoks inner bark tends to be a brownish colour, with pale

streaks or wedges, with a smell similar to ginger. This 10 meter tall

tree has owers that will grow out of its main trunk, also known as

cauli ory. These owers are coloured salmon pink, with narrow

linear petals that hang down. (Mohamad, 2003)

Thuja (Arborvitaes)

Growing relatively shorter at 3 to 6 meters tall, the Thuja is a beau-

tiful evergreen tree with reddish brown back that is stringy textured.

Its shoots are quite at, while the shoots on the side grow in a single

plane. The leaves of this tree are arranged in alternating and decussate

pairs in four rows along the twigs. (Gadek, 2000)

Open Field

A eld is an area of land which are used either in agriculture or merely

an expanse of open ground. Figure 3.14 shows the eld at the Istana

Figure 3.14 The open eld in front of the Istana Negara structure.

(Woo, 2015)

39

Negara actually fall under the category of a lawn whereby the area of

land are planted with grass and other plants which are all maintained

at a short height. This are utilised as both aesthetic and recreational

purposes. Mass prayers would often be held here, with the Sultan

leading the people in prayer, especially for religious occassions.

3.1.3 External Structures

Balairung Seri

The Balairung Seri Gallery or the throne hall gallery is located in the

East Wing of the palace.. The gallery which was built in the 1980s

was used for His Majesty, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and Her Maj-

esty, the Raja Permaisuri Agong to hold of cial ceremonies. These

include the taking of royal pledge, installation ceremony of a new

elected King and appointments for new prime ministers. The gallery

is also an area to accept foreign diplomatic appointments and even a

banquet hall. Figure 3.15 shows the large event hall. Behind the hall

is a small gallery exhibiting belongings of some of the previous and

present royalties.

Management Of ce

The Management of ce is the workplace where the people in charge

of the Royal Museum use as a base of operations, as shown in Figure

3.16. They provide supervisory actions and can be looked upon for

more information. The structure is attached on the right side of the

Figure 3.15 The Balairung Seri, or the Throne Hall Gallery. (Woo,

2015)

Figure 3.16 The management of ce structure. (Woo, 2015)

40

palace, near the carpark.

Cimborium

A ciborium is a canopy or cover supported by columns and is part

of the ecclesiastical architecture. This ciborium were directed from

Islamic architecture and still exists as part of the Istana Negaras ex-

ternal structures. (See Figure 3.17 and Figure 3.18) The ciboriums at

the Istana Negara serve as a rest spot and as shelter from sun or rain.

The ciborium located here differs in both design and material which

convey different feelings. The wooden one gives a more old and clas-

sic feel whereas the concrete one exerts strength and durability whilst

keeping its classic feel as plain as possible.

Pyramid Greenhouse

The pyramid area at the Istana Negara is currently the botanical gar-

den where lots of plants are planted there to preserve its species and

also to boast the owers beauty. The pyramid houses some unique

plants and would be a favourite for plant lovers. However, today, the

botanical garden is unkept and contains few plants. (See Figure 3.19)

Swimming Pool

The Istana Negara has a luxurious open air swimming pool for rec-

reational purposes and entertainment, as shown in FIgure 3.20. The

design for the swimming pool resembles a lot from past architecture

where it uses Doric styled columns as the shelters support pillars.

The swimming pools shape is visibly in uenced by Islamic archi- Figure 3.20 The swimming pool next to the royal garden. (Te, 2015)

Figure 3.17 Cimborium in the

garden. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.18 Cimborium near the

pool. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.19 Photo of the pyramidal greenhouse.

(Woo, 2015)

41

tecture. This is exhibited in the rounded ends, which resemble a two

dimensional dome.

Carparks

The roadways of the Istana Negara will take you to the carpark if you

turn right from the side entrance. The rst image shows the carpark

for the royal family and the higher-ups and has been indicated on

every space. The second picture shows the public carpark which is a

short distance away from the royal carpark. The road materials which

are tiles stops at the royal carpark and changes to brick ooring for

the public carpark. (See Figure 3.21)

Guardhouses

The guardhouses of the Istana Negara are stations where guards are

positioned to keep watch of intruders. The guards are provided with

the Malay out t Baju Melayu and given a horse to stand watch and

patrol. There are three guardhouses found at the Istana Negara. The

one at the main entrance of the Istana Negara site is shown in Figure

3.22)

Badminton Courts

eld in the whole building as well as seat at every side of

the building is truly a marvellous stage for private badminton games.

(See Figure 3.23)

Figure 3.21 The carpark outside the management of ce. (Woo,

2015)

Figure 3.22 (left) The main entrance

for visitors. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.23 (bottom) The indoor

badminton courts. (Woo, 2015)

42

Gymnasium

The outside of the badminton hall was built to look like an old rumah

atap and had an old feeling to it. The building has dark tinted win-

dows which obscure your view if one tries to look into it. The side

elevation also shows that one of the walls are made entirely of bricks.

(See Figure 3.24)

Futsal Field

Right next to the gymnasium is a fenced area which can be accessed

through a small gate leading to the futsal eld. The eld is wide enough

for ve-a-side games that can prove challenging. (Figure 3.25)

Figure 3.24 Exterior view of the badminton courts. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.25 Outdoor futsal eld or tennis courts. (Woo, 2015)

43

44

Having spanned a life of over 80 years, under the cultural in uence

of Malays, Indians, Chinese, and the British, the Istana Negara con-

tains elements from different cultures. During this time, however,

the Western in uence was new and strong, and as a result, the largest

in uences on this building were western ones; Palladian style, and

British colonial style.

3.2.1 Palladian style

Palladian style is a style based on the designs of the 16th-century Ital-

ian architect Andrea Palladio (1508-1580). Palladio got his inspira-

tion from ancient Roman buildings and his work conveys rationality

in its clarity, order, and symmetry whilst still keeping the classical

forms and ornate motifs in mind. This is even demonstrated in the

fountains seen in Figure 3.26) Palladian exteriors were mostly quite

plain and apply rules of proportion contrasting its ourish interiors.

Palladianism was very fashionable and popular from about the year

1715 to 1760.

3.2 ArchitecturalInfluences

Figure 3.26 Top view of one of the fountains outside the entrance. (Tee, 2015)

45

The Istana Negara has very obvious indications of its architecture

style being in uenced by the Palladian style with many prominent

features and elements present.

Corinthian Columns

Palladian style is widely known for its usage of Corinthian order col-

umns. These columns are most recognizable by their decorative cap-

ital, which has been adopted into the columns seen in Figure 3.7 and

3.8. The slender uted columns are ornate with two rows of acanthus

leaves and four scrolls. An example of these elegant columns can be

found in Istana Negaras entrance to the Ministers Room.

Pediments

Pediments are a construction element consisting of a gable supported

by columns. They were used over doors and windows of the buildings

and are also found over the interior doors. Palladian style incorporates

a lot of this design in its construction. Most of the pediment would be

decorated with relief sculpture. In the Istana Negara these pediments

are found in abundance and the main designs of it were mostly curved

pediments. It also has its relief of the Royal Insignia of His Majesty

printed on a glass. (See Figure 3.28)

Symmetry

As seen in Figure 3.29, Palladian designs heavily emphasize the ide-

ology of symmetry. This means that when a line separates the middle,

Figure 3.27 Capital of the

column at the entrance of

the ministers room on the

Ground Floor. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.28 Pediment

above two Corinthian

columns at the entrance of

the ministers room on the

Ground Floor. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.29 Diagram show-

ing the symmetry in the

oor plan. (Woo, 2015)

46

both sides are identical to each other. Symmetry and balance were of

great importance since ancient Greek and Roman architecture which

was what inspired Andrea Palladios style. This is because symmetry

became a metaphor for a sense of harmony and agreement between

two sides. The Istana Negara, when cut into demonstrates symmetry

and thus proving itself to be a Palladian in uenced building. It con-

sists of a structured west and east wing with a large space in between.

Symmetry can also be seen in the two white cupolas, which tops the

structure above each wing. Finally, the re ection of the plan in the

section is also an important factor in the buildings symmetry.

Windows

A Palladian window is usually a large window that is divided into

three separate parts. The centre section is larger than the two side

sections and is usually arched. At the Istana Negara, there are many

different designs for the windows, which differ at different places.

Some are frosted, tinted and some were completely translucent. (See

Figure 3.30)

Doors

The designs for the doors are different depending on the hierarchy

of importance of the doors. The doors to individual bedrooms, bath-

rooms, and even some meeting rooms are single doors. Figure 3.9

shows a door to the exterior topped with a rounded arch, which are

anked by vertical rectangular areas of xed glass on each side that

are narrower than and also not as high as the door. This is suggestive

Figure 3.30 Door and

window arrangement on the

ground oor. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.31 One of the

doors from the exterior to

the interior. (Woo, 2015)

47

of the appearance of a Palladian styled window.

Main Entrance

The main entrance of the Istana Negara where the changing of guards

occurs has a strong sense of the Palladian style, which can be clearly

seen on both the columns and gate structure. (See Figure 3.32) The

columns used are solid and structural, to emulate security, while the

gold ornamentation shows a sense of royalty. The palace is located

within a 13-hectare site, and therefore the surrounding landscape is

very important. The landscape is used to highlight the majesty and

grandeur of the building.

3.2.2 British Colonial Style

The British Colonial style rst came about when the British colonies

and trading posts around the world were rst established in the 16th

and 17th centuries, and reached its peak in the 19th and early 20th

centuries. The British Empire covered approximately one-quarter of

the world and was an empire on which it seemed like the sun never

set. As British subjects were sent around the world to colonies to help

govern, do business, and protect the home countrys interests, they

brought with them their traditional decor from home which they in-

termingled with local materials and styles and modi ed them for their

own needs of climate and landscape. They produced a unique and

beautiful blended British colonial style.

Figure 3.32 View of the main entrance on the south side. (Woo,

2015)

48

This style mainly focuses on the interiors of the building and as such

affects the furniture and the interior aesthetic. The Istana Negara ex-

hibits a lot of characteristic from this style.

Campaign Furniture

Inspired by the passion of exotic travel, many British Colonial fur-

nishings were speci cally designed to transform into travel-ready

pieces called campaign furniture. This means that the furniture can be

folded and easily stored and even ready to be shipped off to the next

location. Examples are classic pieces such as criss-cross legs in clean

lines and dark woods used to made desks. At the Istana, there was a

lot of campaign furniture that were placed in almost every room. (See

Figure 3.33)

Lightweight and Eclectic Fabric

As a style which absorbed authentic textiles from Asia, India, Africa

and the Caribbean, this style was only possible through the collectors

who travelled all around the world merging them together. Botanical

prints, paisleys, ikats and animal prints in lighter weight cottons and

linens were the prime examples of the British Colonial style. Most

of the furniture, cloths and even interior details at the Istana were all

made from lightweight and eclectic fabrics. (See Figure 3.34)

Tropical Inspired Furnishings

During this time, and as seen in Figure 3.35, the solid and formal de-

Figure 3.33 Photo of the gift

shop which exhibits campaign

furniture and lightweight and

eclectic fabrics. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.34 The curtain and

fabric of the chair demonstrates

lightweight and eclectic fabric.

(Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.35 Example of topi-

cal inspired furnishings. (Woo,

2015)

49

signs of the Victorian era were revised to accommodate more tropical

locales. Carved pineapples, lattice work and turned elements were

carved into woods and used alongside bamboo, rattan and leather

accents. The pieces had tropic inspirations but retained elements of

British formality with dark woods. The furnishings at the Istana had a

very huge impact from the British Colonial style as these details can

be seen almost everywhere; doors, wall details and even ornaments.

Light and airy colours

Light and neutral shades adorned the walls of a traditional British

Colonial interior. These airy hues helped colonial house-dwellers

psychologically combat the overwhelming tropical heat. As for Ma-

laysias all year round heat, the Istana is composed of the royal air,

yellow, tans, creams and white to contrast the darker colored furnish-

ings. (See Figure 3.36)

Eclectic Furniture

The world-travelling Brits who aided the built of this design style ac-

cumulated a wealth of eclectic accessories that they loved to display.

Examples of this are ne china, crystal and silver sat on shelves along

with carved pieces, globes, maps, telescopes, letter-writing boxes and

tortoise patterned glass. However these are only the few of the many

that can be placed. The Istana has a lot of rare and eclectic accessories

which decorate the rooms and make them an interesting addition to its

appeal. (See Figure 3.37 and Figure 3.38)

Figure 3.36 Her maj-

estys of ce demon-

strates the use of light

and airy colors. (Woo,

2015)

Figure 3.37 The living

room suite for one of

the bedrooms shows

the use of eclectic fur-

niture. (Woo, 2015)

Figure 3.38 Ths old

decorated telephone

shows the use of eclec-

tic furniture. (Woo,

2015)

50

Flora and Fauna

The British were quite intent with their local ora and fauna in their

new surroundings, and thus adapted them into their houses. Potted

plants, ferns and palms convey the incredible drama of the tropics to

these elegant homes. The Istana built on a 97.65 hectares land has its

own share of ora and fauna attractively blended together. The orae

and trees planted at the Istana have its own traditional worth and there

were even fascinating wildlife that could be found there. Examples of

this can be seen in Figure 3.39 and Figure 3.40.

Figure 3.39 Image of a lizard on the Istana Negara grounds. Photo by Celine Tee.

Figure 3.40 Image of the horses that were once used to wander around the grounds of Istana Negara.

51

The Istana Negara is a double-storied castle constructed with the

main components of brick and cement. Concrete and stonework was

celebrated and almost always shown. This creates a very solid, sturdy

and heavy massing of the structure, reminiscent of Palladios palaces.

The castle overall exude a very grand and luxurious feel to it and it

synchronizes well since it is a castle made for royalty.

3.3.1 Form

The concept behind the form of the building is symmetry. Symme-

try creates balance which in turn forms harmony, order and design.

Symmetry can be found everywhere and is the reason as to why we

love it. By being a constant in our daily lives, our human theory has

our mind to create order in the things we see and the actions we do.

At the Istana Negara, the palace is built into symmetrical halves and

is the main form of the building. By having a symmetrical form, the

palace has its own uniqueness to it. Figure 3.41 shows the symmetry

exhibited in the facade of the building.

3.3 Design Concept

Figure 3.41 Cropped view of the center of the facade of Istana Neg-ara shows a detailed symmetry of the facade. (Woo, 2015)

3.3.2 Exterior

The Istana Negara bears great resemblance to Islamic architecture.

This is proven by its plain exterior with a lavish interior. The Istana

Negaras building exterior although packs a whole lot of details but

when compared to the interior, it is that big of a difference. To further

proof the design concept is from Islamic architecture are the usage

of domes and also the ornamental tiles used. The usage of domes has

been a feature of Islamic architecture and has been incorporated into

the construction of all the mosques. However, this does not mean that

the dome signi es a building of religion but to show its Islamic roots.

(See Figure 3.42)

Other than the dome, the Istana Negara has ciboriums around the gar-

den areas. Ciboriums were used as a design concept in the earliest

surviving Islamic building, the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. This

points to the Islamic design concept which is kept even through all

those years of renovation.

3.3.3 Interior

The interior of the Istana Negara has been extravagantly designed like

I said previously and most of this came from the Islamic architecture

design concept; to keep the exterior plain while having a beautiful in-

52

Figure 3.42 view of the Istana Negaras exterior. (Tee, 2015)

terior much similar to Art Deco style. The interior has a more promi-