RSUSCI-2021 & RSUSOC-2021
IN21-124 A Visual Analysis of the Eclectic Shophouse Façades of Malaysia and Its Syncretism of Cultures
Presenter: Fiona E Chiong Wong
Department of Art, Design and Media, School of Arts, Sunway University
Abstract
This study presents a visual analysis of the eclectic façades of Malaysia, that were built between the late 19th- and early 20th centuries. Highlighting on particularly the ‘Chinese Baroque’ or ‘Nyonya Baroque’ style eclectic shophouse façades, this study establishes the notion of eclecticism and hybridity, through its syncretism of cultures in its decoration and ornamentation, on the eclectic Malaysian shophouse façade. This study draws examples of the eclectic shophouse façades, which were built during the 19th- and 20th-century British Malaya, and which still remain intact today, in major towns and cities of present-day Malaysia, particularly the Peninsular Malaysia for this paper. This study addresses the present critical scenario of many old shophouses, that have been refurbished, revamped, torn down and rebuilt, or left abandoned and run down, thus losing their original façade, beauty and past glory. This study recommends that due attention and conservation measures, ought to be taken to preserve and conserve the eclectic façade of these Malaysian shophouses, as they are an integral part of the country’s built heritage, as well as cultural heritage and legacy.