CONSERVATION
INTRODUCTION
The role of the Conservation Division is to ascertain the principles of conservation which includes preservation works, restoration, reconstruction, rehabilitation, adaptation and other conservation approaches are carried out based on methods which are recognized internationally, such as by the United Nation Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and charters under the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), like the Burra Charter, Australia Charter 1999 (Charter for the Conservation of Places of Cultural Significance. This is to ensure they meet requirements of the National Heritage Act 2005 [Act 645] and Heritage Building Conservation Guideline.
• Act as a Secretariat of the Expert Committee on Architectural and Landscape Heritage is responsible for managing the nomination and evaluation process of heritage sites, including buildings, monuments, and landscapes, that have the potential to be gazette under the National Heritage Act 2005 [Act 645].
• Responsible in ensuring compliance of the technical aspects of preservation works by conducting preliminaries study to survey and inspect generally the physical condition and other related issues.
• Conducting a study on building defects as well as provides suggestions on repair works that has to be done. Implementation of the study includes preparation of the sketch plan of building for the purpose of defect mapping, identify causes of defect and then propose methods of repair works.
• Responsible to supervise conservation projects carried out by the Department of National Heritage and to advise conservation works that has to be carried out by the other agencies in Malaysia.
• Act as Secretariat in the preparation of the Conservation Management Plan for buildings which have been gazette under the National Heritage Act 2005 [Act 645]. The document serves as a reference for development, management and maintenance of the related heritage buildings.
• Conducting activities to disseminate and share knowledge on preservation of heritage building to the general public through workshops and courses.
Conservation Principles and Processes
1. Conservation Principle
Among the basic principles of conservation that are incorporated in international charters
include that the conservation works should:
i. Be able to extend the lifespan of the building.
ii. Respect the history and intrinsic quality of the property.
iii. Prioritize the original form/design, material(s) and even authentic craftsmanship.
iv. Be cautious and comprehensive in carrying out investigations and documentation
before any work that may be disruptive is done.
v. Be aware that conservation may involve works that could disturb the integrity, fabric or characteristics of the building. Therefore, any disturbance where necessary for investigations and conservation works from start to finish must be minimized.
vi. Tolerance in the interpretation and usability of the building/structure.
vii. Minimum risk for the loss of parts of the important and unexpected damages during tests on building materials.
viii. Ensure that any disturbance or disruption can be corrected or made good.
ix. Minimize any changes or amendment to the building fabric.
x. Distinguish between the old and new material.
xi. Provides maximum reinforcement to the original structure.
i. Provides documentation before, during and after conservation work.
2. Conservation Process
Conservation is a process of protecting and maintaining a heritage building and/or site from damage or from undergoing works without proper planning and management that systematically and sympathetically upholds its heritage. Conservation involves the aim of
preserving the original condition of a heritage building or site together with its historic and
cultural importance. This process includes conservation, repairs, controlled renovation, and adaptive reuse while in many cases a combination of several approaches and actions are required. The conservation process essentially aims to lengthen the lifespan of a heritage building so that it will also always be able to function.
The main objective of conservation is to protect the historic record and cultural legacy by
using proper conservation methods in preserving the overall fabric, and so the life of a heritage building is prolonged and it can function properly. The conservation process for heritage buildings is often divided into five (5) levels or phases as follows:
Preliminary Studies
To carry out a Preliminary Study to obtain information on the building, location, construction
and usage encompassing its background and history, importance and heritage values,
contemporary condition and ownership/user’s details.
Dilapidation Studies
To carry out a Dilapidation Study to identify the types and levels of damage and disturbance to the building and to propose the necessary remedies and repairs including conservation methods.
Preparation of Tender Documents
To prepare tender or quotation documents in order to determine the scope of works, conservation methods or techniques and building materials required, and the overall cost estimate for the call for tender/quotation and tender process.
Conservation Works
To carry out the building conservation works based on these Guidelines, including issuing the Pre-Conservation Report, On-going Conservation Report, Post-Conservation Report plus the Video Recording of works throughout the conservation process.
Maintenance Plan
The Maintenance Plan is prepared to ensure that the building is monitored, managed and maintained well over time using proper methods and techniques. It will be an overall plan for the scheduled maintenance of the property.