Terengganu - The east coast states, long famed for wood carving and traditional Malay homes, are likely to see a renaissance in home-based architecture with the launch of East Coast Economic Region (ECER).
"I believe ECER will provide the much-needed impetus that has been lacking before to preserve, promote and revive this dying heritage," said Senikayu Warisan‘s owner and an architecture practitioner Burhan Ashari.
In a statement here today, Petroliam Nasional Bhd, master planner of ECER, quoted Burhan as saying the programmes would provide a platform for Malay architecture practitioners to commercialise their skills and craftwork.
Meanwhile, Raja Datuk Kamarul Bahrin Shah owner of Senibahri Arkitek and creator of the fame Aryani Resort, said Terengganu has a lot to offer in terms of Malay architecture not only to the country but the world as well.
"While Terengganu is supportive in incorporating Malay architecture in state buildings, the ECER initiative will further propel the state government in promoting this legacy," he said.
According to Kamarul, Malay architecture is highly marketable to foreigners who were looking for unique concepts for their homes.
"Those from the Middle East will also find our architecture interesting due to their Islamic affiliation with Malaysia‘s Islamic roots and culture.
"There is huge potential under the ECER to promote Malay architecture through tourism," Kamarul said.
Both entrepreneurs were already in talks with some Middle Eastern investors to export Malay architecture works there, Petronas said.
Pura Tanjung Sabtu‘s entrepreneur, Tengku Ismail Tengku Su, meanwhile, said the ECER would improve the awareness of the region‘s rich Malay architecture heritage.
"It‘s a good idea and will help boost property investment in the region as well as promote Malay traditional houses to foreign investors. In addition, Malay architecture also has great potential for the region‘s development in resorts and hotels, in line with the ECER tourism plans," Tengku Ismail.
Source: www.bernama.com (12 November 2007)
