Royal Town of Kuala Kangsar, Perak

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 657
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Medan Pavillion Istana Iskandariah Double Lion
Source: author Source: author Source: author

MALAY & CHINESE SARACENIC ART DECO
A pagoda with Malay It is famous with pointed Simple and strong horizontle
arches and onion shaped
decoration motive dome. and vertical line can be seen

on facade.

1920 1928 1933 1939 1941

h MALAY It was built to commemorate
s It is built using wood and coronation of King George
f wooven bamboo without nail. VI and United Kingdom and
The shape came from a sword British empire
in its scabbard.

Istana Kenangan Clock Tower
Source: author Source: author

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

658 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

architecture style timeline

MODERN New Market and Majlis Perbandaran Kuala Kangsar
Simplicity Source: author Source: author

of form MODERN
The building expose its steel
material is emphasis in this
frame structure.

building

1980 1984 2000 2008 2012

MODERN MODERN MODERN
Large overhang used to adapt Long span, semi dome steel Concrete government buiding
local climate. Concrete beam structure building that provide which celebrate simple and
and column are used. open plan interior. clean aesthetic.

New Bus Terminal Arena Square Dewan Jubli Kuala Kangsar
Source: author Source: author Source: author

As shown in the timeline, the THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 659
architecture style of Kuala EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN
Kangsar create an interesting
typology in this town. Figure 3.x: Bird eye view of Kuala Kangsar
Source: author
The shophouse architecture style
in old commercial district along DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA
Jalan Daeng Selili and Jalan
Kangsar started with the early
style, followed by straits eclectic
and Art-Deco and till now is
modern style.

While the administrative
district’s building vary from
Roman to Neo-Classical and
even Dutch Colonial.

The vernacular, saccacenic
design can be seen in the royal
district.

All of the architecture style
enrich the typology and culture
in this small beautiful town,
Kuala Kangsar.

660 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS ROYAL
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN
LEGEND
ROYAL DISTRICT Royal
Comme
There are variety of mixed and fusion of architecture style to be Educatio
experienced along the Jalan Sultan in the Royal District that gives the overall iden- Recreat
tity of Kuala Kangsar as a Royal Town. Building
Figure 3.1.

A
hill top o
architectu

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 661
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

L DISTRICT There are 10 significant buildings with 6 dif-
ferent architectural styles that will be focused on in
6 the building typology of the Royal district. Three of
10 the 10 buildings was identified as landmarks of Kuala
Kangsar. All the 10 buildings based on year comple-
tion were listed as below :-

1. Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery, 1903
(Victorian Style)
1 2. Baitul Rahmah, 1911
( Malay Traditional Style)
3. Baitul Aman, 1911
( Malay Traditional Style)
4. Baitul Anor, 1912
( Malay Traditional Style)
75 5. Masjid Ubudiah, 1917 (refer to religious building)
D 34 (Indo-Saracenic Style)
6. SMK Raja Perempuan Kelsom, 1922
ercial 2 (Art-Deco Style)
onal 9 7. Madrasah Idrisiah, 1922
tional
gs (Dutch Colonial Style)
8. Istana Kenangan, 1928
( Malay Traditional Style)
8 9. Istana Iskandariah, 1933

: Map shown the location of the 10 significant buildings in the Royal District. (Indo-Saracenic Style)

10. Lanai Casuarina, 1960
(Modern Colonial Style)
Along the street of Jalan Sultan, which started from the road across the Sungai Kangsar until the
of Bukit Chandan showed the presence of royal and majestic assence with the richness of variety
ural styles that can be seen applied on the royal residences, royal mosque and royal palaces.

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

662 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 663
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

664 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 665
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

666 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 667
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

668 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 669
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

670 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery, 1903

Building on map Figure 3. : Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery, 2015, by Author

Figure 3.1. Building on map shown in black mark

Istana Hulu also known as the “ Istana Kota”,
this former place is situated on Bukit Chandan, Kua-
la Kangsar, not far away from the famed Ubudiah
Mosque. It was first built in 1903 during the reign of
Sultan Idris Mursyidul Azam Shah, the 28th Sultan
of Perak.
In 1916, the palace was occupied by Sultan
Idris Murshidul’azam Shah’s son and successor, Sul-
tan Abdul Jalil and two years later, by Sultan Izzuddin
Shah.
In 1954, the palace was taken over by the
Education Ministry and was subsequently turned
into the Istana Kota National School. In 1970, it was
converted into the Raja Perempuan Muzwin School,
named after the wife of Sultan Idris Shah.

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 671
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Bracketed cornice btuortrhetssid&estowers on Dormers
wTainlld&ownsarrow

decorative hooded window

Bracketed cornice

Quoins

Figure 3. : Heavy decoration of cornices, by Author Figure 3. : Bracketed cornice and hooded window, by Author Figure 3. : Some elements of Victorian Style, by Author

In the early 1990’s, the school moved out VICTORIAN STYLE. Istana Hulu have been ensure that there is no form of sculptures that are
and left the palace abandoned until 2002 when built in a majestic Victorian architecture with unique contrary to the teachings of Islam as form of ani-
restoration works began on the dilapidated palace fusion of European and Malay architecture. The mal or statues.
building. roof was used in Aceh effect with the use of tiered Most of the construction materials for the
After the restoration, it was transformed pyramidal shaped roof. Ulu Palace brought from abroad. The roofs was
into a gallery displaying mementoes and memorabil- Wood carvings on the wooden palace was from French and the floor tiles were from India.
ia belonging to the current Sultan Azlan Shah and carved by Raja Harun Al-Rashid, who is a renowned However, many local materials used as roof trusses
under the management of the Perak State Museums sculptor at that time. He took his inspiration by made of wood cengal and meranti wood carving of
Department. natural plants found in the garden of the palace. the best.
Meanwhile stone carvings made by sculptor that
follow instructions. Sultan Idris 1 himself always

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

672 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery, 1903

The ships passing through the waters of the
River Trade Silver has been used for carrying building
materials for the construction of Ulu’s Palace. While
the elephants were used to transport local materials.
The palace were enclosed by the city wall
built around the palace which is why it was known by
the name of the City Palace. At the top of the wall is
iron filigree with carvings of Bunga Kemboja.
Not escaping from its historical significance,
the building of Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery displays
the unique combination of architecture, such as its
unique roof shaped as ‘bumbung limas’ made from
‘nyeri’, the interesting pyramid roof structure, while
the overall design is the esthetical combination of lo-
cal and colonial characteristics.

Figure 3. : Tiered roof to allow ventilation & sunlight, by Author FAiugtuhroer3. : Narrow roof alley to allow ventilation and sunlight, by Fcaigrvuirneg3s.on:tNoparorfoewvewraylkinwtearyiobreaduotoifrusl,laynddecaorcrhateesd, bwyitAhuftlhoorarl

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 673
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Ground Floor Plan

First Floor Plan

Figure 3. : Decorative ceiling with European Style, by Author

Figure 3. : Floor plan of current function as Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery since 2003, by Author

FasigIustraen3a. Ko:taOyneatrhseatgoop, boyf tAhuethhiogrh boundary walls has iron filigree that makes the name of this palace also known Figure 3. : Original floor tiles from Italy that still preserved well, by Author

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

674 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery, 1903 - Victorian Style

Istana Hulu / Istana Kota 1903 Istana Hulu also known as the “ Istana Kota” was Royal Palace Captain Maurice Alex-
Istana Kota National School first built in 1903 during the reign of Sultan Idris School ander Cameron, Deputy
Raja Perempuan Mazwin School Murshidul’azam Shah I, the 28th Sultan of Perak. School Colonial Engineer and
Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery Chief of Sculptor of the
(current) 1954 The palace was taken over by the Education Min- Royal Gallery Straits Settlements at that
istry and was subsequently turned into the Istana
Kota National School. time
Wood carvings on the
1970 It was converted into the Raja Perempuan Mazwin palace was carved by Raja
School, named after the wife of Sultan Idris Shah.
Harun Al-Rashid
2003 the gallery now is a showcase of the life and times
of the former Sultan Azlan Shah of Perak

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 675
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Sultan Idris Murshid- Victorian architecture The turrets and towers at both sides of the palace with dor- The detail appearance
ul’adzam Shah I, the 28th Unique fusion of European and Ma- mers at each 4 sides of the roof. with carvings and staged
lay architecture. Heavy decorated with molded cornice on narrow windows, roof with decorative fascia
Sultan of Perak. Colonial style doors, arches, balusters and columns. around the pyramid roof
Combined with malay traditional floral carvings on top of and domes seems really im-
every interior openings. posing as a majestic palace

Tiered pyramidal roof to allow ventilation and sunlight.

Building materials emanating from overseas - roof tiles from
France while wall and floor tiles emanating from Italy - to
equip local stone and the best of ‘Cengal’ and ‘meranti’ timber
for roof trusses and beam.

Enclosed by the city wall built around the palace which is why
it was known by the name of the City Palace. At the top of the
wall is iron filigree with carvings of Bunga Kemboja.

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

676 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Baitul Rahmah, 1911

Building on map
Figure 3. : Building on map shown in black mark

Baitul Rahmah was named after Che Rahmah binti
Ngah Ahmad, who was the first wife of Raja Kechil
Sulong Harun Al-Rashid ibni Almarhum Sultan Id-
ris. Its architecture was described as being identical
to Baitul Aman. It’s very obvious the 104 years old
house is bigger than any other ‘kampung’ houses lo-
cated nearby. Baitul Rahmah, as its name on a yellow
signage sticked to its front wall was built in 1911.

Figure 3. : Baitul Rahmah, 2015, by Author

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 677
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

MALAY TRADITIONAL STYLE. This is an- entrance
other example of traditional Perak Malay house
which can be distinguished by the design of
the tiered pyramid roof. Also known as Rumah
Hilir, Baitul Rahmah is a very unique with its
own majestic essence carved with floral orna-
mentation from Malay Traditional architecture.

Some mixed influence from colonial also can Ground Floor remain structure F igure 3. : DAuecthoorartive fascia and malay house tunjuk langit, by
beseenfromtheconcretestructureonthegroundfloor Figure 3. : A Simmetrical house staircase in the middle, by
with some of the colonial lattice ventilation panels.

It is a very symmetrical design with a entrance
strong double volume ceiling height in between
of two open verandas on the first floor as a wel- First Floor
coming façade. The decorative fascia and ven-
tilation wall was beautifully carved with highly MFloingaugjierderat3nh.danZ:tuOhreariicnguiinr, rDaelnefntloaroenrm(pIaIliaUnnMstthr)uatctsuhroew, bedy NthoeohroHuaseniitsaa, cAtubdalulyl
skill of traditional carving with tunjuk langit (sky
pointer) at every point of pyramid and pitched
roof showed some essence of a royal palace.

sFtiagiurcreas3e., by: AFruotnhtor Figure 3. : The signage of Baitul Rahmah 1911 at the entrance staircase with sawn balusters in dewdrop pattern, by Author

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

678 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Baitul Rahmah, 1911 - Malay Traditional Style

Baitul Rahmah 1911 Baitul Rahmah was named after Che Rahmah binti Royal Residential Tuan Haji Suffian
Ngah Ahmad (Che’ Mah), who was the first wife of
Raja Kechil Sulong Harun Al-Rashid ibni Almar-
hum Sultan Idris

The top floor of Baitul Rahmah was subsequently
occupied by the family of Tengku Zaira, the daugh-
ter of Raja Norshida binti Raja Harun Al-Rashid.
Its lower floor was previously occupied by families
of Raja Dhazlan, Raja Hanizah, Raja Amran and
Raja Nor Hizayah – and currently by the family of
Raja Mariam Ruzi.

Also known as Rumah Hilir

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 679
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Che Rahmah (First wife Mixture of Malay and Acheh archi- Its architecture was described as being identical to Baitul Beautifully carved with
of Raja Harun Al Rashid) tecture with an essence of a Royal Aman. highly skill of traditional
Symmetrical building with high volume stair entrance in the carving with tunjuk langit
palace. middle of the house. (sky pointer) at every point
Carving fascia board with punch through technique at the of pyramid and pitched
eaves seems like lace pattern with floral ornamentation. roof showed some assence
Carving ventilation board with punch through technique of royal palace that can be
Tunjuk langit (sky pointer) with steel cast ornamentation seen from afar.
From the facade, there are two dutch gable roof with one
tiered pyramid roof at the center consist a small room at the
highest floor level.
There is a small attic room under the tiered pyramidal roof.

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

680 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Baitul Aman, 1911

Building on map
Figure 3. : Building on map shown in black mark

Baitul Aman was another mansion of Raja
Harun Al Rashid ibni Almarhum Sultan Idris I,
and was built for his second wife, Che Sareah binti
Dato Ahmad, otherwise known as Che Ah, which
is a good friend of Che Rahmah.

Located at Jalan Raja Muda, the name of Figure 3. : Illustration of the Baitul Aman before it was destroyed in a fire, by Author
the mansion was named after Raja Aman Shah
(later Captain in the FMSVF), the eldest son of
Raja Harun Al Rashid and Che Sareah.
Baitul Aman became unoccupied in later
years and was sadly destroyed in a fire in 2006.

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 681
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

entrance

Ground Floor

entrance F igure 3. : BdeamituisleA, mbyaSneimn bitasnegmKputyaldaerelict state prior to its fiery

FMitshigrpaeujeierrdemlaa3yne.endrasZn:tutTilmryhaeibinnewsir,teasDdtllrdeeunidncatginundr(teaIhIiweUs iilMtnihv)iBncaagirtavurilneRagaso,hnbmythaNeh foairnosrdt HfBloaaonitriu.tlaI,tAAimsbaadnul First Floor

FAibgduurel M3.ajid: OanridgiZnuarlafilnoio,rDpelannanof(IBIUaiMtul)Aman, by Noor Hanita,

Entrance to the staircase behind the wedding stage
that lead to the attic room under the tiered pyra-
midal roof.

Figure 3. : TsheeenrefmroaminJastlrauncRtuarjea oMfuthdea,twbyoSmemaibnarnogofKsusatillal can be

Figure 3. : The leftover structures of Baitul Aman that was burned in 2006 abandoned and already full with trees and bushes, by Author.
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682 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Baitul Aman, 1911- Malay Traditional Style

Baitul Aman 1911 Baitul Aman was another mansion of Raja Kechil Royal Residential Tuan Haji Suffian
Sulong, Raja Harun Al Rashid ibni Almarhum Sultan
Idris I, and was built for his second wife, Che Sareah
binti Dato Ahmad, otherwise known as Che Ah
Was named after Raja Aman Shah, the eldest son of
Raja Harun Al Rashid and Che Sareah
Che’ Ah passed away on in the same year, in 1926.
Coinicidentally, the big flood of 1926 in Kuala was
known amongst family as ‘Bah Che’ Ah‘.
Baitul Aman became unoccupied in later years and
was sadly destroyed in a fire in 2006.
Interestingly, Che Ah was a good friend to the first
wife of Raja Harun Al Rashid, Che Mah.
Also known as Rumah Darat

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 683
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Che Sareah binti Dato Mixture of Malay and Acheh archi- Its architecture was described as being identical to Baitul Rah- Beautifully carved with
Ahmad (Second wife of tecture with an essence of a Royal mah. highly skill of traditional
Raja Harun Al Rashid) palace. Symmetrical building with high volume stair entrance in the carving with tunjuk langit
middle of the house. (sky pointer) at every point
Carving fascia board with punch through technique at the of pyramid and pitched
eaves seems like lace pattern with floral ornamentation. roof showed some assence
of royal palace that can be
seen from afar.

Carving ventilation board with punch through technique

Tunjuk langit (sky pointer) with steel cast ornamentation

From the facade, there are two dutch gable roof with one
tiered pyramid roof at the center consist a small room at the
highest floor level.

There is a small attic room under the tiered pyramidal roof.

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

684 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Baitul Anor, 1912

Building on map
Figure 3.1. Building on map shown in black mark

Baitul Anor was built by the master craftsman and Figure 3. : Old Mansion of Baitul Anor just beside of Ubudiah Mosque, 2015, by Author
builder Tuan Haji Suffian (sometimes referred to as
Tukang Suffian), under the instructions of Raja Ke-
chil Sulong Harun Al Rashid for his third wife, Raja
Mentera binti Raja Sir Chulan. His two other wife,
Puan Zaharatul Ain and Puan Teh also lived here.

MALAY TRADITIONAL STYLE. The design FbyigAurueth3o. r : Elevated concrete platform that seems like a fortress, Fthigeuernetr3a.nce: Eonxttehnedgedrofulonodrfaloreoar,obnytAhuetfhirosrt floor act as a roof for
of Baitul Anort is a mixture of Malay traditional
and colonial architecture. A very different design
compared to Baitul Rahmah and Baitul Aman,
which is Baitul Anor has a central part of the upper
level extended forward as if to form a roofed lobby
at the bottom as a warming entrance.

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 685
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

sZFtiuagiruracrieansi3e,.Dtoen:thEaenlefv(irIasItUtiofMlnoo)orf,BbayitNuol oArnHoranwiittah, AthbedourliMginajaildcaonndcrete Ground Floor

Ground Floor First Floor cFMoiganujcirdreeat3en.dstaZ:iurRcreaansinediei,nrDerdeonnilatlnuos(ftIrtIhaUteiMohno)uosfet,hbeyANboitourl HAnanoirtaw,iAthbtdhuel
ZpFaiugtrtuaerirenni3,o.Dnetn:haeDnfrr(aoIwnIUitngMgab)olne,BbayitNuloAornHorasnhitoaw, eAdbtdhuel uMseajoidf saunndburst
First Floor FHiagnuirtea,3A. bd:uElxMteanjdidedanadndZuchraainngi,eDd eflnoaonr (pIlIaUnMin)1920, Noor

MFigaujirdea3n.d Z:uSriaminpil,eDpelannanla(yIoIuUtMin)1912, by Noor Hanita, Abdul In 1920, major changes took place with the main stair
(tangga batu) case demolished and a brick stair case
In 1912, the house starts with a simple plan layout with timber columns and carvings were added on at
that consist of the veranda, four bed rooms in main porch to the patio. The inner staircase were removed
house (rumah ibu) and kitchen (dapur) on first floor to the audience hall (balai keramaian) .The rooftop
and halls (balai) on the ground floor. The halls are and balcony was also demolished which results the
bordered with half wall on its perimeter. Notice at changes to the audience hall (balai keramaian). Au-
this time there was a grand staircase linking straight dience hall (balai keramaian) was enclosed by half
to the first floor. timber and half brick wall. On the first floor, the two
front bedrooms were demolished, and became a
wide verandah (serambi). The daughters’ and master
bedrooms are provided with private staircase to the
bathroom in the ground floor.

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686 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Baitul Anor, 1912

The existing building only has traces of the
previous construction of the sotoh. The sotoh was
built using concrete platform with wrought iron
staircase that has been removed.

Timber support that was used to carry the FAiugtuhroer3. : Current condition after sotoh has been removed, by First Floor
load of the sotoh has resulted to difficulties in
maintaining the element. The sotoh was used as an FCDiuegnsutaronem3(sI.IaUre:MTC)hoenPdluacnteodf,tbhye NFiorostrFHloaonritWa, hAebrdeuMl MararjiiadgeanredlaZteudraini,
observation deck for the crown prince, where he
usually went up to look at the surrounding areas.

HtFhiagenuhirtoeau,3sA.ebodn:uOcl orMingacijrniedatleasnpodltaotZhfousrrtmariunicint,uDrreeennadatentrhe(edIIriUillgMuhst)traantdiolne,ftbsyidNeosoorf FNiogourreH3a.nita: ,WArboduuglhMt iarjoind astnadirZcausreaiinnit,hDeemnaidnd(lIeIUofMth)e sotoh, by FR(IiaIgUjuaMrRea)3s.hid:aThh, ebywNedodoirnHg adnaiitsai,nABbadiutul lMAanjiodr afonrdtZhuerwaiendid, iDnegnoafn

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 687
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Figure 3. : Baitul Anor in Arabic font in between of the timber lattice ventilation

Figure 3. : Narrow stair from the ground floor, by Author

bFeigeunrues3e.d fo: rCtohnecwrehteolbeaalruesateor,f hthaelfgwroalulncdonflcoroetre, bayndAucothnocrrete floor

Figure 3. : Timber lattice at most of the top openings from the Figure 3. : Symmetrical building with the elevated fortress in the middle, by Author
colonial style, by Author

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688 THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Baitul Anor, 1912- Malay Traditional Style

Baitul Anor 1912 Built by the master craftsman and builder Tuan Haji Royal residential Tuan Haji Suffian
Suffian with a simple plan layout for the third wife
of Raja Harun Al Rashid, Raja Mentera binti Raja Sir
Chulan

Baitul Anor was named after Raja Anor Shah, the el-
dest son of Raja Harun Al Rashid and Raja Mentera
binti Raja Sir Chulan.

Two other wife of Raja Harun Al Rashid, Puan Za-
haratul Ain and Puan Teh also lived here.

1915 The house expands together with the number of
family members. There were two more rooms added
on ground floor with two bathrooms.

1920 major changes took place with the main stair (tangga
batu) case demolished.

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 689
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Raja Mentera binti Raja Mixture of Malay and colonial archi- one dutch gable roof at the center and the floor area is getting The house looks very grand
Sir Chulan (Third wife of tecture with and essence of a Royal bigger as from front to the middle of the roof. with the grand stair case
palace. on the fortress that gives
Raja Harun Al Rashid) entral part of the upper level extended forward as if to form a the building an impressive

roofed lobby at the bottom as a warming entrance. exterior and the illusion of
being taller.
Decorative timber fascia

Elevated concrete platform in front of the house which seemed
like a fortress.

Kitchen of Baitul Anor located far at the back, and it was very
airy, courtesy of the house design which allowed natural venti-
lation.

The Grand Staircase. The straight flight staircase is wider
down below and narrower to the top.

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Masjid Ubudiah, 1917

Building on map
Figure 3.1. Building on map shown in black mark

The Ubudiah Mosque is one of the most
beautiful mosques in Malaysia. The word “ubudiah”
means “to yield oneself to the will of Allah”. It was
the name chosen by the 28th Sultan of Perak, Sultan
Idris Murshidul Adzam Shah I when he decided to
build the mosque at Bukit Chandan in 1911. He was
convalescing in Port Dickson, and there, he made a
vow to build a magnificent mosque as thanksgiving
for recovery from the ailment that plagued him.
The construction of the mosque was inter-
rupted once when two elephants belonging to the
sultan’s and Raja Chulan were fighting and ran over
and damaged the imported Italian marble titles. . This
imposing structure is now a symbol of great pride to
all Muslims in the state of Perak.

Figure 3.1. : Sky view of Masjid Ubudiah, by KM Visuals Photographer

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INDO-SARACENIC STYLE. The design of the Figure 3.1. : The keyhole arches that are circular and Figure 3.1. : The red blood marble on the column of the main entrance, by Author
palace is based on the Indo - Saracenic architecture, wider diameter at the verandah
with it’s unique dome structure in the shape of large The arches at the entrance were carved with
and small onions. The Masjid Ubudiah is thought by Islamic geometric pattern. The tall columns aligned
many to be the most beautiful mosque in Malaysia. with the main gate arch create an extra vagant feel-
The interior, with its cool marble courtyards is as ing. However on the real building on site, despite of
stunning as the exterior. It was designed by Arthur having the marble carved, the marbles were seen to
Hubback who also designed the old KL railway sta- be aligned to create a pattern on top of the arch of
tion and many other famous landmarks. the main gate.
In 1993, the State Public Works Department As observed, almost the whole exterior of the
was given the task of increasing the capacity of the mosque was laid with marbles, especially on the wall
mosque. This was done by building extensions at and columns. The marbles were imported from Italy.
the sides and staff rooms and wash rooms were also Its natural colour makes the façade of the mosque
added at the back. It took 2 years at a cost of RM looks distinctive and luxurious.
2.9 million. Throughout construction, all precautions The banding of Italian marble is Moorish in
were taken to preserve the Moorish character of the design. The type of marble that use at the column
building and upon completion the mosque could ac- and wall are different. As example, on the main gate
commodate 2,300 people at any one time. of the Masjid Ubudiah, Kuala Kangsar, it uses the
hiqh quality red blood marble meanwhile, at the col- Figure 3.1. : The pointed and smaller diameter of the arch which
Figure 3.1. : Original floor plan only the octagon umn of the veranda they use the brick red marble. situated at the hallway of the entrance, by Nur’aini
Adibah

The marble of great quality is banded at the main
area where the attraction of the visitor is.

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Masjid Ubudiah, 1917

Figure 3. During delayed construction, 1913 Figure 3. : Construction competed in 1917 , by National Archive Figure 3. : Elephant procession by Ubudiah Mosque, by National Archive

Hence, the British adopted some of the el- The chatris of the Masjid Ubudiah was in- Figure 3. : The unique of octagon shape ceiling dome, by Author
ements of building design from India to Malaya to fluenced by the the Mughal-Gothic architectureitself.
introduce a new outlook of mosque architecture dif- The design actually originated from the Hindu archi-
ferent from the previous mosque designs, which are tecture and absorbed into the Mughal-Gothic archi-
made from timber structures. tecture. The main dome of the Masjid Ubudiah was
This particular style differs from other ordi- surrounded by the small chatris.
nary mosques as it portrays distinctive architectural The arches of the Masjid Ubudiah, Kuala
features significantly due to its unique dome struc- Kangsar are generally keyhole-shaped. They were
ture in the shape of large and small onions, symmet- influenced by the typical Moorish architecture that
rical in design with a central dome of imposing di- followed the characteristic of the dome itself
mension, multitude use of tall spires and surrounded which is bulbous and semicircular shape. For the
with slender key hole arches. interior part, the size and the shape of the arches are
varied. Those that located at the verandah are
wider and larger in diameter.

The composition and arrangement of the THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 693
mosque are in great balanced proportion, which suc- EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN
cessfully exhibits the “great beauty” as per wish by the
late Sultan Idris Murshidul Al-Adzam Shah. Figure 3.1. The narrow staircaseleading up to the
balcony of the minaret, by Author
Masjid Ubudiah has been built for 95 years,
been severally renovated and emendated throughout
all these years, and it is still strongly standing on top
of the Bukit Chandan. Due to the well maintained by
the Perak government and authorities, Masjid Ubudi-
ah is still in good shape and not much cracks or any
demolition occurs. The architecture of the mosque is
well pre served by the government and the mosque
authority itself.

Figure 3. : The entrance details of the Masjid Ubudiah, by
Nur’aini Adibah

Figure 3. : Repeatative element of key hole arches and the alternate layers of materials on the minaret’s tower really blend with the golden dome
DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

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EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Masjid Ubudiah, 1917

Figure 3. : Mihrab, the natural patterns of the Italian marble
can be clearly seen.

Figure 3. : Floor plan of Masjid Ubudiah, by Nur’aini Adibah

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EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Figure 3. : Mimbar Figure 3. : Main prayer hall with octagon ceiling dome, by Author

Figure 3. : Rear elevation of Masjid Ubudiah, by Nur’aini Adibah Figure 3. : Front elevation of Masjid Ubudiah, by Nur’aini Adibah
DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

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EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Masjid Ubudiah, 1917 - Indo - Saracenic Style

Masjid Ubudiah 1911 Sultan Idris Murshidul’adzam Shah I vowed that he Royal Mosque Arthur Benison Hubback
will build a mosque at Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kang-
sar,Perak if he recovered from his illness.

1913 Construction began in 1913 but it was abandoned
during the First World War. It was also delayed when
the then crown prince’s elephant walked over and
cracked the imported Italian marble floor.

1917 The mosque was officially declared open by the 29th
Perak Sultan, Sultan Abdul Jalil

1993 After 76 years of operation, the Masjid Ubudiah had
to undergo renovation and emendation due to the
need for additional spaces and to enhance or repair
the architectural value and historical value of the
mosque. The emendation was done by the local ar-
chitect and engineer

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EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Sultan Idris Murshid- North Indian style Its unique dome structure in the shape of large and small onions Its natural colour makes the
ul’adzam Shah I, the 28th Mughal-Gothic architecture or simi-
lar with Moorish style Symmetrical in design with a central dome of imposing dimen- façade of the mosque looks
Sultan of Perak. Indo-Saracenic Revival architectural sion, multitude use of tall spires and surrounded with slender distinctive and luxurious
style favored in Victorian Britain.
horseshoe shape arches. Even from afar, the bulbous

The main dome of the Masjid Ubudiah was surrounded by the domes loomed over the
small chatris. The total dome and the tower is said to take the horizon
title after order person - General of the General People Ampat,
The Great de-eight and People of Sixteen Very powerful iconic
building stands proudly
The arches at the entrance were carved with Islamic geometric and majestically in Kuala
pattern Kangsar, with its golden
dome and minarets creating
almost the whole exterior of the mosque was laid with marbles, a spellbinding sight, from
especially on the wall and columns near and afar.

Originally an octagon shape before amendment. The floor plan
was unique and unusual for the typical mosque in Malaysia

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE | FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT | UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA

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EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

SMK Raja Perempuan Kelsom, 1922

Building on map Figure 3. : Decorative cornice on all arches, openings and walls from Victorian style, by Author
Figure 3.1. Building on map shown in black mark

SMK Raja Perempuan Kelsom is a second-
ary school girl which is first constructed in 1905 as
a King’s Pavilion and then been adaptive reused into
a school named as SMK Raja Perempuan Kelsom in
1922.

The strategic site location situated on the hill
top of the Bukit Kerajaan near Kangsar River proved
that it used to be a strategic place for British Resi-
dents to take control of Bukit Chandan and Sultan
of Perak since 1885.

Figure 3. : Named as King’s Pavilion in 1905 before it’s been adaptive reused as a school, by Author

THE ROYAL TOWN OF KUALA KANGSAR: UNVEILING ITS CHARMS 699
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Figure 3. : Decorative columns in the interior area

tFsheigaesuborineg.g3Ie.nsttfh:loeSotpadiicritcnuars1ee9st2hh6oa,twbayeldsAotuhatachttoaarslewvaetlemr gaarkuegde odnurtihnegsrtaaiinryabout Fusigeudraelo3n. g t:hseemhailclwiracylevaerrcahndwaihth, bdyecAourtahtiovre cornice repeatedly

ART-DECO STYLE. On the way to Bukit Can- Other than the school building, the staircase
dan after the bridge of Sungai Kangsar, seems a leading to the school fields has also its own history.
majestic colonial building perched on the hillside. The staircase acts as a water gauge during the rainy
The design of the pavilion is a mixed of Art-deco season. If the water rises above certain level, people
architecture and Victorian Architecture. On the top within the vicinity need to be evacuated to higher
floor of the main building there is a tower that can ground.
review the entire town of Kuala Kangsar, Perak
Figure 3. : Square see view tower that can view the fascinating include a fascinating view of the Sg. Perak and the
Perak River and Kangsar River, by Author Sg. Kangsar.

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SMK Raja Perempuan Kelsom, 1922 - Victorian Style

Rumah Che’ Midah 1876 Che’ Midah originally lived at the high ground land Private residence Arthur Benison Hubback
Residence of British Resident with half brick and half timber building

King’s Pavillion 1885 The house was taken over by British Resident and It’s British Residence
Mathodist Girl’s School been demolished three times to satisfy the tastes of
Government English Girl’s every British Resident who live in it
School
Sekolah Menengah Raja Perem- 1905 Eventually been demolished for the last time and School
puan Kelsom (current) build a new building known as the King’s Pavillion

1949 The building was opened as a school for girl students

1954 The school was taken over by the government from Government School
Methodist.

1970 Converted into a secondary school girl called Sekolah
Raja Perempuan Kalsum

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EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Long Hamidah Binti Victorian Architecture mixed with On the top floor of the main building there is a tower that can Located at the high ground
Dato Sri Maharaja Lela Malay traditional Architecture with review the entire town of Kuala Kangsar, Perak include a fasci- level near the Sungai Kang-
Itam Muhammad Amin / some influence of Colonial style nating view of the Sg. Perak and the Sg. Kangsar. sar with colonial appearance
Che’ Midah Concrete balusters along the hallway verandah. but a bit far away from the
Semicircle arch windows and opening main road showed how
Bay windows British still want to control
the sultanate power at that
time with a certain distance.

The staircase acts as a water gauge during the rainy season. If
the water rises above certain level, people within the vicinity
need to be evacuated to higher ground.

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Madrasah Idrisiah, 1922

1
3

24

Building on map

Figure 3.1. Building on map shown in black mark

Across the street from Ubudiah Mosque is Figure 3. : Picture showed the 4 oldest buildings in the Madrasah Idirisiah that already 93 years old now, by Madrasah Idrisiah
another school, this one a religious institution, Ma- Figure 3. : Madrasah Idirisiah before added covered walkway, by Madrasah Idrisiah
drasah Idrisiah, which was built around the same
time as the mosque to provide an education for the
poor based on Islam. Before the madrasah was given
a name, it was mostly known as Madrasah Mariah,
which was an institution providing early childhood
education to orphaned girls in Perak. During the
colonial era, it used to be the British administrative
canter to control the sultanate power at that time.
Madrasah Idrisiah is named after the late Sul-
tan Idris Murshidul’adzam Shah I, who is the found-
er of the school and the asset waqf around Kuala
Kangsar.

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Figure 3. : The exterior view clearly define the past and present building structures, by Author Figure 3. : Semi circle arch on top of all openings repeatedly used along the verandah walkway

The school was built in the reign of his son, Figure 3. : Horizontal timber planks walls Figure 3. : Original timber door with glass view still in use
Sultan Iskandar Qaddasallah in 1922 (1342 hijri) Figure 3. : Steeply pitched octagonal roof, by Author
in collaboration with Professor Tuan Sheikh Haji madrasah, one main building, two teachers resi-
Nawawi bin Haji Tahir. Madrasah is known as the dence and one ‘round house’ which is now used by
first religious institution to use the school system students.
and the school lodge until the end of the 1970s. The round house has a lot of history and
Madrasah increasingly dim in the 1970s was been works of art are unique with the mixed architec-
revived in 1985 with word of the Sultan of Perak, ture of Dutch Colonial and Malay Traditional. The
Sultan Azlan Shah, grandson of the late Sultan Idris. stickwork on the porch bracket to the hollow circle
DUTCH COLONIAL STYLE. Madrasah Idrisiah steel columns along the porch beutify the building
influenced by the mixed Dutch Colonial architec- facade.
ture and Malay Traditional architecture. It showed
clearly at the octagon building with octagonal roof
at the frontage area with decorative fascia board-
from traditional malay architecture along the
roof. There are four 93 years old building in the

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Madrasah Idrisiah, 1922 - Dutch Colonial Style

Madrasah Mariah 1876 Before the madrasah was given a name, it was Administrative -
mostly known as Madrasah Mariah, which was an
British government institution providing early childhood education to
administrative center orphaned girls in Perak
Madrasah Idrisiah
1917 Used to be the British administrative canter to con- Childhood institution
trol the sultanate power at that time

1922 Sultan Idris was also well-known for his concern for Religious School
Islam. It was the first religious school in the state
of Perak Darul Ridzuan located opposite of the
Ubudiah Mosque

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EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN

Tuan Sheikh Haji Nawawi Colonial Dutch Style mixed with Octagon building with steeply pitched octagonal roof at the The façade and building
bin Hj Md. Tahir malay traditional architecture frontage area from Dutch architecture with decorative fascia material still remained with
from traditional malay architecture timber planks which is a
Islamic architecture Siries of verandah and porch areas. proof that it is a heritage
Semi circle arches on top of windows and doors. building with the original
Mixed material of half brick and half timber structure. concept of sekolah pondok
Stickwork at porch bracket eaves or madrasah.

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Istana Kenangan, 1928

Building on map
Figure 3. : Building on map shown in black mark

Also known as Istana Lembah and Istana Figure 3. : Istana Kenangan 2015, by Author Istana Sri Sayong, was almost swept away, a deci-
Tepas, Istana Kenangan is a short distance from sion was made to built a new palace that is on high-
Istana Iskandariah and the Ubudiah Mosque. It is two storeys high with the top floor con- er ground. Istana Kenangan was built as a tempo-
It was built in 1926 for Sultan Iskandar sisting of the bedchamber, family bedrooms and rary mausoleum for the late Duli Yang Maha Mulia
Shah by the Malay carpenter Haji Suffian from a dining hall. The ground floor was once used as Sultan Iskandar Shah (Marhum Kadasallah), while
Bukit Mertajam, with the assistance of his sons the official royal office where its original floor was awaiting the completion of Istana Iskandariah.
Zainal Abidin and Ismail. made out of solid wood.
The palace was previously known as the In the big Flood 1926, the original palace,
Valley Palace due to its location. The palace had
been the official residence between 1931 and 1933.
However, upon completion of Istana Iskandariah,
the Istana Kenangan was used to host royal recep-
tions and where the palace guests stayed.