The Importance of Scientific Tests In Masonry Heritage Building Conservation In Malaysia

School of Housing, Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia

Abstract

Since the Portuguese era in Malacca in the 16^th century, many authentic colonial heritage buildings were built in Malacca and other parts of Malaysia, most of which were masonry structural buildings. After Melaka and George Town received recognition from UNESCO as World Heritage Sites on 7^th July 2008, heritage building conservation in Malaysia has attracted serious attention from various parties. Since the establishment of the National Heritage Department under the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645) on 1 March 2006, the implementation of scientific tests in heritage building conservation practice in Malaysia has been encouraged and recommended by the Department. However, scientific tests are normally only conducted in conservation works of National Heritage buildings and some Category I heritage buildings, but not made compulsory for all heritage buildings conservation projects in Malaysia. This paper is based on a research carried out to study the scientific tests conducted in masonry heritage building as part of conservation practice in Malaysia. The research findings revealed that scientific tests such as X-ray fluorescence test, ion chromatography test, moisture test and Schmidt hammer rebound test are important for masonry heritage building conservation in Malaysia. The basic guidelines to conduct the scientific tests derived from the research findings will be able to enhance the current practice in conserving masonry heritage buildings in Malaysia.