Developing a structured framework for historical research in heritage building conservation: a case study of Perak State

The core concepts of conservation in Malaysia are rooted in the principles of conservation and documenting. By complying to these principles, it leads to the beginning of conservation efforts through the conduction of historical research in the preliminary study, which ultimately results in an initial study report. Historical research is essential to acknowledge the authenticity and significance values of a heritage building as according to Article 6 of the Burra Charter, "the cultural significance of a place and other issues affecting its future are best understood by a sequence of collecting and analysing information before making decisions". Performing a historical study of the place and its extent, as well as looking into its history, usage, associations, and materials can help to comprehend its significant values, which will eventually assist in determine what kind of conservation approach should be undertaken. It is identified that unstructured process and procedures in conducting historical research are caused by no specific guidance and precise instructions, based on this core issue, three objectives are developed, firstly is to identify determinant aspects of in historical research for heritage building conservation, to analyse the factors considered in selection of historical research evidence for conservation of heritage building and lastly is to develop historical research documentation guidance for conservation work. This study relies on data acquired through a literature review, a survey using questionnaire, and a site assessment cum with content analysis which was conducted at Perak state; Bangunan Suluh Budiman and Istana Kenangan.