Methods of Documentation and Measured Drawings

METHODS OF DOCUMENTATION AND MEASURED DRAWINGS
(ARC 60305)
SYARIKAT WAH SANG BROTHERS, KLANG
TUTOR: DR. SUCHARITA SRIRANGAM

華
生
鐘
錶
Syarikat Wah Sang Brothers

Figure 1.1 Photo of Wah Sang Brothers watch shop. (Photo source: Syafiq Deen)

This report is submitted for the module ARC60305 Methods of Documentation and Measured Drawings, to School of Architecture,
Building & Design of Taylor’s University to obtain 5 credits for Practicum 1.
It is a group effort by:
Ng Lek Yuen 0324010
Ng Pui Yuan 0324785
Tan Wei Sen 0324564
Khoo Yung Keat 0324688
Muhammad Ros Syaznaim 0324757
Lindsay Lim Siew Cheng 0326844
Sak Kar Wai (Ryan) 0326525
Wong Chee Fon 0327220
Ong Kar Chun 0326487
Lissa Lai Jing Ying 0326465
Tan Zi Wen (Cecilia) 0327759
Vanessa Chai Pei Yi 0327887
Phua Vey Suanne (Tiffany) 0327864
Goretty Lee Pey Shy 0326837
Ahmad Syafiq Deen 0325116
Lim Janzen 0331320
Wajeeha Khan 0328484
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architecture
January 2018
Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus
DECLARATION OF SUBMISSION
i
Supervised by:
Dr. Sucharita Srirangam

II
Our group would like to express our utmost appreciation to the following individuals who have actively assisted the team throughout
the journey of this module.
First, we would like to thank Mr. Adib as our programme director and Mr. Koh who is our module coordinator, for carefully designing
the module to be as beneficial as it is to our learning development. We have indeed gained a lot of experiences over the 8 weeks time.
Next, we would like to express our gratitude towards Dr. Sucharita Srirangam, our tutor for this module, for her support and guidance
throughout the site visit, as well as advise on methods of measuring and documenting the buildings accurately and efficiently.
We would like to thank Klang Municipal Council for giving us a substantial amount for information for the research and the Royal Klang
Gallery for organising heritage walks that gave an in depth understanding of the historical and cultural value of Klang which eased the
research process. Also we would to show our gratitude to Mr. Fai who shared generously shared his knowledge and experience about
Klang. Finally, a big thank you to the friendly owners of the shop, Mr Lee Lai Choy and Mr Robert Lee Hon Wai, who allowed us to
conduct measuring activities and participated in the interviews throughout our site visit despite it being the midst of their business
hours. Without them we would not be able to gather accurate and specific info within the allocated time.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

III
This following report is authored by a group of 17 architecture students from Taylor’s University in completion of the Methods of
Documentation and Measured Drawings module. In which the module provides the learning experience of documenting, analysing
and measuring a shop house in Klang named, Wah Sang Brothers. The consecutive topics in the report involves data collection of
historical background, poetical and cultural understanding, visual documentation and building measurements that is conducted
during a period of 5 days on site. Wah Sang Brothers is a simple yet intrigue shop house, it’s way of life in the shop house provides
us the understanding of both construction and cultural components. Hence, it provides a great platform for architecture students
to dive into the fundamental understanding of all aspects. Therefore, the purpose of the report is to find the essence and
significance of the building.
This research is to seek the significance of the building. There is a need in the context of Klang to
conserve the history in order to enhance the sense of place. Therefore this research will focus in
finding the significance relevant to the building to make the case of conservation.
ABSTRACT

IV
The consecutive topic in this report, will be chapters categorised conceptually. The topics are designed and organised in a way to
enhance the perception of readers towards Wah Sang brothers and it’s context. By looking at Klang in a bigger picture to focusing
into smaller part of Klang and then to Wah Sang brothers, this helps readers to interconnect the relationship between a simple shop
lot to its surrounding.
CHAPTER 1: Introduction, introduces the aims and objective of the project and explains a proper transition of how we have
thoroughly planned and organised our work from the start till the very last pages of the report as a team. It also demonstrates the
methods of conducts that we have used to prepare this report, in which includes research, literature, interviews, model-making,
equipments, and etc. This also includes the challenges that we have to go through while producing this report.
CHAPTER 2: Historical Background, records the growth of Klang by looking at its origin, country, state and city. This chapter
cultivates the fundamental history and understanding of the location from beginning till present times. It discusses the different ruling
power from time to time and further understand the crucial events that has taken place in Klang. Moreover, this chapter introduces
the many iconic locations or building situated in Klang that has impacted the lifestyle and history itself.
CHAPTER 3: Contextual Elaboration, discusses three main subjects that inter collides with each other. Firstly, a brief
understanding of how different architectural styles has influenced Klang in their iconic buildings will be explained. Then it will
continue to discuss about how the shophouses in Klang is consequently influenced by the styles of architecture that will result in an
evolution of styles in variety being preserved. Secondly, the topic continues to dive into a smaller scale that is related to our site and
explains the different types of streets in Klang. Lastly, it focuses on Jalan Stesen, in which is where Wah Sang brothers is located
and illustrates the various events that has happened over the past hundred over years. Having it’s great reputation as the oldest
street in Klang, this topic is a stepping stone to understanding the history and cultural aspects that the street upholds. This will
progress to how the street is interconnected to Wah Sang brothers and its social aspect.
INTRODUCTION TO CHAPTERS

CHAPTER 4: Wah Sang Brothers, will focus on portraying the relationship and details of every part of the shophouse. From the
growth of the business to the architectural style of the shophouse and to the interior spatial articulation, it will also discuss the
diverse intangible factors through the spaces by using user’s experience and it’s 5 senses. Moreover, this topics includes our
perception from our thorough research and understanding of the significance of the shophouse. This moves into an analysis of how
flexibility and rigidity is brought together to explain the essence of the shophouse.
V
CHAPTER 5: Construction method, materials and details, discusses the building components that encompasses the important
structural aspects of the shop house. It also includes the types of material use and details of the shop house that affects its context
and user space. The topics will be approached in relation to the buildings context and history.
CHAPTER 6: Current Conditions , discusses the building components that encompasses the important structural aspects of the
shop house. It also includes the types of material use and details of the shop house that affects its context and user space. The
topics will be approached in relation to the buildings context and history.
CHAPTER 7: Drawings + Photo book, will convey information about the building through illustrations of digital drawing. A photo
section will also be provided to enhance the visual interpretation of the site context and shophouse.
CHAPTER 8: Conclusion and Reflection, discusses the building components that encompasses the important structural
aspects of the shop house. It also includes the types of material use and details of the shop house that affects its context and
user space. The topics will be approached in relation to the buildings context and history.

VI
LIST OF DIAGRAMS AND FIGURES
CHAPTER 1
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 1.1: Photo of Wah Sang Brothers watch shop. ii
Source: Syafiq, 2018
Figure 1.2: Group Structure and Organization. 3
Source: Lindsay, 2018
Figure 1.3: Chart showing post-site, pre-site & during site Subgroup Division. 4
Figure 1.4: Schedule Timeline. 5
Source: Ng, 2018
Figure 1.5: 3-5 Metres Measuring tool. 6
Source: Charlies, 2016
Figure 1.6: Laser Distance Measurement tool. 6
Source: Johnson, 2018
Figure 1.7: 30 Metre Nylon measuring tape. 7
Source: Khoo, 2018
Figure 1.8: Ladder. 7
Source: Lowe, 2012
Figure 1.9: Ruler. 7
Source: Ginifab, 2016

VII
CHAPTER 1
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 1.10: DSLR Camera and Tripod. 7
Source: Khoo, 2018
Figure 1.11: Plumb bob. 8
Source: Khoo, 2018
Figure 1.12: Yarn thread. 8
Source: Tye, 2012
Figure 1.13: Markers. 8
Source: Le, 2013
Figure 1.14: Chalk. 8
Source: Le, 2013
Figure 1.15: Masking tapes. 8
Source: Le, 2013
Figure 1.16: Books used for reference. 9
Source: Lissa, 2018
Figure 1.17: Photo showing the Cultural and Heritage Walk. 10
Source: Measured Drawings Klang Group, 2018
Figure 1.18: An interview process with the owner. 10

VIII
CHAPTER 2
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 2.1: Map locating Malaysia as indicated in red. 16
Source: Lissa, 2018
Figure 2.2: The land of Kuala Selangor. 17
Source: Klein, 2011
Figure 2.3: Pie Chart showing Population of Selangor. 18
Source: Cecilia, 2018
Figure 2.4: Klang Bell dated 200 B.C. 19
Source: Wikipedia, 2018
Figure 2.5: Raja Abdul Samad in Selangor. 19
Source: Tye, 2011
Figure 2.6: Arms of His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor. 21
Source: Wikipedia,2018
Figure 2.7: Celebes Island. 21
Source: Britannica, 2018
Figure 2.8: Daeng Merewah. 22
Source: Budaya Indonesia, 2014
Figure 2.9: Ptolemy. 23

IX
CHAPTER 2
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 2.10: Klang Municipal Council Logo. 24
Source: MP Klang, 2018
Figure 2.11: Demography of Klang. 24
Source: Lissa, 2018
Figure 2.12: Sultan of Selangor. 25
Source: Malaysia monarchy, 2018
Figure 2.13: The watch gifted to Mr. Lee Lai Choy from Sultan Salahuddin. 25
Figure 2.14: Port Klang as major industries areas. 28
Source: Tye, 2012
Figure 2.15: Port Klang as the major role in Klang’s economy. 28
Source: Tye, 2012
Figure 2.16: Gedung Raja Abdullah. 29
Figure 2.17: Our Lady of Lourdes Church. 29
Source: Ramber and Wander, 2016
Figure 2.18: Galeri Diraja Sultan Abdul Aziz. 30

X
CHAPTER 2
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 2.19: Kota Raja Fire & Rescue station. 30
Figure 2.20: Street of Little India. 31
Figure 2.21: India Muslim Tengku Kelana mosque. 31
Figure 2.22: Chartered Bank building. 32
Source: CNB, 2013
Figure 2.23: Sultan Suleiman Royal mosque. 32
Figure 2.24: Klang Convent school. 33
Figure 2.25: Alam Shah palace. 33
Figure 3.1: The early attap house settlement. 36
CHAPTER 3

XI
CHAPTER 3
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 3.2: New building styles emerges time to time since Straits Settlements in Malaysia. 36
Figure 3.3: Klang variety of architecture styles that each was influenced from. 37
Figure 3.4: The famous Indian streets, good example of strong cultural influence in Klang. 37
Figure 3.5: The Sultan Alam Shah Palace, main sultanate influence in Klang. 37
Figure 3.6: The map of Heritage Site of Klang City showing the different buildings of different architecture style. 38
Source: Lissa, 2018
Figure 3.7: The simple outblock Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal gallery allows it to be utilised for many purposes. 39
Figure 3.8: A symmetrical yet rich in ornamental building reflecting on its Sultanate influence. 40
Figure 3.9: The golden dome of Sultan Alam Shah palace provides a impression of royalty. 40
Figure 3.10: The influential European outlook. 41

XII
CHAPTER 3
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 3.11: The climatic adapted building provides practical and simple aesthetics. 41
Figure 3.12: Exterior of Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. 42
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.13: Interior of Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. 42
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.14: The unique Masjid India Muslim Tengku Kelana mosque design is a attraction in Klang. 43
Figure 3.15: The Gopuran is the main monument of the temple. 43
Figure 3.16: The first Victorian building in Malaysia. 44
Figure 3.17: The shophouses. 45
Figure 3.18: Shophouses serves for economic purposes. 45
Figure 3.19: The Kopitiam is a common shophouses business. 46

XIII
CHAPTER 3
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 3.20: The Residential floor. 46
Figure 3.21: The Back alley. 46
Figure 3.22: The mining workers originally from China. 47
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.23: Early shophouse development for Chinese immigrants. 47
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.24: The early urban development. 48
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.25: Frank Swettenham. 48
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.26: Stamford Raffles. 48
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.27: Early urban development in Klang. 49
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.28: Early Klang shophouses. 49
Source: Wong, 2017

XIV
CHAPTER 3
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 3.29: The early urban development. 50
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.30: The Klang shophouses remain standing strong and continue to serve for the local community. 50
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.31: The Evolution of shophouses in different time era. 51
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.32: Axonometric diagram of the shophouse with its main elements. 51
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.33: A row of shophouses. 53
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.34: The long narrow shophouse. 53
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.35: Variety of Facades style, design and colour. 54
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.36: Clean plaster facade with chinese ornamentation. 54
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.37: Decorated Shanghai plaster. 55
Source: Wong, 2017

XV
CHAPTER 3
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 3.38: Continuous walkway. 54
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.39: Top view of shophouse pitched view. 55
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.40: Few types of roof tiling. 55
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.41: Rear court not covered by first floor. 56
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.42: Rear court enclose by first floor. 56
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.43: A partially stretched of party wall. 58
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.44: Location Plan. 60
Figure 3.45: Colour coded blocks indicating different building types. 60
Figure 3.46: Indication of Jalan Besar. 61

XVI
CHAPTER 3
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 3.47: Indication Jalan Stesen. 61
Figure 3.48: Indication of Jalan Sultan. 61
Figure 3.49: The connection of Gedung Raja Abdullah and Jalan Stesen. 63
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.50: The heart of Malay street. 63
Source: MBK, 2014
Figure 3.51: Japanese community Jalan Stesen. 63
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.52: Royal Klang Gallery in the past. 63
Source: Google, 2013
Figure 3.53: An almost entire row of food stalls along Jalan Stesen. 63
Source: Anetizen, 2015
Figure 3.54: An important food street for the community. 63
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.55: The Klang bridge that completely changed the fate of Jalan Stesen. 64
Source: The Star News, 2014

XVII
CHAPTER 3
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 3.56: The original flexible circulation around Jalan Stesen. 64
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.57: The Klang bridge restricted flows and made it a one way traffic 64
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.58: Inflation and Migration happened in Jalan Stesen. 64
Source: Wong, 2017
Figure 3.59: Today, Klang has flourished as an important business and urban area. 64
Source: Viralcham, 2017
Figure 3.60: One of a few recessed building where its top floors are rented out its office space. 65
Figure 3.61: Shop lots recessed away from the original shop house’s continuous 5-foot walkway. 65
Figure 3.62: One of a few recessed building where its top floors are rented out its office space. 65
Figure 3.63: 5-foot walkway of Sykt Wah Sang Brothers. 65
Figure 3.64: Peaceful sight and parking spaces in front of each shophouse. 66

XVIII
CHAPTER 3
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 3.65: The variety of colours and look of the shophouses brighten up the street. 66
Figure 4.1: A photo of Mr. Lee Lai Choy with his older brother. 69
Figure 4.2: The construction of Klang Bridge not not only altered the circulation but also affected the businesses 71
of the streets.
Figure 4.3: Mr. Robert Lee, the nephew of Lai Choy, fixing watches. 72
Figure 4.4: Interview process with Mr. Lee Lai Choy. 73
Figure 4.5: The business’s timeline. 74-75
Source: Ryan, 2018
Figure 4.6: The entrance with two classic glass display counters, old fashioned timber frame glass and cabinet 77
and clocks welcoming the visitors.
Figure 4.7: The workstation with dark wooden tables and glass timber framed cabinet. 78
CHAPTER 4

XIX
CHAPTER 4
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 4.8: Rear part of the shopfront on the left is where the antique clocks are sent to repair, while on the right 79
is for a quick nap.
Figure 4.9: An atrium that opens to the sky, forming an airwell that brings in daylight, fresh air and rainwater into 80
the building.
Figure 4.10: Transition space as a pantry, lit by daylight that diffuses in via atrium. 81
Figure 4.11: Middle hall fully stuffed with unwanted goods and unused stock. 82
Figure 4.12: The upper hall occupied with discontinued stuffs. 84
Figure 4.13: Partitioned room containing an unused bed, an old standing clocks and fan. 85
Figure 4.14: 2nd picture from left column: The shopfront of Wah Sang containing petition writer shop and dentistry 87
Source: Robert, 2018
Figure 4.15: Front facade of Wah Sang Brother’s shophouse. 88

XX
CHAPTER 5
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 5.1: Concrete flooring system used in Wah Sang Brothers. 107
Figure 5.2: Wooden floor used in the first floor of the shophouse. 108
Figure 5.3: Reinforced concrete beam. 109
Figure 5.4: Load bearing wall. 110
Figure 5.5: Column. 111
Figure 5.6: Counter used as the main. 113
Figure 5.7: Wooden desk. 114
Figure 5.8: Clocks. 115
Figure 5.9: Altar. 116

XXI
CHAPTER 5
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 5.10: Plasterboard ceiling. 117
Figure 5.11: Partition walls. 118
Figure 5.12: Corrugated roof. 119
Figure 5.13: Ceramic tiles. 120
Figure 5.14: Clay bricks. 121
Figure 5.15: Paint. 122
Figure 5.16: Wooden door frame. 123
Figure 5.17: Wooden and grill doors. 124
Figure 5.18: Jalousie window. 125

XXII
CHAPTER 5
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 5.19: Wire mesh ventilation. 126
Figure 5.20: Staircase. 127
Figure 5.21: Air Vent grills. 128
Figure 5.22: Ventilation blocks. 129
Figure 6.1: Front elevation of Wah Sang Brothers. 136
Figure 6.2: Interior perspective of Syarikat Wah Sang Brothers. 136
Figure 6.3: Working area of Wah Sang Brothers watch shop. 137
Figure 6.4: Counter area of the shophouse. 137
CHAPTER 6

XXIII
CHAPTER 6
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 6.5: Outer view of the shophouse. 138
Figure 6.6: Cracks shown on the wall. 139
Figure 6.7: Rust on the metal grille sliding door. 140
Figure 6.8: Water stains on the ceiling. 140
Figure 6.9: Broken pieces of wood. 141
Figure 6.10: Efflorescence on the wall of the shophouse. 142
Figure 6.11: The miscellaneous store room. 143
Figure 6.12: Toilet which is in a bad condition. 143
Figure 6.13: Exposed nails from the partition wall. 143

XXXI
CHAPTER 8
FIGURES PAGES
Figure 8.1: Southern part of Klang in a sunny afternoon. 232
Figure 8.2 Northern part of Klang. The life here is slow-paced. Hardware shops can be found along the streets. 232
Source: Google map, 2018
Figure 8.3: Street view showing the mix of shophouses along Jalan Stesen. 234
Source: Ryan, 2018
Figure 8.4: 4-storey shophouses that portray the architecture of Early Modern style and International style can be
found along Jalan Tengku Diauddin, Klang. 236
Source: Google map, 2018
Figure 8.5: The mural art and art installation of the back alley. 237
Source: Lissa, 2018
Figure 8.6: The subtle and peaceful back alley complemented by colourful walls. Mosses on the wall give back alley 237
a rustic look and worn-out feeling.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Overall Flow & Details
Declaration of Submission i
Acknowledgement ii
Abstract iii
Introduction to chapters iv-v
List of Diagrams & Figures vi-xxxi
Table of Content
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Aims and Objective 2
1.2 Group structure & Organisation 3-5
1.3 Method of Conduct 6-10
1.4 Limitations 11
1.5 Introduction to Wah Sang Brothers 12
1.6 Introduction to Research 13
1.7 Summary 14
CHAPTER 2: HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
2.1 Malaysia 17
2.2 Introduction to Selangor
2.1.1 Origin of the Name 18
2.1.2 Background 19
2.1.3 History of Selangor 20-21
2.1.4 Sultanate of Selangor 22-23
2.3 Introduction to Klang
2.1.1 Origin of the Name 24
2.1.2 Background 25
2.1.3 Event Timeline of Klang 26-27
2.1.4 Sultanate 28
2.1.5 Economy of Klang 29
2.1.6 Cultural Landmarks 30-34
2.4 Summary 35
CHAPTER 3: CONTEXTUAL ELABORATION
3.1 Architectural style of Klang
3.1.1 Introduction to the Architecture in Klang 37-45
3.1.2 Introduction to shophouse in Malaysia and Klang 46-47
3.1.3 History of shophouse in Malaysia 48-49
3.1.4 Birth of shophouse in Klang 50-52
3.1.5 Elements of the shophouse 53-59

3.2 Streets
3.2.1 Location plan & Existing buildings 61
3.2.2 Jalan Besar 62
3.2.3 Jalan Stesen 62
3.2.4 Jalan Sultan Tengku Diauddin 62
3.3 Jalan Stesen
3.3.1 Evolution & morphology of the street in 64-67
nine decades
3.4 Summary 68
CHAPTER 4: WAH SANG BROTHERS
4.1 The Business
4.1.1 The History of Wah Sang Brother 70-75
4.2 The Shop House
4.2.1 Building Poetics 76-86
4.2.2 Building Programmes 87-92
4.2.3 Changes in the Building Layout 93-98
4.2.4 Architectural Analysis 99-103
4.3 Summary 104
CHAPTER 5: CONSTRUCTION METHOD,
DETAILS & MATERIALS
5.1 Rigidity
5.1.1 Flooring System 108-109
5.1.2 Reinforced Concrete 110
5.1.3 Wall 111
5.1.4 Column 112
5.2 Intertwine
5.2.1 Counter 114
5.2.2 Wooden Desk 115
5.2.3 Clocks 116
5.2.4 Altar 117
5.2.5 Air well 118
5.3 Temporal
5.3.1 Ceiling 120
5.3.2 Walls 121
5.3.3 Roofing 122
5.3.4 Flooring 123
5.3.5 Wall 124-125
5.3.6 Doors 126-127
5.3.7 Windows 128
5.3.8 Details 129-132

5.4 Summary 133
CHAPTER 6: CURRENT CONDITION
6.1 Operation and Functionality of Wah Sang Brothers 135
6.1.1 Spaces 136
6.1.2 Appearances 137
6.2 Defects and Dilapidation
6.2.1 Cracks 138
6.2.2 Rust 139
6.2.3 Water Stains 139
6.2.4 Broken Pieces 140
6.2.5 Timber Deterioration 140
6.2.6 Efflorescence 141
6.2.7 Miscellaneous 142
6.3 Improvements and Suggestions on Design 143
6.4 Summary 144
CHAPTER 7: SCALED DRAWINGS & PHOTOBOOK
7.1 Scaled Drawings 146-186
7.2 Photobook 187-230
CHAPTER 8: CONCLUSION & REFLECTION
8.1 Conclusion 232-239
8.2 Reflection 240-248
CHAPTER 9: APPENDIX
9.1 Interview Transcripts 250-257
9.2 Glossary 258-262
9.3 Bibliography and References 263-271

Introduction:
● 1.1 Aims and Objectives
● 1.2 Group structure & Organization
● 1.3 Method of Conduct
● 1.4 Limitations
● 1.5 Introduction to Wah Sang Brothers
● 1.6 Introduction to Research
● 1.7 Summary
CHAPTER 1

2
This module aims to help us develop an understanding of the fundamental building preservation by using the practice of
documentation method. It intend us to capture the current state of the shophouse, in aspects of detail measurements,
historical, cultural, significance, and its relationship with the site context. Whilst learning the different type of documentation
methods in architectural drawings, research and significance of the shop house.
This project requires the students to execute an on-site activity with hands-on measuring exercises guided by their tutors that
will enable us to gather information of the importance and significance of the building.
The objective of the report includes a set of theoretical explanation capturing the architecture of the shophouse, it’s context,
significance and reasons to justify why it should be preserved. A full set of drawings of the existing building is also needed
including plans, sections, elevations and details of the shophouse. Also, a photo book to document visuals of the shophouse
and other aspects.
1.1 Aims and Objectives
1INTRODUCTION

3
Due to the constant change in the task groupings, the group is structured dynamically for the use of any change in project
requirements that calls for a division of manpower and unforeseen demands of variation. The team is divided into sub groups by
relating it to the schedule division of Pre-site visit, During site visit and Post site visit. The benefit to the dynamic group structure
is to allow each sub groups to focus on a single component, one at a time for efficient progress. Also the other benefit to
reshuffling personnels into different sub groups when needed is that it provides an opportunity for students to expose
themselves to different task of the report.
PRE SITE VISIT & DURING SITE VISIT: At the start, the team is divided into two subgroups, Measurement team and Report
team. It allowed us to focus on our preliminary-research on different aspects, so we can use the period during the site visit
efficiently.
POST SITE VISIT: After the on-site exercise, the measurements team is then divided into 2 teams: Revit team and Modelling
team. Whereas report team still remains.
GROUP STRUCTURE
Figure 1.2 Created by: Lindsay Lim
1.2 Group Structure & Organization
1INTRODUCTION

4
PRE SITE & DURING SITE
SUBGROUP DIVISION
POST SITE SCHEDULE
SUBGROUP DIVISION
Below is a chart showing the main division of the group after
the collection of information from site.
Below is a chart showing the division of the task for each
subgroup before and during site visits.
Figure 1.3 Created by: Lindsay Lim
1INTRODUCTION

5
Figure 1.4 Created by: Ng Pui Yan
SCHEDULE TIMELINE
1INTRODUCTION

6
Measuring the shop house was one of the most important aspect in our project, to obtain precise measurements for every corner
of the building was needed to be accurate. Due to our inevitable human errors, a general understanding of technique approach
was needed for the team to be on the same page and mind. To avoid as much inconsistency in our records, we standardise a set
of method and rules for all measuring team to conduct. One of which is to create a template or a rough sketch on a portion of the
shop house being measured and communicate with the team to pursue the goal of measuring each and every nook and niche of
the shop house. Then, the measurements will be translated to digitalising on Revit. The use of technology and equipments were
being employed through the process of measuring the shop house by using tools like, laser measuring tools for high ceiling walls
and measuring tapes. The accuracy of the readings must be precise therefore other than the importance of equipments,
communication is vital for the measurements team to possess. One simple reading rounding of to the nearest tenth can cause a
discrepancies in compiling the recordings digitally.
3 - 5 Metres Measuring tape
This was a basic tool for all members to have on-site, which we encourage all member to
bring. It is useful for minimal measurements.
Laser distance measurement tool
Due to unreachable heights or inaccessible locations, this tool was vital to use when needed.
It helps measure distance and heights of greater magnitude that is our of reach from our
ability and it create less hassle in needing other equipments to obtain the information.
EQUIPMENTS USED:
Figure 1.5
(Photo source: Charlie, 2016)
Figure 1.6
(Photo source: Johnson, 2018)
1.3 Methods of Conduct: Measuring Methods
1INTRODUCTION

7
30 Metre Nylon measuring tape
The 30 metre measuring tape is used to measure the distance of surfaces that are curved or
uneven. This tool provides the flexibility in measuring the distances of walls that are uneven
and cannot be read by the laser tool.
Ladder
A ladder is needed to reach out to the details of ceiling corners to the gutters in between. A
stable ladder is required for safety precaution and a ladder of great height is needed to
extend to the greater height magnitude of the shophouse.
Ruler
Ruler is a basic tool needed when it comes to carrying out simple tasks in our everyday
activity. This was also used to measure the crook and niche of the shophouse when
measuring tape is seen as too bulky for a simple task.
DSLR Camera and Tripod
This was essential to produce for the photo book and video for the assignment. It also helps
to record the different activity and times during the day to create a time-lapse for better
understanding.
Figure 1.10
(Photo source: Khoo, 2018)
Figure 1.7
Figure 1.8
(Photo source: Lowe, 2012)
Figure 1.9
(Photo source: Ginifab, 2016)
1INTRODUCTION

8
Plumb bob
Plumb bob is a heavy material usually shaped in a diamond providing a thin tip at the
bottom, it is suspended from a string or a yarn thread to provide vertical reference line.
Yarn thread
A yarn thread is a long continuous length of interlocked fibres. It is used in conjunction
with a plumb bob to measure and provide reference line of height..
Markers
Different types of coloured markers were used to document and sketch the building
details. This is for the ease of identifying different information being recorded.
Chalk
Chalk is used for marking the walls or wooden floors where needed, chalk can be easily
removed by rubbing it off.
Masking tapes
We used masking tape to label the measurements that we have taken, so it doesn't stain
any furnitures or objects.
Figure 1.11
Figure 1.12
(Photo source: Tye, 2012)
Figure 1.13
(Photo source: Le, 2013)
Figure 1.14 (Photo source: Le. 2013)
Figure 1.15
(Photo source: Le, 2013)
1INTRODUCTION

9
There were a few methods being employed to obtain the necessary information of the shophouse, but due to the age of the
shophouse initiation of external resources and interviews was needed to explore.
Online & Literature Resources
We were able to obtain the basic information like the history of Klang and architectural styles efficiently whereas the process of
finding appropriate data pertaining the shophouse was unproductive as there were barely information about our shop house
due to its old age. This provoked us to look for external information from Cultural walks and Heritage walk to provide a bit more
on the shophouses in Klang. Interviews were also being executed to further expand our knowledge and history of our
shophouse
Figure 1.16 Books used for reference. (Photo source: Lissa, 2018)
1.3 Methods of Conduct: Data Collection
1INTRODUCTION

10
External Resource
Before the trip to our site, the insufficiency of the information
found on our shop house led us to sourcing our own findings
externally. One of which was to initiate an activity before the trip
to a Cultural and Heritage walk around Klang. The Cultural and
Heritage walk was an eye opener to us as many confusion was
being answered. Other than that, it gave us enough information to
connect the dots when it comes to the relationship our site and
shop house.
Interviews
Interviews were vital to us because it gave us an insight that could
not be found from online, literature, nor the heritage walk. It came
from the two Wah Sang Brothers owners themselves through their
3 generation experiences they were able to give us theirs
thoughts and hardships that result in compiling information such
as timelines of events, influences, and etc. Other than the owners
of Wah Sang Brothers, we took the opportunity to expand to the
surrounding neighbourhood to understand bit more to ensure the
consistency of the information. The interviews were highly
productive and was one with solely relied on for documentations.
Figure 1.17 Photo showing Cultural and Heritage Walk
(Photo source: anonymous)
Figure 1.18 and 1.19 An interview process with the owner
(Photo source: Syafiq Deen)
1INTRODUCTION

11
HUMAN ERROR
It is common to find parallax error in measurement procedures when eye level is not perpendicular to the readings of the
measuring equipments
CLUTTERED SPACE
Due to the inactiveness in the shop house, some spaces were left has storerooms filled with unwanted things. It was cluttered
everywhere against the walls and below tables and etc. This gave problems to the measurement team when they need to measure
every corners of the walls. It was troublesome enough to move many unwanted thing and to add on, it was hygienic as well.
HYGIENE
There were many objects cluttered everywhere that was left untouched for several years resulting in the collection of dust and
webs. We needed to make contact with the object since it must be moved and after the first day of visiting the site many students
felt sick due to the lack of sanitation.However, we prepared masks and gloves for everyone to use.
LACK OF LITERATURE
The shophouse is known for being one of the oldest shops in the streets, therefore resulting in the lack of history books that could
be obtained for more information. The history was mostly communicated through verbal communication therefore there wasn't
many materials to look for as reference.
1.4 Limitations
1INTRODUCTION

12
Wah Sang Brothers is a 1st generation watch shop located in the old town of Klang, run by Mr. Robert Lee (3rd
generation) and Mr. Lee Lai Choy (2nd generation). This old rustic shop has been standing strong since the beginning of
1890 weaving through the hardships of World War 2, but still prevailing in the 21st Century.
It’s own existence standing through the test of time and has been undeterred since the beginning.
“What is the significance of the building and
why does it need to be conserved?”
1.5 Introduction to Wah Sang Brothers
1INTRODUCTION

13
This research is to seek the significance of the building. There is a need in the context of Klang to conserve the history
in order to enhance the sense of place. Therefore this research will focus in finding significance relevant to the building
to make the case of conservation.
“What is the significance of the building and
why does it need to be conserved?”
1.6 Introduction to Research
1INTRODUCTION

14
This chapter has given a full fundamental introduction of the aims and objectives of this assignment, following a
thorough look through at the strategies and methods that the group will partake in. From the method of data
collection to the way the group has been divided for different tasks to ensure a balanced and consistent product.
All in all it provide the insight of problems and challenges that was face during the period of assignment.
1.7 Summary
1INTRODUCTION

Historical
Background:
● 2.1 Malaysia
● 2.2 Introduction to Selangor
● 2.3 Introduction to Klang
● 2.4 Summary
CHAPTER 2

MALAYSIA
16
2HISTORICALBACKGROUND
SELANGOR KLANG

17
Situated strategically in Southeast Asia, Malaysia benefits
from its geographical location in mediating global trade
and becoming the bustling melting pot of various cultures.
It is a multi-racial country, comprising of diverse ethnic
groups that live together in peace and harmony despite
having different customs and religions. This
multiculturalism has made Malaysia a gastronomical
paradise and home to a colourful mix of art and
architecture.
Figure 2.1 Map locating Malaysia as indicated in red
(Map Source: Lissa Lai)
2.1 Malaysia

18
In the earliest time, the name Selangor refers to the Malay
word, langau, a large fly or blowfy that may be found in the
marshes along the Selangor River. Legend has claims that
a warrior who was traveling was outwitted by a fly was that
was disturbing him while he was resting by the river bank.
The incident led him to explore the land and he finally
settled down, naming the place “satu (se) langau”, which
eventually became Selangor.
According to another story, traders had named the estuary
as “Kuala Mentangau” since the area was surrounded with
a type of of mangrove plant known as “mentangau”. Over
time, the name evolved from Kuala Mentangau into Kuala
Selangor.
Another theory claims that the state’s name is a
combination of the word “salang” (stabbing) and “jemur”
(dry under the sun). The two words were combined to
create the word “selangur”. Kuala Selangor is said to be a
place for people in the past to torture traitors by stabbing
them and putting them under the sun.
Figure 2.2 The land of Kuala Selangor (Photo Source: Klein, 2011)
2.2.1 Origin of the Name

19
Figure 2.3 Population of Selangor (Pie Chart Source: Cecilia, 2018)
Selangor is a state on the west coast of peninsular
Malaysia and it is bordered by Perak to its north, Negeri
Sembilan to the south and Pahang to the east. Its west
coast faces the Straits of Malacca. It has three main rivers
- the Klang, Selangor and Langat rivers. At the mouth of
the Klang River is Port Klang, formerly known as Port
Swettenham, which is one of the main ports of Malaysia.
Selangor is Malaysia’s most populous state and has a
population of 4.7 million comprising 41% Malays, 37%
Chinese, 19% Indians and 3% others. It is also the most
industrialised and richest state. It is also the most
industrialised and richest state. Its main urban areas are
Petaling Jaya, Shah Alam (the state capital), Klang and
Subang Jaya.
2.2.2 Background

20
Selangor history dates to the 16th century, when rich tin
deposits were around in the region. This lead to increasing
numbers of Chinese immigrants to work the mines.
Fighting between the Bugis, the, Chinese immigrants and
the indigenous Malays became more frequent. Eventually
this led to British intervention, and the imposition of a
British Resident in 1874.
The area’s natural wealth, along with its relative freedom
from the presence of the Dutch, attracted miners,
immigrants and colonizers. One especially important group
of settlers were the Bugis, a Malay people from Macassar
(now Ujung Padang) in Celebes. Bugis emigration from this
great port city followed the steady encroachment of whom
the Bugis had allied themselves. Renowned for their
capabilities as sea traders and warriors who fought
wearing chain-mail armour, and used warships in sea
battles., the Bugis soon rose to prominence in Selangor.
By 1700 they dominated the state both politically and
economically and had established the present Sultanate of
Selangor.
Figure 2.4 Klang Bell dated 200 B.C.
Figure 2.5 Klang Bell dated 200 B.C
(Photo source: Wikipedia, 2017)
2.2.3 History of Selangor

21
Its first capital was Kuala Selangor which was established
in 1766 by a Bugis warrior. In 1875, the capital was moved
to Jugra in 1880, the British colonial government moved to
Kuala Lumpur, Klang became power when Sultan
Sulaiman moved in 1901. Another important event that
have the needs to marked down is British Resident, Frank
Swettenham united Selangor with Negeri Sembilan, Perak
and Pahang to form the Federated Malay States, at about
the same time that rubber cultivation began in Malaysia. In
1948, the state joined the Federation of Malaysia.
2.2.3 History of Selangor

22
The Royal House of Selangor are descended from the Yang
di-Pertua of Riau, Indonesia. They are Bugis, originating
from Luwu in the islands of the Celebes. Raja Lumu, second
son of Raja Chelak, the 2nd Yang di-Pertuan Muda of Riau,
conquered Selangor and established his legitimacy by being
installed by the Sultan of Perak in 1766. Frequently at odds
with the Dutch and native Malay rulers, his son Ibrahim, was
expelled from Selangor in 1786. Ibrahim eventually reached
an accommodation with the Dutch and was allowed to
return, two years later.
The beginning of the Selangor Sultanate dates back to the
end of the 17th century, during the intervention of the Dutch
towards the Bugis people in Celebes Islands. This marked
the start of the Bugis Diaspora; in search of new settlement.
Selangor joined the fledgling federation, known as the
Federated Malay States in 1897. The land for the new
federal capital at Kuala Lumpur, being donated by the
Sultan of Selangor. Economic development was quite rapid
with the introduction of rubber cultivation and port facilities.
The Japanese occupied the state in 1941 and deposed the
ruling Sultan, in favour of his disinherited elder brother. He
was deposed on the return of British troops at War's end,
and the rightful Sultan restored.
Figure 2.6 Arms of His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor
Figure 2.7 Celebes Islands (Photo source: Britannica, 2018)
2.2.3 Sultanate

23
In 1714, a few hundred Bugis settlers made Klang, Linggi
and Kuala Selangor their new home. The appointment of the
first Yamtuan Muda (Underking) of Johor, Bugis Daeng
Merewah, in 1721, resulted in the rapid migration of Bugis
people into the region, especially in Kuala Selangor. The
involvement of Bugis in the Johor Sultanate affairs began
when the Sultan of Johor made an agreement with them.
The agreement was that the Bugis were given power to
govern the Kingdom of Johor through the appointment of a
Bugis ‘Underking’ in exchange they protected Johor from
the onslaught of the Siak of Sumatera. This tradition was
upheld until 1831.
Ever since the interference of the Dutch in the Bugis affairs,
the two have been foes in all aspects, especially in trading.
This rivalry was evident during the period of Daeng Chelak,
the second ‘Underking’ (1728-1745). He has gather many of
the Bugis who settled along the coast of Selangor and
formed a government at Kuala Selangor in order to control
the trading activities carried out, especially between the
locals and the Dutch.
Figure 2.8 Daeng Merewah
(Photo source: Budaya Indonesia, 2014)
2.2.3 Sultanate

24
There were many sources regarding the etymology of
‘Klang’. Some say it must have been taken from the river
that flows through the town. The river which begins at
Kuala Lumpur and ends at Port Klang is called Klang
Valley.
Other sources say it was Ptolemy’s (who lived from around
87-150 AD) Malaion Colon. Other records mention a
‘Calang’ or ‘Calan’. Indian sources mention a ‘Calam’ while
Portuguese apothecary and writer Tomes Pires, in his
Suma Oriental (written between 1512 and 1515),
mentioned a visit to a tin-producing area called ‘Calam’.
His countryman, de Eredia, reported in 1613 that ‘Kelang’
was a source of tin and it produced a hundred bars of the
metal annually.
Another popular theory that surfaced was derived from the
Mon–Khmer word Klong. The word may mean a canal or
waterway, alternatively it has also been argued that it
means "warehouses", from the Malay word Kilang – in the
old days, it was full of warehouses (kilang currently means
"factory").Figure 2.9 Ptolemy (Photo source: Wikipedia, 2018)
2.3.1 Origin of Name

25
Klang is the royal capital of Selangor. Prior to the formation
of Kuala Lumpur, Klang was the former administrative
capital of Selangor before it was changed to Shah Alam. In
1971, the Klang District Council, which incorporated the
nearby townships of Kapar and Meru as well as Port Klang,
was formed. After undergoing a further reorganisation
according to the Local Government Act of 1976 (Act 171),
Klang District Council was upgraded to Klang Municipal
Council (KMC) on 1 January 1977. The Klang Municipal
Council or Majlis Bandaraya Klang (MPK) exercises
jurisdiction for a majority of the Klang District except for the
East side. Shah Alam City Council exercises their jurisdiction
over the East of Klang District and North of Petaling District.
In Malaysia, Klang is considered to have the longest history
marked here, dating back to before Parameswara first
founded Malacca in 1400. Klang’s history goes back to at
least 2,000 years and the river that flows through the town,
Klang River, has been known to be the export route of tin
mined from the interior since ancient times.
Figure 2.10 Klang Municipal Council Logo
(Photo source: MPKlang, 2018)
Figure 2.11 Demography of Klang 2010 (Pie Chart Source: Lissa Lai)
2.3.2 Background

26
2nd Century BC
Artifacts discovery
The discovery of prehistoric
artifacts such as ‘tulang mawas’
and the bronze bell (which is now
in display in the British Museum)
in Klang.
1409
Cheng Ho marked and named in
maritime charts
Klang river was marked in the
charts by the Chinese Admiral
during his visits to Malacca.
1511
The fall of Malacca
Portuguese conquered Malacca
and took over Klang’s tin mining
industry. Exploiting almost
hundreds of bares. Klang was
also controlled by Sultan of
Johor-Riau.
1874
End of Klang War
Accepted a British Resident who
would "advise" the Sultan, and
Klang became the capital of
British colonial administration for
Selangor from 1875 until 1880
when the capital city was moved
to Kuala Lumpur.
1886
Completion of KLang
Valley Railway
Klang remained the chief
outlet for Selangor's tin, and
its position was enhanced by
the completion of the Klang
Valley railway (to Bukit
Kuda).
1867
Klang War
Raja Mahadi fought to regain what
he considered his birthright as
territorial chief against Raja
Abdullah.
Highlights the heritage of the Selangor
Sultanate, originating in 1766 from Bugis
Sulawesi royal family.
1875
Used as a warehouse for Raja Abdullah,
the first Malay tin mining pioneer.
(Photo Source: Syafiq, 2018)
1890
A train station serving the KTM
Komuter train service.
Galeri Diraja Sultan Abdul Aziz Gedung Raja Abdullah
Klang Railway Station
2.3.3 Event timeline of Klang

27
1963
3 Administrations
The Port Klang Authority was
created and it now administers
three Port Klang areas: Northport,
Southpoint, and West Port..
1954
Effects of local election
The Town Board became the
Klang Town Council after a local
election was set up to select its
members in accordance with the
Local Government Election
Ordinance of 1950.
1903
Royal seat is moved back
The royal seat was moved back to
Klang when it became the official
seat of Sultan Sulaiman (Sultan
Alauddin Sulaiman Shah) from
Jugra.
1890
Administrations
Was formed to administer Klang.
In 1895, the official border of
Klang was defined.
1926
Merge
The health boards of Klang and
Port Swettenham were merged,
and in 1945 the local authority
was renamed Klang Town Board.
1890
First fire station in Klang South.
1910
Cater for the religious needs of the Indian
Muslim community.
Kota Raja Fire & Rescue Station India Muslim Tengku Kelana Mosque
(Photo Source: Syafiq, 2018) (Photo Source: Syafiq, 2018)
2.3.3 Event timeline of Klang

28
Table 2.6 Genealogy of Sultan in Selangor (Source: Tye, 2012)
The late 8th Sultan of Selangor and 11th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of
Malaysia, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan
Hisamuddin Alam Shah Al-Haj, was known to be the people’s king. For
many of the locals in Klang, he was most famous as the ‘Ah Pek of
Pulau Ketam’ and would often dress down and casual when wandering
around the areas. Because of his humble appearance and attitude,
many of the locals never called him as ‘His Royal Highness’ but instead
‘Ah Pek’ (阿伯) or uncle in Hokkien.
During his reign as Sultan of Selangor, he was very close to Mr. Lee Lai
Choy, the 2nd generation owner of Wah Sang Brothers. Mr. Lee and his
nephew, Mr. Robert, would often be hired to fix the clocks in many of
the palaces in Selangor such as Istana Alam Shah and so on. Their
deep friendship, was often the reason why the late Sultan trusted Mr.
Lee in taking care of their watches and clocks. As a token of
appreciation, Sultan Salahuddin personally gifted Mr. Lee a gold watch.
This watch has now hold a special place in Mr. Lee’s heart.
Figure 2.12 Sultan of Selangor
(Photo source: Malaysian monarchy,
2018)
Figure 2.13 The watch gifted to Mr. Lee by Sultan Salahuddin
The following states the genealogy of Sultanate:
Sultans of Selangor Reign
Sultan Salahuddin Shah (Raja Lumu) 1745–1778
Sultan Ibrahim Shah (Raja Ibrahim) 1778–1826
Sultan Muhammad Shah 1826–1857
Sultan Sir Abdul Samad 1857–1896
Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah 1896–1937
Sultan Sir Hishamuddin Alam Shah Al-Haj 1937–1942, 1945–1960
Sultan Musa Ghiatuddin Riayat Shah During Japanese occupation
1942–1945
Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj 1960–2001
Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Al-Haj 2001–present
2.3.4 Sultanate

29
Klang consists of multitudes of economies within its vicinity.
The major industrial areas include Bukit Raja, Kapar, Meru,
Taman Klang Utama, Sungai Buloh, Pulau Indah, Teluk Gong
and many others. Prior to the 1970s, rubber used to play a
major role in the region’s economy before the rubber plantations
switched to palm oil estates. Soon it was transformed for urban
development and infrastructure use.
Asides from that, Port Klang holds a major role in Klang’s
economy. It is home to about 95 shipping companies and
agents, 300 custom brokers, 25 container storage centres, as
well as more than 70 freight and transport companies. It handled
almost 50% of Malaysia's seaborne container trade in 2013. The
Port Klang Free Zone was established in 2004 to transform Port
Klang into a regional distribution hub as well as a trade and
logistics centre. Its highly diversified economy ranges from
agriculture, industry and commerce to tourism.
While industry is rapidly expanding, the mainstays of the state’s
economy remain rubber, palm oil, and tin mining. Port Klang,
already the largest port in the country, is experiencing the
vigorous development. Tourism is also beginning to have a
major impact on the economy. Selangor completely surrounds
the Federal Territory of Wilayah Persekutuan, and there are
many close economic and social ties between them.
Figure 2.14 Port Klang as major industries area
Figure 2.15 P Port Klang as major industries’ area
2.3.5 Economy

30
Situated beside the Klang Police Station was renovated to
become the tin museum. Gedung Raja Abdullah is a two
storey heritage building which was built around 1875. It was
used as a warehouse for Raja Abdullah, the first Malay tin
mining pioneer, who lived upstairs with his family storing his
tin and other good on the ground floor. Conflict broke out
between Raja Abdullah and his rival, Raja Mahadi around
1867 and the warehouse had to be fortified during this
period. Figure 2.16 Gedung Raja Abdullah (Photo Source: Syafiq, 2018)
Figure 2.17 Our Lady of Lourdes Church
(Photo Source: Ramber and Wander, 2016 )
Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, a Catholic church built in
1923 to serve the Chinese and Indian Catholic community in
Klang. Father Souhait was directed to take charge of the
spiritual needs of the Catholic residents in Klang and
surrounding districts. Eventually, he succeeded in getting the
land where the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes and Sekolah
Menengah Convent now stand reserved for worship. They
went declared open and blessed by Bishop Perrichon in 1928.
This church is along Jalan Tengku Kelana is fashioned after
Notre-dame de Paris, widely considered the finest example of
French Gothic architecture.
2.3.6 Cultural Landmarks

31
Built in 1909 by British architect Author B. Hubback, it was used by the
British as the land and administration office during the world war II as its
war headquartered and later by several local authorities until its recent
restoration into the current gallery. The Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery
highlights the heritage of the Selangor Sultanate, originating in 1766 from
the Bugis Sulawesi royal family of Opu Tanreburung Daeng Relaka of the
Malay Archipelago. The gallery is housed in the magnificent Bangunan
Sultan Suleiman and was established in honour of Sultan Salahuddin
Abdul Aziz Shah, who ruled for over 39 years as the Sultan of Selangor
and two years as the King of Malaysia.
Figure 2.18 Galeri Diraja Sultan Abdul Aziz
Figure 2.19 Kota Raja Fire and Rescue Station
Built in 1890, Klang fire station is the first fire station in Klang South,
primarily to safeguard the town from fires. It is located at the junction of
Jalan Tengku Diauddin and Jalan Tengku Kelana, overlooking the bridge
on the latter road. Today, the building still serves as a fire station.
Though it has been renovated throughout the years to accommodate
modern use, the main structure and architecture at design features are
well maintenance keeping intact the way it looked a hundred years ago.
The construction of the fire station was supervised by local police
department to the State government and the Federal government in
1978. This building was used as a storage ammunition until the 1960 in
which it was then used as a police station. At the same time, it was also
designed to amplify sounds of incoming attacks from Japanese
occupiers.

32
The Little India enclave, located along Jalan Tengku Kelana in
Klang,which is the biggest Indian-influenced street in Malaysia. Lined
with shops on both sides of road, and with spilling onto sidewalks and
back alleys. Fierce competition among traders has resulted in lower
prices for both locals and tourists, making the place a havens for bargain
hunters and lovers of street food. Furthermore, shops and stalls here sell
almost everything you can think of - from traditional clothing textiles,
jewellery and accessories to garlands made of fresh flowers, home decor
items and scrumptious Indian delicious. During Deepavali, the “Festival
of Lights”, the electrifying atmosphere as festive and revellers through
the streets makes shopping here a unique experience.
The original India Muslim Tengku Kelana mosque was built around
1910 to cater for the religious needs of the Indian Muslim community
who lived in and around Klan. Since demolished and rebuilt a number
times, the current building can accommodate 1000 worshippers. There is
mausoleum of one of the mosque’s founders within the grounds. India
Muslim Tengku Kelana mosque is one of the major mosques in Klang,
Selangor. One of the Klang’s Little India , it is bordered by Jalan Tengku
Kelana and Jalan Dato Hamzah, also called simply as Masjid India Klang.
Figure 2.20 Street of Little India (Photo Source: Syafiq,2018)
Figure 2.21 India Muslim Tengku Kelana mosque

33
The formal Chartered bank situated at the intersection of Jalan Istana and
Jalan Dato Hamzah, was established since 1874,it was the first financial
institution in Klang. The building is now home to an Indian boutique shop and
has been renovated to cater to the commercial demands. The Standard
Chartered bank was founded by the Queen of England, Queen Victoria in the
year 1953 and is an amalgamation of two banks; the first beings the
Standard Bank of British South Africa and the Chartered Bank of India,
Australia and China in 1969. From 1909 till 1996, the ground floor of the
building operated as a bank, whereas the first and seconds floors were
occupied by British administration from 1909 until Malaya gained its
independence in 1957. The ground level of the second block was turned into
the horse stables temporarily until 1957. Today, the former bank is being
housed by Indians business where various varieties of boutiques of Asian
culture are being sold.
Sultan Suleiman Royal Mosque is Selangor’s Royal Mosque, located in
Klang. It was designed by the British architect, L. Keste Vend and was
officiated in 1932 by the Almarhum Sultan Sir Alaeddin Suleiman Shah of
Selangor along with the British Federated Malay States High Commissioner
Sir Lawrence Nuuns Guilemard.
Figure 2.18 Old Chartered Bank Building
(Photo source: CNB, 2013)
Figure 2.19 Sultan Suleiman Royal Mosque

34
Klang Convent School was established in 1924 with only 19 students.
It is located on Jalan Tengku Kelana, right next to Our Lady of Lourdes
Church. The main building of the school, which can be easily be spotted
from Jalan Tengku Kelana, was built from 1926 to 1928.It was officiated
by former acting Secretary to the Resident of Selangor, Sir William Peel
on 18 January in the year of 1928.
Alam Shah Palace is the official palace of the Sultan of Selangor, built
in 1905 during the rule of Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah, who was
the fifth Sultan of Selangor. The Sultan went on to live in the palace for
35 years until his death in 1939. It was also here that the 7th Sultan,
Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, was born. Despite the Sultan
having two other official residences in Shah Alam and Putrajaya, most
royal ceremonies involving the Selangor royal family are held in Alam
Shah Palace. The palace has 15 rooms and was built using wood and
marble. In early 2000, extensive renovations were carried out by the
Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah.
Figure 2.20 Klang Convent school
Figure 2.21 Alam Shah Palace (Photo source: Wikipedia, 2018)

35
In an overview, Selangor is Malaysia’s most developed and progressive state. The values in the past has helped
shaped and brought the Selangor we know today rich in history and cultural aspect. Not only that but the
influences of past dominance and trends has become a significant style that shaped the buildings we have a
glimpse of today, which we will capture in the next chapter: Contextual Elaboration. The next chapter will provide a
macro to micro view of the context, from explaining the architectural styles in Klang to the specifics of a
shophouse. Whilst taking a journey to the development and influence of the streets in the past that has brought to
what it is now.
2.4 Summary

Contextual
Elaboration:
● 3.1 Architecture of Klang
● 3.2 The Streets
● 3.3 Jalan Stesen
● 3.4 Summary
CHAPTER 3

37
Klang has been through many revolution in terms of history,
economy and cultural and nevertheless architecture also. With
many different types of community and settlements living in the
town along the years has brought in influence from their cultural
background from their homeland and origins. Before these
revolution, buildings were very much just attap houses with simple
constructions and design.
The Straits Settlement especially, has brought in their own
architecture knowledge in styles and methods of construction that
completely revolutionize not just Klang but also the entire Malaya.
The Chinese and Indian community which has been brought in by
the Strait Settlements have also influenced the architecture aspect
with their unique cultural practice and lifestyle. Besides that Klang
is the royal town and former capital of the state of Selangor,
Malaysia,where some elements and building of the town has
relation to the Royalty.
3.1 Architecture of Klang
3.1.1 Introduction to Architecture in Klang
Figure 3.1 The early attap house settlement
(Photo Source: Stampnotes,2013)
Figure 3.2 New building styles emerges time to time since
Straits Settlements in Malaysia
(Photo Source: Wikimedia, 2016)
3CONTEXTUALELABORATION

38
There was no replacement of architecture styles despite the emergence of
variety of influence but instead it became a variation that compliments the
diversity of community living together as one. Klang’s variety of architecture
gives a wide variation of aesthetics that became an identity of its own.
Figure 3.4 The famous Indian Street is a good example of
strong cultural influence in Klang.
(Photo Source: Thestar, 2014)
Figure 3.5 The Sultan Alam Shah Palace is the main
Sultanate influence in Klang
(Photo Source: Prettysmplynormal, 2014)
Figure 3.3 Variety of architecture styles in Klang with influence from different cultures.
(Photo Source: Star2, 2015)

39
Having said Klang is blessed with variety of architecture styles, these are the few architecture style that emerged over the
years since its revolution in architecture. The buildings under each style are situated near to each other which then leads to
the introduction of the Heritage Walk to introduce the buildings and its background to visitors.
Figure 3.6 The map of Heritage Site of Klang City showing the different buildings of different architectural style.
(Map Diagram Source: Wong Che Fon, 2018)
1.NEOCLASSICAL STYLE
A.Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery
B.Sultan Sulaiman Mosque
2.ART DECO STYLE
B.Sultan Sulaiman Mosque
C.Istana Shah Alam
3.VICTORIAN STYLE
D.Klang Fire Station
4.CAPE DUTCH STYLE
E.The Old Chartered Bank branch
5.GOTHIC REVIVAL STYLE
F.Church of our Lady of Lourdes
6.INDO SARACENIC STYLE
G.Masjid India Muslim Tengku
7.TUDOR REVIVAL STYLE
H.Royal Klang Club
8.SOUTH INDIAN STYLE
I.Sri Nagara Thendayuthapani
I
H
F
G
D
C B
A

40
SULTAN ABDUL AZIZ ROYAL GALLERY (Completed in 1909)
Neoclassical architecture is characterized by grandeur of scale,
simplicity of geometric forms, Greek. The Doric or Roman order
detail, dramatic use of columns, and a preference for blank walls
is found in the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery.
This gallery is a bit cloning the ’ White House’ so the Klang
people call these building as ‘The White House’. The style is
manifested its details as a reaction against the Rococo style of
naturalistic ornament, and in its architectural formulae as an
outgrowth of some classicising features of the Late Baroque
architectural tradition. Projections and recessions and their
effects of light and shade were more flat; sculptural bas-reliefs
were flatter and tended to be enframed in friezes, tablets or
panels.Figure 3.7 The simple outlook of building allows it to be utilised for many
purposes
(a) Neoclassical Style

41
SULTAN ALAM SHAH PALACE (Constructed in 1905)
The architect, Leofric Kesteven designed the buildings in such a way that
the mosque’s architecture has a influence of islamic architecture and
combination of western art deco and Neoclassical cathedral style. The
original design of the building is such a church plan, whereby the design
is like a cross bar when view from above. It because of the mosque could
be convert to church if the British colonise Malaysia completely.
SULTAN SULAIMAN MOSQUE (Constructed in 1932, officially opened in
1934 )
The mosque's Art Deco concept for minimal decorative elements used
here. Use simple geometry in plan mosque also lead to Western Art Deco.
There are eight small towers around the mosque and a large tower in the
middle and higher entrance from the main porch. The tower is also
decorated with yellow dome at the summit. Architect who designed the
mosque is Leofric Kesteven. The mosque can accommodate about 1,000
pilgrims at a time. The present mosque has been through a number of
processes and internal modifications in the 'courtyard' building. Original
design is like a crossbar when viewed from above, as is so often used in
church plans in Europe. But now form the Sultan Suleiman Mosque
already looks like a square customisation of the Selangor Islamic Religious
Department (JAIS).
(b) Art Deco Style
Figure 3.8 A symmetrical yet rich in ornamental building
reflecting on its Sultanate influence.
(Photo Source: Xinyi, 2015 )
Figure 3.9 The golden dome provides a impression of royalty.
(Photo Source: Syafiq Deen,2018)

42
THE CHARTERED BANK (Completed in 1909)
The old Chartered Bank of India, Australia & China began financial business
in Singapore in 1859 and Penang 1875. As such, the Dutch style building
could have been built about the late 1800’s as it housed the Chartered Bank
branch in Klang Town. European Style had influenced the architecture of
Malaya especially the styles that were modified according to the tropical
climate and combined with architecture influence of Malay, Classical
Portuguese, Dutch and English. This building certainly has Dutch influences
with unique Dutch Gables. The main building could have been used for the
banking business, with covered footbridges connected to an annex which
could have housed the living quarters of the employees and stables for
horses and carriages – as observed from its carriage house type of
doorways.
ROYAL KLANG CLUB
The emphasis was on the simple, rustic, and the less impressive aspects of
Tudor architecture. Vernacular architecture style in this building was shown
by the construction of the corridor around the building. The roof extended to
cover over the corridor, also creating large shades to prevent the main
building from taking directed sunlight and heat, maintaining the a lower
temperature inside the building which is suitable in malaysia climate. The
interior of the club were decorated with the leftovers of British colonial ship.
The beam and ceiling and columns are mainly made by timber, the beams
are rectangular in shape and there are repetition of smaller beams all over
the ceiling . The decorative had made the Royal Klang Club become a place
of interaction between Malay tradition culture and british colonial culture.
(c) Cape Dutch Style
(d) Tudor Revival Style
Figure 3.10 The influential European outlook.
(Photo Source: Times of Malaya, 2010)
Figure 3.11 The climatic adapted building
provides practical and simple aesthetics.
(Photo Source: Flickr, 2008)

43
Figure 3.12 Exterior of Church of Our Lady of Lourdes
(Photo Source: Syafiq,2018)
Figure 3.13 Interior of Church of Our of Lourdes
CHURCH of LADY of LOURDES (Built in 1990)
Gothic Revival (also referred to as Victorian Gothic or Neo-Gothic) is an
architectural movement that began in the late 1740s in England. Gothic
Revival draws features from the original Gothic style, including decorative
patterns, finials, scalloping, lancet windows, hood mouldings, and label
stops. The revived Gothic style was not limited to architecture.
Architectural elements such as pointed arches, steep-sloping roofs and
fancy carvings like lace and lattice work were applied to a wide range of
Gothic Revival objects. Some examples of Gothic Revivals influence can
be found in heraldic motifs in coats of arms, painted furniture with
elaborate painted scenes.
(e) Gothic Revival Style

44
(f) Indo-Saracenic Style
MASJID INDIA MUSLIM TENGKU KELANA
A worship centre was built in Klang in 1890. This centre of worship was
turned into a mosque in 1910 and governed by an Indian merchant. The
original mosque was demolished in 1973 and rebuilt as the present 2
storey building we see today. The four tower are Egyption architecture
that found in this mosque. While there is some Neoclassical elements
founded in this mosque also that were the arches that can see easily in
front the entrance.
SRI NAGARA THENDAYUTHAPANI
(SREE RAJARAJESWARI) TEMPLE
This temple layout pursues a geometrical design known as
vastu-purusha-mandala, the name of which is derived from the three
vital components of the design namely Vastu meaning Vaas or a place
of dwelling; Purusha, meaning the Universal principle; and Mandala
meaning circle. Vastupurush Mandala is a mystical diagram referred in
Sanskrit as a Yantra. The symmetrical and self-repeating model of a
Hindu temple demonstrated in the design is derived from the primary
convictions, traditions, myths, fundamentality and mathematical
standard.
(g) South Indian Temple Style
Figure 3.14 The unique mosque design is a interesting
attraction in Klang.
Figure 3.15 The Gopuram is the main monument of
the temple

45
(h) Victorian Style
KLANG FIRE STATION (Built in 1890)
The beautiful Victorian-style construction was built in the 1890s,
primarily to safeguard the town from fires. It is located at the junction
of Jalan Tengku Diauddin and Jalan Tengku Kelana, overlooking the
bridge on the latter road.
Today, the building still serves as a fire station. Though it has been
renovated throughout the years to accommodate modern use, the
main structure and architectural design features are well maintained,
keeping intact the way it looked a hundred years ago.One of the
oldest heritage buildings in klang during 19 century. There is one of
the column in front has been demolish and renovated to the cuboid
instead of cylindrical shape. It also one of the bricks wall constructed
building in klang.
Figure 3.16 The First Victorian building in Malaysia

46
The term ‘Shophouses’ originates from a mandarin term which
means a combination of a residential and a business operating place
into one building that functions to serve the local needs where having
a place for family to stay and at the same time.
This mixed-use building and unique urban housing form characterises
the historical centres of most colonial towns and cities in the
Southeast Asia region where it is:
1. Highly populated in human density.
2. Rich in economic activities and infrastructures.
3. Fast growing in urban development.
4. Important part of the state and country.
5. Requiring a commercial area for goods and services.
Characteristics
Figure 3.17 The Shophouses.
(Photo Source: Wikipedia, 2014)
Figure 3.18 Shophouses serves for economic purposes.
(Photo Source: Pinayflyinghigh 2017)
3.1.2 Introduction to shophouse in Malaysia and Klang
Introduction

47
It is usually rented out to be operated as barber shop, clan
association gathering space, coffee shop, dentistry, clinic, watch
shop and many more shops that provides services and daily goods.
In a shophouse there can be multiple space rented out for business
operations. Small business space were segregated by building
wooden partition walls thus more space can be made for rentals.
However some shophouse owners decides to run their own family
business which some still operates till today after passing on from
generation to generation.
Families usually spends time and sleeps together in the same space
with mattress laid down on the floor.Although it might be a simple
living,but the shophouse provided sufficient accommodation and
comfort for families.In shophouses,partition walls are added to
separate space to accommodate different families in the same
floor.Toilet is also located here for conveniency.
The kitchen is usually located downstairs behind the business space
together with the toilet as the faeces and waste is easily disposed in
the back alley drain which then connects to all shophouses in the
same row.Clothes and any cleaning process is also done here with
convenient disposal of waste and dirty water.
Residential Floor
Figure 3.19 The Kopitiam is a common shophouse business
(Photo Source: Wikimedia 2014)
Figure 3.20 (Left) The Residential Floor
Figure 3.21 (Right) The Back Alley
(Photo Source: Wikimedia 2014)
3.1.2 Introduction to shophouse in Malaysia and Klang
Business Floor

48
Shophouses were first introduced into Southeast Asia by Strait
Settlements and has heavily influenced the local living style and
culture. It was originally built for single male immigrant workers
from Southern Coastal Provinces in China in the 19th century to
have a place to work and sleep. These immigrants are responsible
to work in the tin mining land. It soon became a common housing
typology in early town as more and more workers were brought
into the country.
As immigrant women were later also brought in years later and
provides the male workers to settle down and built their own
family which then leads to the residential floor of the shophouse
being utilised for family purposes and settlements. Besides the
shophouse also became a commercial development.
Figure 3.22 Tin mining workers originally from China.
(Photo source: Arleneanddennis 2014)
Figure 3.23 Early shophouse development for Chinese immigrants.
(Photo source: Roots 2014 )
3.1.3 History of Shophouse in Malaysia

49
The British President, Frank Swettenham was responsible in the
earliest urban development of shophouses in Selangor, Malacca,
Penang as well as Kuala Lumpur. He introduced building
regulations as such that original extract shelter settlements to be
rebuilt from bricks with tiled roofs and buildings were to be built
five-foot away from the road allowing for passageway after a fire
occured in 1881 in Kuala Lumpur where the wooden shophouses
were burned down.This marks the introduction and
encouragement into using brick building system and material.
This was duplicated from the 1822 Town Plan of Singapore
initiated by Sir Stamford Raffles who was a British statesmen and
founder of the shophouse prototype. Hence, shophouse were also
known as “Shophouse Rafflesia”.He introduced The Raffles
Ordinance 1822 that requires every shophouse to have a
veranda-way of a least 7 feet measuring from the boundary of the
road and the footway within any veranda-way must be at least 5
feet from distance.
Figure 3.24 The early urban development.
(Photo source: Thehistoriantunnel 2015)
Figure 3.25 (Left) Frank Swettenham and Figure 2.26 (Right)
Stamford Raffles which both is responsible of urban developments.
(Photo source: Theearlymalaydoctors 2013)
3.1.3 History of Shophouse in Malaysia

50
For two centuries, beginning from the 16th, Klang was one of the
most important port and mining areas in the peninsula. This
causes the migration of labourers from China to the Klang for tin
mining. They settled down here and started their own small
businesses. An urban and economical area was needed for their
needs, thus, shophouse was much suited for the fulfillment.
Trading activities from Penang, Singapore and Melaka were also
expanding from the coastal area to the inner land which has
encourage development of shophouse in Klang. The shophouses
were never been built with timber and attap due the the tragic
fire incident in Kuala Lumpur, any constructed building were
restricted only to be built with bricks. Thus, the birth of the
shophouses located were along Jalan Stesen 1, Jalan Raya
Timur and Jalan Besar. These shophouses contributed to the
cultural society and economy of the area as being a mining town
and also an important port for tradings, the human density and
activity will be very high thus these shophouse serves as a
strategic gathering point for their accommodations and needs.
Some shops were even own by merchants from other regions or
country.
3.2.4 Birth of Shophouse in Klang
Figure 3.27 Early urban development in Klang.
(Photo source: Utusan 1992)
Figure 3.28 Early Klang Shophouses.
(Photo source: Myforum 2012)

51
The Klang shophouses adopted the ‘Five-foot way’ concept
which was brought in by a chinese business magnate, Loke Yew
who was a famous businessman and philanthropist in British
Malaya. As the contractor and the developer of the pre-war
shophouse located at Jalan Raya Timur, Klang, Loke Yew
adapted the idea of connecting the shophouse with a covered
walkway, creating a continuous walkway on the inside and unified
facade on the outside. Hence, the pre-war shophouse in Klang
characteristically features a 5-foot walkway (kaki lima) or veranda
way.
These lots, which were constructed between 1890 and 1940,
made the area one of the busiest spots in southern Klang then.
Now, there are only 29 shophouses left along Jalan Stesen 1.
These old heritage shop lots painted in colourful colours are
conserved as historical buildings and were included as part of the
“Heritage Walk”. Subsequent decline of the town’s economy
resulted in the existence of only a handful of shops remaining that
are now functioning as commercial offices.
Figure 3.29 Public gathering in the 5-foot walkway
(Photo source: Blogtoexpress 2017)
Figure 3.30 The Klang Shophouses remains standing strong
and continue to serve for the local community.
(Photo source: Syafiq,2018)
3.1.4 Birth of shophouse in Klang

52
Early Style
First Transitional Style
Late Style
2nd Transition Style Modernism Style
Art Deco Style
Influx of Chinese
labourers into Malaysia
and settled in the
shophouses which
were built for them by
Straits Settlement.
Wealth from tin
mining enabled
upgrade of
decorative facades
and influence from
Western on deco
styles and materials.
Wealth from tin
mining enabled
upgrade of
decorative facades
and influence from
Western on deco
styles and materials.
Rubber profit
encouraged
elaborated
decorative.Material
catalogues and
shipping encouraged
import of glazed tiles
and cast iron.
Wealthy business
returning from oversea
schooling who are
exposed to Western
and Chinese popular
culture(Cinema) also
popularized Art-Deco
Architecture with
Shanghai plaster and
relief writing.
Post-war economic flourishes
resulted in building
development.Influence of
Western trained architect who
were influenced by early
modern movement.New
building technology and
reinforced concrete enabled
corner buildings and curved
balconies.
Figure 3.31 The Evolution of Shophouses in different time era.
(Diagram:By Wong Chee Fon)

53
Shophouse in general has a very unique identity and
characteristic that made it a very popular choice of urban
development in many states in Malaysia.These elements functions
together to play a very important role in the livings of the users
which particularly are the olden days chinese workers who
permanently resides in it.
Theses elements provide:
- Comfort, practicality and convenience together with the
buildings simple space organization.
- A trademark and popular guideline for a successful
building design.
- A flexible usage of space with strong adaptability to
different time of usage.
- Provides good ventilation and accessibility in the spaces
Figure 3.32 Axonometric Diagram of Shophouse with its
main Elements
(Diagram source: Eunice 2017)
3.1.5 Elements of the Shophouse

54
Terraced Shop Row
Shophouses are urban terraced buildings.They are built next to
each other without any gap or space in the between them along a
street. They are usually separated by party wall. At the front of the
building they are connected by the “five footway” which allows
and encourage people to walk along the continuous row of
shops.The terraced shophouse layout also promotes sense of
togetherness among the neighbours from the same row.
Narrow Fronts, Deep Rears
Shophouses have narrow street front sides,but extend backwards
in depths,which can extend all the way to the rear street.Due to
taxes, i.e. the idea that buildings were historically taxed according
to street frontage rather than total area, thereby shophouse are
build narrow and deep for economic reasons.Another reason is the
timber beams which carries the roof and floor loads of these
structures were supported by masonry party walls. The extent of
frontage was therefore affected by the structural span of the timber
used.While all shophouses appear, visually have similarly narrow
widths, they are not uniform and have minor variations especially
when comparing buildings built at different era,by different owners
and with different materials or technologies.
Figure 3.33 A row of pathway linked Shophouses
Figure 3.34 The long narrow Shophouse that stretches to the
back alley
(Photo source:Pinayflyinghigh, 2017)

55
Front Shophouse Facade
The front face of the shophouse faces the street and is a
identity for the shophouse for people to recognise or admire its
aesthetic resemblance. Facades from different architectural
eras will have different architectural aesthetic approach.With
rules and regulations set by local authorities,shophouse
Facade Colour & Ornamentation
Traditional shophouses has plastered an off-white colour.
Other popular early colours were indigo and ochre, given the
range of available pigments.
Traditional shophouses facade ornamentation draws inspiration
from the Malay, Chinese and European traditions. European
neoclassical motifs include egg and dart moldings and ionic or
Corinthian capitals on decorative pilasters.These ornaments
enhances the aesthetics of the building and at the same time
portrays the identity of the culture of the tenants.
Figure 3.35 Variety of
Facades style,
design and colour
(Photo source: Wong Chee Fon)
Figure 3.36 Clean plaster
facade with chinese
ornamentation

56
Columns
Located at the front facade,they support the upper floors and forms
the five-foot way colonnades.It is often also used to place sign
boards of the shop facing the front or sideway.
The column designs were also differ in eras but usually follows the
classical order with a bit of twist of European or Chinese
decoratives and materials. Columns usually reaches from the
ground floor to the roof as support.Words or drawings were
sometimes carved into the columns as identity and decoration with
influence from culture and activity of the location.
5-Foot Walkway
Five footway is one of the significant elements of a shophouse
which is a result from building regulation that requires a minimum
width in front of the shophouses.This covered pedestrian walkway
provides protection from the rain and sun along the road within the
shophouse property line for public use.
It helps to create a continuity and sense of unity to an urban
ensemble The human scale of the 5-foot walkway together with the
horizon or vertical uniformity creates an urban composition that is
unique and readily recognizable thus assisting in creating a dear
sense of place.
Figure 3.37 Decorated
Shanghai plaster column
accommodate functions and
decoration
(Photo source: Lionraw, 2014)
Figure 3.38 Continuous walkway
that provides not just
accessibility but also comfort and
other usages.

57
Pitched Roof
The common type of roofs that shophouses have is the pitched
roofs with timber structural frame and it is covered with clay roof
tiles or other types of roofings which were introduced later on like
metal or asbestos sheets
The whole shop house usually has two roofs which front and the
back. Jack roof is applied which is a smaller,upper roof overlaps
the main larger roof, leaving a void which is the airwell opening in
between them, allowing natural draught to enter. This cools the
heated roof and reduces the radiation that would otherwise
transmit the room below.
The interior ceiling is usually left uncovered revealing its structure
and joints but as time goes by, plasterboards are used to cover up
as protections from leakage and defects.
Figure 3.39 Top view of shophouse pitched roof
(Photo source:By 36 stewartlane, 2014)
Figure 3.40 Few types of roof tiling
(Photo source:36 stewartlane, 2014)

58
Rear Court
It is an open courtyard that located at the back the shophouse.
The function of this area is usually used for kitchen,store room
and toilet. It is bounded by the rear boundary wall, service block,
rear elevation of the shophouse and party wall.
The back door which is a important alternative to the front
entrance access or exit point is located in the rear
court.Although traditionally rear court are like a extended space
from the back only on the ground floor, some shophouse are
renovated to have the first floor extended out together with the
rear court and share the same back elevation wall
Figure 3.41(Left) Rear court not covered by first floor
Figure 3.42(Right) Rear court enclosed by first floor
(Photo source: Ghettosingapore, 2015)
Figure 3.43
(Photo source: Syafiq, 2018)

59
Party Wall
The party wall that act as a dividing partition between the
terraced shophouses. The purpose of the this party wall
established as sound and fire protection. It is also an important
load bearing structure that transfer the load of the building to
the foundation.
It is used to bear the heavy loads and also provide the security
and privacy for the tenants of shophouses. The most important
feature for the party wall is it acts as barrier to slow down the
fire from spreading in case of fire outbreak.Figure 3.44 A partially stretched of party wall

STREETS3.2

61
LOCATION PLAN
EXISTING BUILDINGS
For two centuries, beginning from the 16th, Klang was one of
the most important port and mining areas in the peninsula. This
have caused the migration of labourers from China to the
Klang for tin mining. They settled down here and started to do
their own small businesses here. This marked the starting point
of the construction of shophouses in Klang. These lots, which
were constructed between 1930 and 1940, made the area one
of the busiest spots in southern Klang then.
Wah Sang brothers is located among the shops in Jalan
Stesen (marked red) Among Jalan Stesen, there are two other
streets that accompanied through centuries in Klang. These
three streets has been one of the oldest streets in Klang,
following with Jalan stesen being the oldest of all three.
3.2 Streets
3.2.2 Location Plan and Existing Building
Figure 3.45 Location Plan
(Diagram source: Lindsay, 2018)
Figure 3.46 Colour coded blocks indicating
different building types

62
JALAN BESAR
The railway line from Kuala Lumpur to Klang was one of the first to be built in the
country, There has been a railway station at this site on Jalan Besar since 1890,
although the current building is much newer. This station is of a traditional design.
The name Jalan besar came into the picture because the street occupied one of
the main roads into the streets, therefore adapting the name to “big road”
JALAN SULTAN/JALAN TENGKU DIAUDDIN
Klang Railway Station was built in 1890. The road that intersects the station,
“Jalan Stesen” was named after it. The construction of the railway station has
promoted the economic growth in that area. As a response to that, businessmen
choose to build the shophouses near the railway station, facing the main street
which is “Jalan Stesen” in order to attract more customers.
Before it got its name as Jalan Tengku Diauddin, previously it is known as Jalan
Sultan due to its location being located on the same road directly connected to
Gedung Raja Abdullah. There were many jewellery and goldsmith shops that
influenced the street to be named after a symbolism of the King which was Jalan
Sultan.
JALAN STESEN
3.2 Streets
3.2.2 Jalan Besar, Jalan Stesen, Jalan Sultan Tengku Diauddin
Figure 3.47 Indication of Jalan Besar
Figure 3.48 Indication of Jalan Stesen
Figure 3.49 Indication of Jalan Sultan

JALAN STESEN3.3

64
Jalan Stesen underwent a series of transformation, from ordinary to
chaotic, to popular and then quiet. In 1930, there was a civil war
between the communities in Klang. The Malay princes, Raja Mahadi
and Raja Abdullah, were fighting over the rights to own the warehouse
which is now known as Gedung Raja Abdullah, located in front of the
police station which gathered a lot of Malays around the premise. At
that time, the Klang Bridge was not built yet and Jalan Stesen was
connected to the warehouse. Looking at the crowded scene, the
community decided to give Jalan Stesen the name ‘Malay Street’.
In 1941, the Japanese invaded and took over the Royal Klang Gallery
which was previously used by the British as administration centre. The
whole street was occupied by the Japanese community which gave
Jalan Stesen the name ‘the Japan Street’.
The street did not undergo any physical changes until 1950 when it
transformed from an ordinary street into a famous food street. Known
by the community as Wai Sek Gai (cantonese meaning food street),
it became a promenade for the Klang community as many F&B
businesses flourished there and it attracted a lot of people to visit the
street. Plus, there were only a few malls and cinema that the people in
Klang could go during the weekends. As more people came to visit
Jalan Stesen, people saw the opportunity to start their businesses in
and around the street, gradually diversifying the area.
Jalan Stesen : The Evolution in Nine Decades
3.3 Jalan Stesen
3.3.1 Street Morphology
Figure 3.50 The connection of
Gedung and Jalan Stesen (Diagram
source: Wong Chee Fon, 2018)
Figure 3.51 The Heart of
Malay Street
(Photo source: MBK, 2014)
Figure 3.52 Japanese Community
Jalan Stesen (Diagram source: Wong
Chee Fon, 2018)
Figure 3.53 Royal Klang
Gallery in the past (Photo
source: Google, 2013)
Figure 3.54 An almost entire row
of food stalls along Jalan Stesen
(Photo source: Anetizen, 2015)
Figure 3.55 An important food
street for the community
(Photo source: Lowyat 2010)

65
Seeing the potential of the streets to becoming a famous tourist
attraction in Klang, in 1960, the Klang Municipal Council took the
initiative to develop the streets. Law enforcement has requested
the shop owners to recess their shop houses 10 feet inwards as
the council wanted to widen the roads to make way for the
development. Despite the birth of new shophouse typology in the
adjacent streets which expresses Modern style shophouse
architecture, in Jalan Stesen, only a few shop houses were
reconstructed,resulting in a unique street morphology that
comprises of a mix of high rise and low rise shop lots.The linearity
that was established by aligning the five-foot walkway in a row is
also broken due to the unequal lengths of the shop houses.
The glory of Jalan Stesen did not last for over 30 years despite the
municipal’s initiative to upgrade the streets. This was due to two
factors: the development of Klang City Centre in the northern
Klang and inflation. In 1980, the Klang Bridge was built to connect
the southern part of Klang to the northern part where the new city
centre is located. The new town attracted people to move and
settled there, causing the streets to lose attention from the
community. Not only that, bridge also altered the circulation
around and to the streets, limiting the accessibility to the once
multi-accessible area. As a result, dispersion occurred and the
business there started to plummet.
Inflation that happened few years later further worsened the
business in Jalan Stesen because it led to a trend of migration,
especially among the Chinese community, to other countries for
better job opportunities. As the population of the street decreased,
many shops were closed down and gradually, Jalan Stesen was no
longer a promenade that was once crowded by the public. It was
left to age on its own.
Figure 3.56 The Klang Bridge that completely changed the fate of Jalan Stesen
(Photo source: The Star News, 2014)
Figure 3.57 The original flexible
circulation around jalan Stesen
(Diagram by: Wong Chee Fon, 2018)
Figure 3.58 The Klang Bridge
restricted flows and made it a one
way traffic (Diagram source: Wong
Chee Fon,2018)
Figure 3.59 Inflation and migration
happened in Jalan Stesen
(Diagram by: Wong Chee Fon, 2018)
Figure 3.60 Today, Klang has flourished
as an important business and urban
area (Photo source: Viralcham, 2017)

RECESSED AND ELEVATED
ORIGINAL SHOPHOUSES
Demolition and
reconstruction of some
shophouse which led to
shophouse with 3 floors
and a new modern
outlook.
The original shophouses with
the continuous 5-foot
walkway along the row still
remains its look since its
construction.
The recessed
shophouses
removes the 5-foot
walkway element
and exposes
sunlight along its
walkway
The traditional 5-foot
walkway provides good
shading and circulation
flow and other beneficial
alternative usages.
66
Figure 3.61 One of a few
recessed building where its
top floors are rented out as
office space. (Photo source:
Syafiq, 2018)
Figure 3.62 Shop lots recessed away
from the original shop house’s
continuous 5-foot walkway. (Photo
source: Syafiq, 2018)
Figure 3.63 One of a few recessed
building where its top floors are rented
out as office space. (Photo source:
Syafiq Deen,2018)
Figure 3.64 5- foot walkway
of Sykt Wah Sang Brothers.

67
Today, the street is a quiet lane with few operating
shophouses that are run by the older generation. Senior
citizens dominate the street and the lifestyle here is laidback
and slow-paced. Most of the upper level of the shophouses
here are unoccupied; the front street is used as parking lots
on both sides, and only accessible in one-way;the back alley
is quiet but surprisingly, peaceful and calming. The interplay
of light and shadow, together with the bright colors of the
buildings,give the alley an opportunity to become an art
destination that attracts the new generation to come visit.
The Klang City Council saw the potential and has launched a
rejuvenation project to restore Jalan Stesen to its former
glory. Murals that responds to the conditions of the walls
behind the shop houses were added as the first step of the
project. The history and typology of the shophouse has
brought new ideas that would attract the attention of the new
generation to startup their business here without having to
remove the existing community. Thanks to the typology of
the old shophouses where the staircases are located near
the rear court and that most of the upper floors are left
vacant, the shophouses can be utilised for new businesses
such as art galleries, new concept cafes and studios in
conjunction with the development of the back alley as an art
and cultural street, while allowing the businesses in the shop
front to be run without disturbance.
There will be a further discussion on the relationship between
the shophouses and the streets in the conclusion part in
Chapter 8.
The use of variance colours as
facade decorations attracts
tourist and brighten up the
street.
The traditional shophouse
typology is an important
essence of the street that
keeps it going from
generation to
generation.Its building
flexibility adapts to
changes well.
Parking lots
for visitor’s
convenience
which
promotes
more visits.
The modern
shophouse helps
adapt the streets to
modern typology
and benefits from its
larger space
volume.
Figure 3.65 Peaceful sight and parking
spaces in front of each shophouse
Figure 3.66 The variety of colours and
look of the shophouses brightens up
the street. (Photo source: Syafiq, 2018)
Figure 3.67 Axonometric view of Jalan Stesen
(Source: By Wong Chee Fon)

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