Exploring Malay Cultural Heritage through the Damnah Palace
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31629/jgbr.v1i1.7350Keywords:
Damnah Palace, Malay Heritage, Cultural Identity, Historical PreservationAbstract
The Damnah Palace, a significant cultural landmark in Malay history, offers a rich source of insight into the region’s architectural, social, and political heritage. Despite its historical importance, limited research has been conducted to explore its role in preserving Malay cultural traditions. This study aims to examine the architectural and cultural significance of the Damnah Palace, focusing on its design, historical context, and impact on local Malay identity. The objectives are to understand how the palace embodies the Malay worldview and serves as a symbol of authority, heritage, and social cohesion. The research employs a qualitative approach, combining historical analysis with architectural examination of the palace's structure, decoration, and spatial organization. Primary data is sourced from archival materials, oral histories, and site visits, complemented by secondary literature on Malay history and heritage. The findings reveal that the Damnah Palace was not only a political center but also a symbol of cultural continuity, reflecting the fusion of traditional Malay values with external influences. Its architectural elements, such as the use of indigenous materials and symbolic designs, highlight the palace's role as a cultural repository. The study concludes that the Damnah Palace plays a vital role in preserving Malay heritage, offering valuable insights into the intersection of architecture, culture, and identity. As a living heritage, the palace continues to serve as a symbol of Malay pride and resilience in the face of modernization.
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