EXPLORING THE MOORISH AND MUGHAL STYLES OF COLONIAL BUILDINGS IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

Malaysian architecture has undergone significant changes over time, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the country's rich cultural history. During the era of British Malaya, there was a convergence of diverse foreign architectural styles, including Moorish and Mughal architectural elements that are encompassed within Islamic architectural traditions. This evolution of influences significantly shaped the design of public structures, leaving a lasting and intricate imprint on the cultural heritage of the nation, albeit sometimes leading to a complex blend that could create confusion. The study aims to identify Moorish and Mughal architectural styles that influenced the design of colonial public buildings in Malaysia. To achieve this, a historical analysis approach has been employed as the research methodology. By delving into secondary sources, the initial phase of the research involves comprehending the history of Moorish and Mughal architecture and their specific adaptations to the design of public buildings. This is followed by a comparative investigation into the architectural components utilized within these buildings. The findings established a systematically comprehensive review, providing accurate insights into the architectural styles of the selected buildings. Through this research, it will be possible to discern the extent to which Moorish and Mughal architecture influenced most colonial buildings in Malaysia.