CONSERVATION

A breakthrough conservation attempt spearheaded by ATSA Architects has made it possible for this unique traditional Perak Malay mosque structure.  Abandoned for the past 20 years, the derelict structure, known to the Kampung Gajah in Perak folks as the Kampung Teluk Memali Mosque, was built in 1910, near the banks of the Perak River. The mosque has now been serving the local Muslim community of Taman Seri Bougainvillea in Bandar Seri Botani, Ipoh, Perak. 

Prior to the relocation work stage, timber identification test and dilapidation survey were conducted by the respective Malaysian Timber Industry Board (MTIB) and registered conservator consultants. The results of the study shown that the 108-year-old mosque was structurally sound, without many damaging and structurally defects. 

Later on, the dismantling work commenced with early preliminary works that involved site clearance and preparation, coding and numbering of each wooden component and the transfer of the old mimbar to a safer location. The dismantling works began on the next day with the relocation of the old kolah (ablution) tank to the new site using a crane and loader. 

Next, the workers started to disassemble building components carefully, beginning with the roof structure that consisted of zinc and asbestos free sheet roofing, fascia boards, purlins, rafters, trusses and so on. After the roof structure was completed, wall panels and tie beams were dismantled, followed by a series of columns, including the main and supporting columns. 

Furthermore, all bundled components were transported to the new site using lorry, which had been sorted according to their elements. For the next process of treatment and replacement of wood components, they were brought to a timber workshop located in Chemor, Perak, while some others were brought and stored on site, underneath a canopy tent. At the same time, new replacement timber components were made to order in a factory in Terengganu which was transported to the new site later.  

The final roof finish, the singgora tiles were laid on the roof structure, on top of the roof purlins. The reinstallation works then continued with internal and external works, such as the timber ceiling strips, decorative wall panels, painting works, fascia board, lattice arch, serambi and window balustrade, reconstruction of anjung and installation of timber flooring in the main prayer hall.

 

All of these works, including the construction of the new balai lintang and electrical wiring were finished in March 2017. While by September 2017, the toilet building and landscape elements were fully completed on site.