As the rainy season and flood season approach in Malaysia, it makes me reflect on the wisdom and brilliance of traditional Malay house design, particularly the raised structures that were so thoughtfully constructed by the old carpenters.
During times like these, when heavy rain and floods are a constant concern, it becomes clear just how much foresight these carpenters had.
They crafted homes that were perfectly adapted to the tropical climate, providing not only shelter from the elements but also long-term comfort and protection.
I wanted to share the unique aspects of these traditional homes because the current weather makes us appreciate how these homes, built centuries ago, were ingeniously designed to handle the challenges of Malaysia’s rainy seasons.
Malay traditional houses are elevated on stilts, which helps protect them from flooding, and their natural ventilation keeps them cool even in the heat.
The design of these houses shows how skillfully the carpenters combined form, function, and respect for nature.
Malay houses in the past were generally designed without rooms because the Malay society at the time prioritized gatherings and communal events for celebrations and religious ceremonies.
The spaces in a traditional Malay house include the anjung (veranda or porch), serambi (front porch), selasar (walkway), rumah ibu (main house), bilik (room), serambi dalam (inner porch), dapur (kitchen), pelantar (platform), and jemuran (drying area), as well as the space under the house.
In terms of design, Malay houses are remarkably sophisticated, incorporating smart features that fit perfectly with a comfortable lifestyle in harmony with customs and nature.
These smart features include natural ventilation, shading, security, and privacy. One of the most noticeable characteristics of traditional Malay houses is that they are built on stilts.
This ‘floating’ feature provides several advantages, such as protection from wild animals and elevating the house above flood levels.
The raised structure also ensures the house stays cooler due to airflow from all sides (above, below, and around).
The empty space beneath the house, often called polong, serves as a useful storage area for tools and equipment.
The Malay house features a variety of window designs, including large windows like the ‘French window,’ which allow airflow and light to enter the house.
Ornamental carvings, often featuring geometric or plant-based motifs (due to religious restrictions on animal motifs), not only serve as decoration but also promote the flow of air and light, enhancing the ambiance of the home.
Each state in Malaysia showcases its unique roof styles, though after colonization, roof shapes evolved to include the Dutch gable roof.
The Genius of Traditional Malay House Design
Malay traditional houses reflect the deep wisdom and skill of old carpenters, who, without the use of modern technology, crafted homes that were perfectly suited for Malaysia’s tropical climate, which includes both heavy rain and intense heat.
The most evident brilliance in these designs is how the houses stay cool.
The elevated structure allows airflow from underneath, which keeps the house naturally ventilated.
The windows, which often dominate the facade, are designed to optimize airflow, maintaining a cool interior even during the hottest days.
The open spaces in the carvings serve to let in light while ensuring air circulates freely.
The roofs are another impressive feature. Built with a steep pitch to handle heavy rain, they ensure that water runs off quickly and does not pool.
Traditional materials like palm leaves and clay tiles provided insulation from the heat, ensuring that the interior remained cool. Unfortunately, many modern homes use metal roofing, which, while affordable, often leads to overheating.
Old carpenters had a deep understanding of the environment, creating homes that were both functional and comfortable without the need for modern conveniences like air conditioning.
10 Unique Features and Advantages of Malay Houses:
1. Raised Structure:
Built on stilts to prevent flooding and keep out wild animals.
2. Natural Ventilation:
Cooling breeze flows through the house from all sides.
3. Privacy:
Strategic placement of spaces ensures privacy, especially for women.
4. Ornate Carvings:
Functional decorations that also allow light and air to pass through.
5. Flexible Space:
The open layout allows for easy modification and use of space for gatherings.
6. Sloped Roof:
Designed to handle Malaysia’s heavy rainfall, preventing leaks and damage.
7. Locally Sourced Materials:
Sustainable building materials like palm leaves and wood provided natural insulation.
8. Cool in Hot Weather:
The combination of raised floors, open windows, and sloping roofs keeps the interior cool.
9. Spacious Outdoor Area:
Ideal for communal activities and gatherings, often shaded for comfort.
10. Cultural Harmony:
The design reflects the cultural importance of family, gatherings, and respect for elders.
The traditional Malay house exemplifies how much old carpenters understood their environment.
With Malaysia’s tropical climate characterized by monsoon rains and hot sunny days, the carpenters created homes that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and enduring.
By building houses that “breathe” naturally, they ensured comfort without the need for artificial cooling systems.
These homes remain a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the old carpenters, whose work has withstood the test of time.
