Applying Heritage Building Information Modelling for the Preservation of Melanau Longhouse

• Main Authors: Mohd. Anis Yaziq, Alimin, Salfarina, Abdul Gapor, Muhammad Ariff, Mat Saruan, Haris Fadzilah, Abdul Rahman, Rahmat, Moriat, Muhammad Oliver, Ensor Silini, Denilson Xavier, Fusheng
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: UTS Publisher 2023
• Subjects: DS Asia; NA Architecture
• Online Access: http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/45149/3/INHERIT%202023.pdf; http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/45149/
• Institution: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak

The Melanau longhouse, an exceptional example of Malaysian traditional architecture, has undergone significant transformations over time driven by various needs and cultural influences. This study focuses on longhouse development and highlights digital documentation approaches to safeguard its cultural importance. A qualitative method was used to incorporate comprehensive interviews and data from the architectural drawings. The analysis demonstrates that the building merges the Iban longhouse and Melanau tall house styles with the additional Malay elements introduced during the 1930s refurbishment. To protect and maintain a longhouse's tangible and intangible features, this study explores the application of measured drawings to building information Modelling (BIM). These approaches deliver all-inclusive documentation, facilitating condition tracking and assessment, spatial information support for upkeep, regulatory adherence and architectural forensics. This study emphasizes the significance of acknowledging historical contributions and implementing conservation management plans to preserve Malaysia's distinctive architectural heritage.