THE INFLUENCES OF THE KEDAH ROYAL SOCIO-CULTURE ON THE ISTANA PELAMIN, ALOR SETAR

Abstract

Istana Pelamin, Kedah used to be a residential palace since 1735 and renowned as a ceremonial palace after the grand wedding in 1904. Several renovations have been made to adapt to the different functions of the spaces towards the grand wedding ceremony. Thus, this study aims to determine the socio-culture of the Kedah royalty that influenced the architecture and the spatial organization of the Istana Pelamin. This study conducted a qualitative methodology study such as the literature review, interview, and case study. The findings indicate that the socio-culture of the Kedah royalty, namely the activity system, privacy, family structure, and role and tradition of women, have influenced the architecture and space organization of the palace. The space organization of the Istana Pelamin is consistent with traditional Malay architecture in terms of its linear organization, open layout, and division of domains, as it was built originally for the Sultan and his mother. This study contributes to understanding the relationship between the socio-culture of the royalty and the palace’s architecture. It also increases the awareness of royal customs and the importance of preserving the heritage building.