MELAKA: The Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB) has taken decisive action by issuing a stop-work order to the proprietor of a significant heritage building located on Jalan Tokong. This move comes after it was discovered that ongoing renovation efforts were not only unauthorized but also detrimental to the historical integrity of the structure, a cornerstone of the citys rich cultural heritage.

MBMB Mayor Datuk Shadan Othman provided details regarding the order during a conversation on Thursday, April 17. He explained that the directive to cease all construction activities was issued on March 12 following an inspection by his team, which revealed that the renovation works had deviated from the approved plans.

We have issued a directive to halt any work at the building after discovering the renovation violated the heritage regulations, Shadan emphasized. The mayor pointed out that the materials used in the construction were also in violation of established guidelines pertaining to heritage preservation. Consequently, MBMB has mandated an immediate cessation of all renovation activities.

We have specific guidelines on materials, building heights, and faade elements for heritage buildings, he elaborated, underscoring the importance of adhering to these regulations to maintain the historical significance of the site.

In light of the situation, the matter will be escalated to the state heritage committee meeting in the near future. We will look into the next course of action against the owner for violating heritage regulations after the matter has been tabled to the committee, he stated, indicating that the council is committed to ensuring compliance with heritage laws.

Shadan's comments come in response to growing concerns from local tourism stakeholders, who have expressed anxiety regarding the unauthorized renovation work. The significance of proper restoration practices is paramount for preserving the aesthetic and historical value of Melakas heritage sites, especially as the city is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Renovations within these UNESCO core sites are governed by stringent regulations, including the Melaka Cultural Heritage Conservation and Restoration Enactment of 1988, along with additional guidelines provided by UNESCO itself. These regulations are designed to protect Melaka's unique architectural heritage, which attracts numerous visitors each year.

The Melaka World Heritage Site is divided into two distinct zones: the Core Zone, which spans approximately 45.3 hectares, and the Buffer Zone, covering around 242.8 hectares. The Core Zone features important historical locations, including St Pauls Hill and surrounding residential areas such as Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Jalan Hang Jebat (popularly known as Jonker Street), Jalan Kampung Kuli, Jalan Tukang Emas, Jalan Tokong, Jalan Tukang Besi, and Jalan Kampung Pantai.

Meanwhile, the Buffer Zone, which serves to protect the Core Zone, includes streets like Jalan Kubu, Jalan Bunga Raya, Jalan Kampung Jawa, Jalan Bendahara, and Jalan Temenggong. The careful delineation of these zones has been pivotal in ensuring that heritage conservation efforts align with international standards while promoting sustainable tourism.