The front view of Sultan Abu Bakar Museum in Pekan.
It was once an old, derelict colonial building but now the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum in Pekan is a remarkable result and a great example of the dedication and hard work by the Pahang State Museum Corporation (PSMC) to preserve and conserve historical materials in the state.
The preservation work on the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum is tastefully done, featuring clean lines and contemporary design that do not compromise its original ornate pillars and style, while still remaining a people-friendly resource centre.”
It has come a long way since its first inception in 1975, then known as Pahang State Museum Board, clearly showing that the restoration plan has become more structured and systematic.
A view of the Sultan Abdullah Mosque Museum in Pekan, Pahang with the lush garden aimed at engaging the community and providing enrichment on heritage and culture. — Photos: Perbadanan Muzium Negeri Pahang
PSMC is a state agency that has continued to explore new ideas and methods in collecting and distributing historical facts to the public. It views conservation as an undertaking to preserve priceless antiquities, such as old buildings, from destruction and to prolong their lifespan so that these heritage structures remain relevant and appreciated by future generations.
Some of the components in the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Royal Museum Complex, Kuantan such as the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and the Royal Library are among the earliest buildings that have been restored and preserved.
MOCA is now hosting a solo exhibition by renowned painter Syed Thajudeen Shaikh Abu Talib titled Weaving Love And Faith that ends in February 2025.
The Museum of Contemporary Art in Kuantan.
Built between 1910 and 1912, the buildings have neo-colonial structures and are described as having high historical values in terms of architectural and structural aspects.
The country gained independence 67 years ago and has since witnessed many, many skyscrapers and modern buildings constructed, in the name of development and global progress.
As such, it is imperative to have a proper and structured plan for conservation work on old and heritage buildings in the country aimed at protecting historical heritage and culture.
One of the old traditional Pahang houses that have been restoredat the Tunku Azizah Royal Craft Village in Pulau Keladi, Pekan.
Research and study are also conducted so information and knowledge can be shared with the public and in the process, help to instil passion in one’s own culture.
At the same time, these efforts can help boost the tourism industry.
As for PSMC restoration work on Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Royal Museum Complex, Kuantan, it is not only about renewing the old glory but it is also about repurposing the functions and roles.
The first phase of restoration development started in 1975 with the inception of Pahang State Museum Board, an idea mooted by the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, the country’s second prime minister who was born in Pekan, Pahang.
Tun Abdul Razak Hussein’s birthplace house.
In the following year, Istana Kota Beram in Pekan was declared the state’s first museum and named Sultan Abu Bakar Museum.
Subsequently, the second phase commenced in 2009 when a museum was seen as an important feature in heritage, education and tourism. The East Coast Economic Regional Development Council (ECERDC) set aside an allocation to rebrand Sultan Abu Bakar Museum with a concept of a museum in a garden, named “The Intelektual Garden”.
It turns the museum grounds into an open activity space as well as a relaxation space for visitors. Exhibitions will also emphasise on historical and cultural heritage of communities in the state and country.
PSMC also aimed to make Sultan Abu Bakar Museum a reference and data collection centre on all things related to culture, arts and heritage.
In 2015, the third phase began, focusing on strengthening and accelerating the development of museums in education, conservation, security, collection and exhibitions as well as expanding and increasing activities for the local and international community.
The components involved in this phase are Sultan Abu Bakar Museum, Sultan Abdullah Mosque Museum, Pulau Beram Museum, Tunku Azizah Royal Craft Village, Istana Manggal Tunggal, Istana Leban Tunggal, which are all located in Pekan and Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Royal Museum Complex in Kuantan.
