TIMELESS TREASURES: THE JOURNEY OF RUMAH WARISAN UWAN ROBAH (RUWUR)

Ummi Salwa Ahmad Bustamam; Nuruliza Roslan; Khairunneezam Bin Mohd Noor; Izawati Binti Wook; Suria Hani Ab Rahman; Norsimaa Mustaffa

Authors

Ummi Salwa Ahmad Bustamam Faculty of Economics and Muamalat, University Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM)
Nuruliza Roslan Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM)
Khairunneezam Bin Mohd Noor Faculty of Leadership and Management, University Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM)
Izawati Binti Wook Faculty of Law, University Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM)
Suria Hani Ab Rahman Faculty of Leadership and Management, University Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM)
Norsimaa Mustaffa Faculty of Leadership and Management, University Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM)

Keywords:

conservation, heritage, strategic direction, Business Model Canvas, socio-economic development

Abstract

The unique architectural heritage of Negeri Sembilan, one of the 14 states in Malaysia, is influenced by Minangkabau culture and is a significant aspect of the state's identity. This study highlights the Negeri Sembilan state's initiatives, with a special heritage conservation grants launched in 2021 for 10 selected houses/buildings in Negeri Sembilan. The objective of this study is to analyse the impact of this initiative including identifying issues in the conservation projects and suggesting methods to increase the heritage buildings' value. The methodology involves collecting primary and secondary data through mixed methods. Stakeholders were engaged through survey, semi-structured interview sessions and focus group discussion (FGD). The researchers ultimately employ thematic and interpretive analysis to derive meaningful insights, with Generative AI being utilized for qualitative data analysis (QDA). This particular paper highlights the findings of Rumah Warisan Uwan Robah (RuWUR), as one of the houses/buildings who received the special heritage conservation grant by Negeri Sembilan. It is presented as a case study of RuWUR, with a proposed Business Model Canvas (BMC) for its sustainability in heritage conservation. The study found the imperative for collaborative endeavours among diverse stakeholders, including governmental entities, non-profit organizations and local communities, to secure the legacy of heritage sites such as RuWUR. Ultimately this case study offers practical recommendations to improve conservation efforts and support the state's decision-making in conserving its cultural and historical heritage as part of the government’s socio-economic development initiatives.

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