SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING & DESIGN BACHELOR IN QUANTITY SURVEYING & ARCHITECTURE ( SEM 1 ) SUBJECT : TAMADUN ISLAM DAN ASIA (MPU3123) LOCATION : CHENG HOON TENG TEMPLE, MALACCA LECTURER : Ms.Fadhilah Raihan Lokman NAME STUDENT’S ID Muhammad Fareez Bin Shahar Sham 0322961 Muhammad Mirza Qayyum Bin Mohd Shariff 0324031 Muhammad Nazmi Bin Kamarulzaman 0322251 Ng Chuan Kai 0323738 Ng Kwang Zhou 0322802 Ng Jer Vain 0326969 Ng Sheng Zhe 0323830 Ng Ji Yann 0323713 Ng Yeen Mun 0323804
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SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING & DESIGN BACHELOR IN QUANTITY SURVEYING & ARCHITECTURE ( SEM 1 )
As an acknowledgement, we would like to thank and acknowledge the help and support of everyone who were involved in this assignment. This assignment would not have been successfully completed without the patience and passions given in by everyone. First, we would like to thank our lecturer, Ms. Fadhilah for her effort in preparing the lecture notes and videos so that we could understand our subject better. Through her guidance and explanation in our assignment, we could understand our assignment and complete it in an easy and efficient way. Besides, we would like to thank our group members who are willing to fetch us to Melaka so that we could do our research and take photos of the site we had chosen. Without them, getting to the destination of our chosen site would be troublesome and problematic. Lastly, we would like to thank our group members for their contributions in this assignment. Their sacrifice, effort and time given were the keys to finalizing this assignment within a limited time period.
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TABLE OF CONTENT
No. Title Page
1. Acknowledgements 1
2. Table Of Content 2
3. Introduction 3
4. Objectives Of The Study 5
5. Research Findings 7
6. Travel Journal 18
7. Conclusion 30
8. Appendixes 31
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INTRODUCTION
This is the only assignment for the Tamadun Islam Dan Tamadun Asia module, which is to be completed in a group. Below is the list of group members for our group:
1. Muhammad Fareez Bin Shahar Sham 2. Muhammad Mirza Qayyum Bin Mohd Shariff 3. Muhammad Nazmi Bin Kamarulzaman 4. Ng Chuan Kai 5. Ng Jer Vain 6. Ng Ji Yann 7. Ng Kwang Zhou 8. Ng Sheng Zhe 9. Ng Yeen Mun
The task that we were assigned to complete is to provide a group report on historical
sites in Malaysia. It is compulsory for all groups to arrange a site visit to the historical site and it is completely up to us to select any site that we wish as long as it fulfils the requirements of this assignment, which in this case the site has to have a significant historical background.
After having a discussion with each and every one of our group members, we have finally decided choose Chinese civilisation as our topic and we have also selected the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple located in Malacca as the historical site of our choice. After getting the approval of our lecturer, Ms. Fadhilah Raihan Lokman, we got to work by arranging a suitable date for our site visit to Malacca. We agreed to have the visit on the 16th of April and thankfully everything went by smoothly for us. Immediately after our visit, we divided a section of the report that is to be completed by each member.
For this part of the report, basically this is the introduction of the Chinese civilization and also about our site. The Yellow River is said to be the cradle of Chinese civilization, although cultures originated at various regional centers along both the Yellow River and Yangtze River alleys millennia ago in the Neolithic era. With thousands of years of continuous history, China is one of the world's oldest and most technologically advanced civilisation, and is regarded as one of the cradles of civilisation.
As for the introduction of our site, the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is known as Malaysia’s oldest temple and is also known as Kwan Yin Teng to the local people in Malacca as the main deity revered is Kwan Yin, which is the Goddess of Mercy. The left altar is dedicated to Ma Choe Po (Guardian of fisherman and seaman) and the deities on the right altar are Datuk Poh Seng Tye Tay (Tye Tor Kong) and Datuk Hiap Tian Tye Tay (Kwan Ti God of Justice).From the records of the stone tablets which was found in the temple, the temple was first built by the Chinese Kapitan Tay Kie Ki alias Tay Hong Yong in the 1600s
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OBJECTIVES The task of this project is to select a historical sites based on Malay Civilization , Islamic Civilization, Indian Civilization , Chinese Civilization and PreHistoric period of Malaysia. The location could be historical sites , historical buildings or any historical religious monuments. After choosing a historical sites , we are required to do a site visit on the historical sites and produce a report . Learning Outcome On successful completion of this project , we will be able to demonstrate the following: 1.Able to describe the historical development of human civilization. 2.Able to recall the development of Asia human civilization in the past as well as present. 3.Able to demonstrate good documentation and presentation skills. 4.Able to develop skills of data gathering. 5.Able to comunicate and coorporation well with others members. 6.To communicate the relevant ideas in a clear ways. 6.Undertake leadership roles and make quality decisions in the context.
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RESEARCH FINDING OF CHENG HOON TENG TEMPLE
During our visit at the Cheng Hoon Teng temple at Melaka we as a group were tasked to make a research about the most oldest temple in Malaysia and now is also known as Kwan Yin Teng .Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is one of the most notable landmarks in Malacca. Set near the Hindu temple Sri Pogyatha Vinoyagar along Jalan Hang Lekiu (in Jonker Street) this Chinese temple is billed as the oldest Buddhist place of worship in the country. Built in 1646, it is also known as the ‘Merciful Cloud Temple’. We found out some interesting findings about the temple and we learn many things about the Chinese civilization from this temple with its history : 1.Structure of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
The main prayer hall of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple has a weighty saddled roof, domineering dark timber beams and beautiful carved woodwork. Smaller chambers devoted to ancestor worship are prominent throughout the temple: these rooms are filled with tablets bearing photographs of the deceased. Check out the wads of fake money and papiermâché models of luxury items which are used as symbols of creature comforts for the dead. All building materials for the temple, and even the artisans concerned with its construction, were brought in from China.
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2. History of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
Cheng Hoon Teng was founded in the 1600s by the Chinese Kapitan Tay Kie Ki alias Tay Hong Yong. During the Portuguese and Dutch eras, Kapitans were appointed chiefs or headmen of the various ethnic communities.In 1824, the British abolished the Kapitan system and the leader of the Temple, now known as "Teng Choo", assumed some of the Kapitan's responsibilities.
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RESEARCH FINDING OF CHENG HOON TENG TEMPLE
Below shows the map of Malacca and the location of the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple.
THE COMING OF THE CHINESE TO MALACCA Malacca is a wonderful place which rich in history and it used to be the original capital of an
ancient Malay Kingdom. Once upon a time before Columbus discovered America, a Ming
Emperor's envoy had arranged China's first trade arrangement with Malacca. Following that visit
trade grew throughout the country. While the Chinese was doing trade, they bought along their
culture, custom and art to this peninsula. The influence can be easily seen in many existing old
temples and landmarks. One of the oldest temple located in Malacca is Cheng Hoon Teng
Temple. The relationship of China and Malacca was very close. In the 15th Century the Sultan
of Malacca sent an ambassador to the court of Peking, returning with the emperor's daughter as
a wifely gift to the Sultan. The princess and her retinue of hand maiden were given the "Bukit
China" as a residence. Some of the oldest Chinese relics extants in Malaysia are found on the
hill which, together with Bukit Gedong and Bukit Tempurong, form one of the largest Chinese
burial grounds outside of China.
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HISTORY OF THE TEMPLE
Cheng Hoon Teng was founded in the 1600s by the Chinese Kapitan Tay Kie Ki alias Tay Hong
Yong. During the Portuguese and Dutch eras, Kapitans were appointed chiefs or headmen of
the various ethnic communities.
In its early years, besides serving the community's religious needs, the temple also functioned
as the official administrative centre and a court of justice for the Kapitans.
Besides Kapitan Tay, other prominent Kapitans included Li Wei King, Chan Lak Kua and Chua
Su Cheong. Kapitan Chua was responsible for rebuilding the temple in 1801 while the Kapitans
and Teng Choos after him contributed towards the aesthetic and structural additions of the
building.
In 1824, the British abolished the Kapitan system and the leader of the Temple, now known as
"Teng Choo", assumed some of the Kapitan's responsibilities.
Subsequently, a Board of Trustees was formed to look after the temple. The pioneers included
included Tun Sir Tan Cheng Lock, who also initiated the Temple’s unique incorporation under
an act of Parliament {Cheng Hoon Teng Temple Incorporation Ordinance 1949}. To the locals,
the temple is also known as Kebun Datok (Gods' Garden) and Kwan Yin Teng.
In this temple the Chinese of Malacca have been practising three religious systems known as
BUDDHISM, CONFUCIANISM and TAOISM. They have been worshiping here for over than 2
300 years ago. The people we see praying here are mainly EUKIENE5E from South China and
others are from Kwantung. Kwan . Shih Yin to all Chinese is the ideal of feminine grace and
virtue. But Kwan Yin represents only one ideal for the Chinese. For that matter they worship
Confucian and practise Taosim in the same temple. The Cheng Hoon Teng Temple has been
under the authority and guidance of eleven "Kapitan China" of the ancient settlement, then of
seven Teng Choos and latterly of a Board of SU TAI LEES" or four Managing Trustees. The
founder of this temple was Li Kup short for Captains, whose full name was Li Wei King, and with
whom was associate Tay Kup with the unabbreviated appellation of Tay Kie Ki, alias Tay Hong
Yong. Both Tay Kup and Li Kup were successively appointed by the Dutch as the Kapitan China
or Chief of the Nalaccan Chinese with authority to deal with all matters of civil jurisdiction and to
refer those of weightier concern to the Dutch governor. Both the title and system were of
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Portuguese origin, adopted by then to enforce and maintain law and order. The Cheng Hoon
Teng was not only a religious and welfare centre but also became the official headquarters of
Captain Tay and his successors Chan Ki Lock one of the successors made big extension to
the temple to house KwanShiYin, the goddess of mercy and give the temple its present shape.
After the Permanent British occupation of Malacca in 1824, the office of the Kapitan China was
abolished. To replaced the functionary the people resorted to the plan of creating the dignity of
"Teng Choos" i.e. the Presidents of the Cheng Hoon Teng which was tantamount to being the
head of the Chinese Community in Malacca. This oldest temple has under its control and
management a group of six other temples in Malacca, consecrated to nonBuddhist duties.
(i) Wah Chuan Tian Temple
(ii) Wah Teck Kiong Temple
(iii) Cheng Wah Kiong Temple
(iv) Poh San Teng Temple
(v) Geok Ee Kiong Temple
(vi) Kioh Kang Bio Temple
Retrived from : http://www.chenghoonteng.org.my
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"MATERIALS USED & ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF A CHINESE TEMPLE" In the study of this old Chinese temple one should know the basic principles or characteristic of
Chinese architecture. The Cheng Hoon Teng Temple the oldest in Malaysia is approximately
300 years old. The elements found on this building demonstrate the early Chinese Architecture.
The individual buildings can be thought of as divided into a number of elements, elements which
are kept aesthetically distinct by Chinese architects. The podium or base of hard rammed earth
is used for humbler buildings, while podium of stone or brick for the grandeur buildings. The
columns rested on the podium were usually made of timber, but stone and marbles are
sometime mixed with the timber. Another fascinating characteristic of the Chinese architecture is
the method of roof construction. Instead of following the traditional triangular system which is
rigid, they designed it in such a way that it gives freedom in the roof line. The relative position of
the purlins, which control this could be varied so as to be either in the straight line or at any
required curve. The straight roof lines indicates humbler buildings while the curve roof lines
indicates more importance. The climate of China consist of winter and summer. During the
summer the sun is strong, penetrating deep into the temple thus by having the long cantilevered
eaves the sun rays penetration is kept to the minimum. In winter the sun is low thus permitting
the sun to warm the interior of the temple despite the eaves. The eaves is an important element
of the Chinese Architecture in China. With their long overhang supported by toukung or brackets
.Roofs forms were of four types:
(i) the gable end
(ii) the hipped
(iii) fehshai hipped
(iv) the halfhipped and the half gabled.
Proportion of Columns, toukung bracket arrangement and many were determined by rules,
though numerous were all parts of a known REPERTOIRE so that the main pass of the
building could be erected without detailed drawings, only from description and specification of a
typical bay, The walls and partition in most Chinese building were not used to support any load
they were merely screens. One of the most interesting qualities of a Chinese Architecture the
whole building is designed in color as well as in form. The functional basis of painting is the
protection of the timber members from decay and parasites attacks. The aesthetic aim was that
the members played a major part in a totally polychromatic building. The actual colour varied
and their general distribution was: enclosing walls and basic walls, if plastered and not left in
natural material has one color" only either red, white, yellow or black. Columns are usually in
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one color often, sometimes white. The roofs are also in one colour throughout including the
decorative and symbolic ornament at the ridges and eaves.
ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTER PAILOU The Pailau of this old temple is a typical example of the type in China. The pailau bear a family
resemblance to the Toranas of India and the Torii in Japan and were erected by special
authority as memorial to deceased persons of distinction. They were constructed of wood or
stone and has one or three openings, formed by parts supporting horizontal rails bearing an
inscription and often crowned with bold projecting roofs of symbolic coloured tiles. The Pai Lou
seen in this temple marks the entrance to one temple.
ORNAMENT Chinese ornament expresses national characteristics. All Eastern nation appear to have a
natural instinct for colour, and the Chinese are no exception. Colour schemes form an integral
part of Chinese Architecture, roofs are covered with brightly glazed tiles in symbolic colours
while the outstanding ridges and hips are emphasized with highly coloured dragons, fishes and
grotesque figures in glazed terralotta. Coloured ornament is applied to building in the form of
enamelled glazed tiles, painted woodwork, landscape and figure subjects. The Chinese excel in
the minor arts, in silk, cotton weaving, in carving of wood and ivory and in porcelain ware. The
Buddhist religion encouraged their love of mystery and symbolism, and the great yellow dragon
and the tiger were freely introduced into decorative colour schemes.
ROOFS The roof is the principal features of the Chinese building 7 and contrast strongly with the Greek,
Roman and Renaissance styles, in which they try to hide away the roof. Whereas the Chinese
roofridges are laden with elaborate ornamental cresting and the uptilted angles are finished of
with fantastic dragon and grotesque ornaments. It's considered a sign of dignity to place roofs
one over the other, and this system also serves to protect the interior from extremes of heat.
The purlins of the roofs in the Cheng Hoon Teng temples are supported by the thick walls at
both ends and by the columns at intervals.
COLUMNS Chinese building procedure as applied to Columns is peculiar, and is the reverse of that in other
countries, for instead of first raising the columns and framing the superstructure upon them, the
Chinese first made the framework of the roof and that determined the position of the columns,
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while the rigidity of the framework and roof beams should be tenoned direct at the various
height into the shaft, without capitals. The roof beams were supported by brackets.
CHENG HOON TENG ARCHITECTURAL POINT OF VIEW" This temple is a typical example of a Chinese Architecture as described earlier. At a distance it
seems that the temple is painted in red throughout. As we gets closer, the enclosing walls were
of white plastered. This enclosing walls is 9" thick give protection to the temple against attack
and thieves. The entrance to the interior is through a main gate Pai Lau and two other small
openings one on each side of the main gate. The Pai Lou is a typical of Chinese Architecture
and is fully decorated as demonstrated by brackets designed to support the roof structures. The
roof covering is of ced Chinese tiles and the ridge line is fully decorated with carvings and is
ornamented. Moon shaped window opening with carvings on either sides of the Pai Lau are
characteristics of the Chinese architecture. As one step into the temple area we would find that
the main temple is surrounded by four open courtyards . The roof line runs parallel to the pai
lau. Red tiles covered the roofs supported by purlins and tiles battens. The tiles are arranged
neatly and beautifully as shown in the photos. The roofs of the main temple also runs parallel to
each other and their ridges are fully ornamented. As already mentioned the roofs are not of the
traditional triangular system but were designed in such a way that it allows expansion In plate
13 shows the round timber purlins placed on the rafter, it’s supported by the beautifully carved
brackets. Due to the two struts of the rafters the tile battens can be curved and thus the whole
roof is of a barrel shape. The size of the purlin is 6 inches diameter and the tile battens of
2HMxl" spaced at 2" apart. The tiles can be seen from below through the battens. Plate 15
shows how highly decorated is the roof structures of the porch of the main temple. Carvings of
leaves and flowers on the brackets, together with paintings on the timber beams enhanced the
beauty of the temple. The height of the porch is about fifteen feet (from floor to the beams). The
Columns is of timber above and concrete below is 10' 8" centre to centre. They are 11 inch by
11 inch in dimension. The walls were made of burnt clay bricks 10"x4"x2" thick standard size.
The wall of the main temple is massively constructed with 1'6" thicla. The bricks are then
plastered both internally as well as externally. White paint is applied on to the plaster. At the
back of the temple the wall is decorated with some painting as shown in plate 16. The walls or
rather screens of the front facade of the main temple is made of timber planks. Chengai timber
is used here, carved with flowers and leaves and varnished to protect against decay. Chinese
hand writings also form as a. decorative elements on the door. Note that the door to the main
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temple comprises of one main entrance and two other secondary doors, one on each side.
These three doors are square headed. There are another two small semicircular headed door
at the side of the temple. Light enters into the temple through these doors and the small
openings in between the carvings. There is no windows or other openings required to light the
area. The dim atmosphere in the temple gives the feelings of concentration and respects.
FLOOR PLAN OF CHEN HOON TENG TEMPLE
PLAN VIEW
The floor plan above shows the space and the position arrangement of the Chen Hoon Teng
temple.The number that located in the boxes shows the position of the goodness located in the
temple and left side are the name list of the goodness in the temple.
"PLANNING OF THE TEMPLE" The temple occupies an area of 49,510 sq. ft including the theatre at the front. The theatre was
designed for religious purposes. As shown in the plan the temples consists of Main Temple
surrounded by open courts, with two smaller temples one on each side and at the back is the
cave. The Pai Lau marks the main entrance to the temple. As one step into the temple through
the Pai Lau he will have to cross the front open court before could reach the porch of the Main
Temple. The main temple is the place to house the goddess of Mercy Kwan Shih Yin, Kwan Ti,
the god of war and for Machoe Poh the queen of heaven as,the special guardian of sailors,
fishermen and voyagers on the high seas. The main temple has a spacious room without any
partitions, the only partition to be found is used to separate the different gods from one another.
Smaller compartments to house other dieties are found on each side of the main temple
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separated from the main building by open courtyards. At the back of the main temple are found
two halls meant for the housing of the stone monuments and other Ancestral Tablet. One of the
hall as shown in the plan is for the upper class Chinese while the other is for the poorer or
ordinary folks. In between the two halls is a cave like area, The memorial Hall is located at the
left hand corner of the rear side of the temple. This is the place where the newly deceased soul
is placed and respected by families, relatives and friends. Photos of the deceased are placed
here for a period of one year. Plate 5 shows the hall being prepared and decorated. Beside the
memorial hall is the residential apartments of the monks. The Ceremonial Hall is a new addition.
This is true in a sense that the application of the different technique of construction and the use
of modern material such as having asbestos sheet for ceiling. In this hall is placed the portraits
of Li Kup and other important individuals as a symbol of respect. The wedding ceremony is
often held here RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY
The temple continues to serve the spiritual needs of the Chinese community in Malacca. It is a
centre for the propagation of San Chiao or the Three Doctrinal Systems of Taoism,
Confucianism, and Buddhism. The religious order of the temple carries out numerous traditional
Chinese rites. It ministers to the spiritual needs of devotees, including divination and prayers for
the souls of the deceased.
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The is the gateway entrance of Cheng Hoon Teng temple. There are feature roof slope attempt
to attain a steeper incline than than the generally lower and flatter which follow the design in
Fujian form. There are two circular window on the side of gateway which carved with dragon to
protect the temple .
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This is the entrance before the prayer hall. The temple structure and entire complexes are both
build in symmetry form. The roofs design are sloping with upturned corners which started from
the beginning of song dynasty. The primary support in a Chinese temple structure are not walls,
but a series of columns, beams and bracket (called dougong) which place on the top of the
columns. These are made from wood also can be decorating purpose.
JOURNAL ( INDIVIDUALLY ) Travel Journal (NG KWANG ZHOU) It was the sunny day in the early of the morning, I woke as early as 8am and prepare all my staff
in order to get ready depart to my site visit of MPU which is Cheng Hoon Teng temple located in
Malacca. We departed as a group which consist a total of 8 people. We spilt ourselves into 2
cars and my car driver was my group leader. We spend about one and half hour to reach our
destination. In my car consisted of Fareez, Nazmi, Jervain and me. Fareez and Nazmi was my
close friend since we came from same foundation but Jervain was a new student so she was
quiet all the way we travel .Hence I trying to chat with her about our project and I found out that
she was an introverted person but once u start talk to her she will like talk to you in a very
friendly way.
After a while we reach our destination .We parked our car at the carpark which is a stone throw
away distance from our site .The parking fee cost RM5 for whole day which we think the price is
quite reasonable. Since we haven having our breakfast in the early in the morning hence we
having our branch over there .We went to the JONKER 88 which is one of the famous food
store in Jonker street.I ordered a bowl of Baba laksa and a bowl of cendol mixed with Malacca
sugar.The taste was prefer and I had never tasted such delicious and amazing food before in
my life.The taste was like the food came from heaven and the taste I can still remember in my
mind until now.After we enjoy the delicious meal,we went to our site and do the site visit.
When we reached the front of the temple,the amazing architecture design of the Chen Hoon
Teng temple took my breath away.I was stun at the amazing details of the sculpture and my
mouth was open as big as fly can came in.After that I saw many of the hawker selling snacks in
front of the temple with cheap and reasonable price.Once I walk into the temple the smell of
joystick flew across my nose and my mind was in a peace.I saw many prayer praying sincerely
with seeming hope to get the blessing from the goodness.
I started to take some photo which related to architecture and start to sketch in my sketchbook.I
try to draw and capture down all the wonderful movement in the shortest time.After that we walk
in a group to see the stunning architecture and the history behind the temple.Since some of my
groupmate are Malay hence I try to explain all the information that I know to them.After that we
find a prayer from the temple and help us to take group photo as a memorable
memory.Although we not familiar with each other but we willing try to communicate with each
other no matter what races.
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After site visit we went to drink coconut milkshake which is also one of the famous local drink in
Jonker street.The combination of the coconut and vanilla ice cream was perfect and is was
tasty.After that, some of them wanted to play and travel around Malacca but I choose to went
back to campus earlier since I still have many works to do.We enjoyed,we have fun and it was a
best memory for me.I hope I can have a wonderful trip like this in my future life.
Travel Journal (NG JI YANN) We gather at campus around 8:15am ,all of our members are very punctual. We set out to Malacca at 8:30am. After 1 hour of driving , we reach Jonker Street, the heritage of history .Before start, our site visit, we having our breakfast at ‘Jonker 88’ restaurant . ‘Jonker 88 ‘ restaurant are very famous among the restaurant in Jonker Street. Baba Laksa ,Asam Laksa and Baba Cendol are the most tasty and popular food. When we step in the temple , we can see the interior design of the temple was so amazing , one of the crew of the temple telling us , column of the temples didn’t use any nails or glue to stick it up, it just set it up with using LEGO principles.We take around 45 minutes to investigate and taking photo in the temple.Chinese members also explain to the nonchinese members about the culture and design of the temple , to let them more understanding about this historical places.Before leaving temple, we taking a group photo in front of the temple. After site visit , we had decided to have a cold drinks ,because the weather of that day was very hot. The desserts shop called “ BIKINI TOPPINGS” , they selling coconut shakes ,coconut jelly and others.We take a short breaks in this shop , and selected which topics we wanted to do in the report. During the lunch time , we having chicken rice ball , the most famous Malacca food. Inside the restaurant had a lot of customer were waiting for serve and some of them were having their yummy lunch. The price of the chicken rice ball was cheap , 1 rice ball only RM0.60. Around 2pm , we leaving Malacca ,and back to campus. This will be an unforgettable trip for me ,because this was my first trip with my Uni friends. Along the trip , we get a lot of funs . Beside that, I also learn more about the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple.
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Travel Journal (NG YEEN MUN)
It was a lovely sunny saturday on 16th of April 2016, group mates and I had to woke up early as usual for a site visit all the way to Malacca. Before we started our journey, every one of us had gathered together at the roundabout of Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus at 8 a.m and we had waited for our both kindness group mates who are able to fetched us to Malacca. It was an early and an hour journey to Malacca, so it turned up everyone were sleeping inside the car except the drivers. While we arrived Malacca, the first stop we went was a coffee shop which supply foods and drinks for our breakfast. After that, we went to our destination which is the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple. We visited the whole temple, we even surveyed the structures,the materials to built the whole building as well. It is an amazing day trip to Malacca with this bunch of friends, after that we went to a corner shop which name ‘ Bikini Shake ’ It sounds super Hawaii feel, the drinks which shake it with ice cream flavor that we had chosen , does makes me goes crazy for it on that sunny day. Last but not least , after the ‘ Bikini Shake ’ stop, some of our group mates were feeling tired so they wanted to head back to campus. So 4 of the group mates had left 5 of us to roamed around in Malacca. We went to one of the famous chicken rice shop for lunch and also huskitories for tea time and have some good time with the adorable dogs before we headed back to campus. It was a fun and experienced day, look forward for more assignment like that to explored more and gained more knowledges.
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Travel Journal (NG SHENG ZHE) After everyone had arrived at the gathering point at university, we started our journey to
Malacca. I took a nap in the car as I had to wake up very early in the morning to be ready for the
trip. We arrived at our destination after nearly an hour driving.
We were separated into 2 cars and my group was the first group to reach, therefore we
decided to have lunch while waiting for the rest to arrive. I ordered a bowl of noodle with fish ball
as it was the main food in the restaurant. It was not as tasty as expected but it was fine for me.
After a while, the second group arrived and they had their lunch together with us.
After having our lunch, we decided to go to our site which was the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
to take our photo and do our research. We took a lot of photos there so that we can understand
the site better. We also respected the temple by not making much noise. We discussed about
our site together with the help of an old man that had been around that temple for a long time.
We thanked him for his explanation as that could help us a lot in our assignment.
To further satisfy our craving, we decided to go to a dessert shop to have some cold drinks as
the weather was very hot. Most of us ordered the same drink which was the coconut shake with
vanilla ice cream. This was the best drink I had in Malacca as I was extremely thirsty at that
moment. We had a chat while enjoying the free wifi provided in the shop.
After our chilling moment, some group members decided to leave earlier as they were busy
and tired at the same time. There were only 5 of us staying as we wanted to further exploring
Malacca. We went to the Jonker Street to buy some souvenir and visited some shops. We were
attracted by a chicken rice shop and we decided to have another meal there because we are
not full enough. Our last destination was a famous cafe in Malacca. We had some great tea time
there as it was a nice place full of people and laughter. We ended our trip and we went home.
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Travel Journal ( MUHAMMAD MIRZA QAYYUM )
Saturday came and the day has arrived for our group to travel to Malacca so we can
carry out our research on the site of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple. We agreed to meet up with
each other in campus around 8am. I arrived around 7.45 and thankfully, everyone in our group
was punctual to arrive on time and not half an hour later from the supposed meeting time.
After everyone was gathered, we split up into two groups, since there are two cars. I
went with Ng Chuan Kai, one of the drivers to Malacca. Immediately afterwards, we left for
Malacca around 8.10am. The journey to Malacca was nothing special. Everyone in the car slept
peacefully, except the driver of course. The day before had been taxing on us, with assignments
due for submission.
We arrived in Malacca about an hour and a half later. Since we have not eaten our
breakfast, we decided to have our breakfast before proceeding to the site. We went to Jonker
Street, a very famous part of Malacca that is frequently packed with people, especially at night.
Our stop for breakfast was in a restaurant, though I could not remember the name. I just went
for the usual and got myself nasi lemak and rendang chicken. It was pretty nice. While eating,
the other half of our group arrived and joined us as well. We used this time to get to know each
other better, since some of us only met for the first time.
After our breakfast, we proceeded by taking a walk to Cheng Hoon Teng Temple as it
was fairly near to the restaurant we ate in. Around 10 minutes later, we reached our destination
and took a look around the temple while also taking photos for visual note taking. To get to
know more about this site, I asked some of the locals of its origins and history. Since I am not
very familiar of the Chinese culture, I asked my groupmates who are familiar to tell me more
about the individual structures of the temple. Apparently, I could not simply take photos of some
parts of the temple. It was nice to get to explore more on cultures other than my own. We ended
our visit of the temple by taking a group photo together to commemorate our visit here and also
as proof of us actually going to the historical site.
After that, we stop by a coconut place that sells a variety of coconut drink and shakes.
Most of our group members went for the simple vanilla coconut shake while some others went
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for more unique flavours. It tasted great if I can recall. After we had our dessert, a few of us
wanted to go back while some of us wanted to stay and explore Malacca more. I was one of the
people who wanted to go back because I have been to Malacca very frequently with my family
in the past and felt like I had explored enough around the city. So I followed Fareez, who is also
one of the drivers, back in his car along with two other groupmates. We waved farewell to the
rest of the members and made our way home and that is basically how half of us ended our
journey. Though I have been to Malacca many times with my family, it is refreshing because of
the fact that this time I get to visit Malacca with my university friends.
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Travel Journal (Muhammad Fareez Bin Shahar Sham)
Our trip group was set on saturday on the 16th april 2016 , our group have chosen
malacca as a location to make a research about types of civilization. And we all decided to carry
out our research on the site of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple.Before we start our journey me and
my group have planned everything so that we did not waste time.In the morning we all planned
to meet up infront of starbucks at Taylor's University .Me and Ck are seperated since we are the
drivers for the trip,in my car consist of Nazmi,Jervain,Ng kwan Zhou and myself while ck’s car
consist of the others,we all started to depart from taylors around 815am then after 2 hours drive
we finally reach the jonker street.I parked my car nearby the Temple which we are going and i
payed for the parking which is quite reasonable which is 5 ringgit.After that we all went to a
restaurant around the jonker street to have our breakfast.I had a good breakfast which is quite
famous in the area which is called the asam laksa and it taste very delicious.
After a good breakfast,we all group up and walk towards the Temple and while walking
to the temple we also learn many things around us such as the old buildings.After a few minutes
walk to the temple we finally reach and we are soaking wet because of the hot weather.During
the visit in the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple,we start our research since our topic is about chinese
civilization that is why we choose the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple.We learn so many thing about
the Temple.The interesting story about the temple is because it is a very old temple and it looks
beautiful even though it is a hundred year old Temple.I can see many people came to the
temple to pray and some visitors came as a visitor like me and my group mates.At first i dont
understand how actually the people pray in the Temple but then i ask my friend Ng kwan Zhou
and he was kind enough to explain to me how they pray in the Temple.
We all even went inside the Temple Hall to see the amazing structure of the building,
we even ask the people who watch after the Temple about the history of the temple.After taking
note of our research we all gather in front of the hall to take a group picture of the Temple.It
such an amazing to know such a good story of an old Temple.The people in the area are very
nice to us and treated us like a normal tourist.After finishing our work we all decided to walk
around the streets and we went to have a drink at a shop called “Bikini Shake” which sell many
types of coconut shake.The price is not too expensive,and taste quite good.After a good rest i
decided to go home but some of them wanted to stay and shop for some goodies. Some of my
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group mates havent reach malacca yet so they want to explore more around the area.But some
of us have been there for quite few times.I told the others to be safe since some of us are going
to separate.
After that me and few of my group mates walk to my car are decided to go back home,
we all are exhausted and asked my friend nazmi to watch over me so i won't fell asleep during
driving.I should take responsible of the others since i am driving.It took 2 hours to drive back
home and i dropped my other group mates at taylors University since they all have other plans
to do while i drive back home.We finally reach Taylors safely and my group mates thanked me
for driving.And i thanked them for being such a nice group mates.Finally my overall conclusion
for the whole journey is that it is a good thing to learn new things which i never get the chance to
know form the temple and the topic we choose to complete our group work. And it is a good
experience for me to travel with my group mates and get to know each other much more.Thanks
to my group mates for being such a responsible friends during our trip. Below are some pictures
from the trip
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Travel Journal (Muhammad Nazmi bin Kamarulzaman) On Saturday, we all gather at Taylor’s University campus which is our designated meeting point
at around 8:15am. Everyone arrived on time and there was no problem and therefore we started
our journey going to Malacca. During the journey, I went with Fareez Sham, Ng Kwang Zhow
and Jervain. I sat infront and spend most of my time reading a book for my Architecture project.
We took the Seremban Highway and after 1 hour and 30 minutes of driving we reached Jonker
Street, where the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is located. Since we are separated into 2 cars all of
us met again at another place which is the Jonker 88 restaurant which is impressively packed.
The food that is serve exceed my expectation as well as the Asam Laksa is so delicious and
well priced at RM7.50.
After the breakfast,we all walk towards the Temple. It wasn’t that far and while walking we saw a
lot of old and historical building such as the Masjid Kampung Kling, an Islamic praying site and
Sri Poyatha Moorthi temple which is reserved for Hindus. The weather was blazing fire, literally.
At almost 40 degree celcius and high humidity, it make us all wanted to arrive there as fast as
possible and were drenched in sweat. Soon afterwards we finally reach the Cheng Hoon Teng
Temple which is said by the person in charge to be 400 years old. I was impressed!
Furthermore, this visit to the temple allow us to get more insight on Chinese civilization as well
as the local Chinese tradition. At the place when we’re arrived there were quite considerable
number of people praying and a few were visitors. There are even foreign tourist who visit the
temple. Of course, the interior of the temple is well managed. It is more impressive to know that
the whole building did not use nail as with any traditional building of the olden days. Finally after
about several minutes into the temple, we went and take group photos before leaving. We did
not spend a lot of time there as we would not want to disturb the people there (and the weather
is killing us).
After the quick site visit, we decided to have a unique refreshing drinks due to the sunshine. We
went to a shop that specialize in coconut desserts and drinks. The shop is known as Bikini
Toppings and some of their specialties is selling coconut shakes and coconut jelly for a slightly
expensive price. However this is also the point where the group split into two yet again, for
people who wanted to stay a bit longer and those who wanted to return to Taylor’s as soon as
possible. I follow the latter as I had Architectural project meeting to attend to. At around 1pm, we
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left Malacca and arrive on campus around 3pm. To be honest this trip is like a short break from
the horrendous schedule and allowed me to enjoy some of my time. I also met new friends and
colleague. It is quite a nice experience although I wouldn’t say it is exceptionally amazing one.
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Travel Journal (Ng Chuan Kai)
Last Saturday,me and my group mate went to site visit which is Cheng Hoon Teng temple
in Malacca. We gather at Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus at 8 o’clock in the morning.I
woke up early to check my car before i go to campus to fetch them with Fareez to Malacca for
safety.After that, i went to campus and waited for them.Then, we start our journey around 8.30
in the morning.It was quite a long trip and is still early so my group mate were sleeping after a
while in the car.As i had experience travel for long trip so i can stay awake and focus on
driving.Around 10 o’clock, we reached our destination.Before we went to our site,we went to
grab our breakfast.
After that, we walked to the temple.We went in the temple and walked around to study the
temple and we took some pictures too.Before we go,We took a group photo too.
It is quite a hot day that time so we decided to go for a drink.We went to a shop called “Bikini
Shake” which sell coconut shake.
After that , we also went to eat our lunch at a chicken rice shop and a husky theme cafe
called huskitories for tea time.After we visited these places, we felt tired and we went back to
campus.It was a good experience for me to travel with friends which i only travel with friend for
once or twice.I also learned some historical places while doing our research.
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Travel Journal ( Ng Jer Vain )
I woke up at six in the morning, excited for the trip I was going to have with my new friends. I am
not from foundation, so I did not know any of my groupmates. We have had a whatsapp group
so we used it to stay in touch. At 8am, we gathered at Starbucks and took off to Malacca after
everyone has arrived. My groupmates were very friendly to me. As I am a shy person around
people i don’t know, I remained quiet until Kwang Zhou started conversation with me in the car.
We introduced ourselves and he gave me some advises to survive the following days in
architecture based on his past experience in foundation years.
We arrived our destination one and a half hour later, parked our car at a parking space and it
costs us RM5 for all day long, which is a reasonable price for me as Malacca is a tourist
destination with heavy carflow, it is hard to find parking there. We walked our way to Jonker 88
and had our breakfast. Some of our groupmates were waiting for us already as they arrived
earlier, I had Baba Laksa, it was delicious.
Then we proceeded to Cheng Hoon Teng temple. I have been in love with temples since I was
little, the details in the architecture structure fascinate me, the drawings and carvings on the wall
and the pillars draw my breath away, I love observing all the details and carve the patterns in
my mind, wondering what does all of those patterns mean at the same time. Chen Hoon Teng is
one of the most famous temple in Malacca, the building has a long history behind. Our Chinese
groupmates are very helpful as they explained the stories and share the things they know with
our Malay groupmates. We stayed at the temple for about 45 minutes before we left.
The weather was hot, and so we decided to had some coconut shakes. We walked around the
streets after that and shop around. We had some of the famous food in Malacca, for instance
chicken rice ball. We also went to Huskitories, a cafe where dogs will be your company when
you are having tea break. I had conquered my fear of dogs there, I took selfies with the huskies
there and had a piece of delicious crepe cake there.
It was a very fun day as I have made a group of new friends, I am looking forward to more
assignments like that.
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CONCLUSION
Here come to the final conclusion, in this trip we had not only learned about the chinese
civilization, we also learned about how to interaction between each others, shared ideas,
compromised and cooperated with each other during the whole assignment. We had chosen
one historical site from Malacca , which is the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple .
As chinese civilization , we have to be very clear about the rule and regulation in the temple.
We respect God and people who are working in the temple. In this temple, ‘ Cheng Hoon Teng ’
it is the famous temple among the whole Malacca because every buddhist who worship in this
temple, they do believe that their life and goals will be much more smoother than the others who
didn’t worship to God. It has the inspiring faith and perseverance.
However, Cheng Hoon Teng is a premier historical monument that has survived the ravages of
time. It remains the finest of Chinese temples in Malaysia. It is also a fact underscored by an
UNESCO award for outstanding architectural restoration. The temple ranks among the most
significant in Southeast Asia, being central to the spiritual aspirations of the Chinese community
in historic Malacca.
Last but not least throughout this whole assignment, we learned about the historical of the
chinese civilization, the religious monuments, the culture and also the religion believes. This site
is dedicated to the vision of Cheng Hoon Teng ’s founders and the determination of its devotees
to preserve their unique bastion of culture and heritage.
