PRESERVING THE IDENTITY OF JALAN PETALING: REVIVING THE

ARCHITECTURE, TRADITIONAL BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY

Abstract
Petaling Street (Jalan Petaling in Malay), is a Chinatown located in Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia. The whole vicinity is also known as Chinatown KL. the wealthier
population built their shophouses here as it was higher than the rest of the town
and thus less prone to floods. This research was conducted to identify the issues
in Petaling Street caused by the non-sustainable tourism in the area.

This information in this study was collected using in depth research that is
supported by reports, publications, and journals on the street, and site visits. This
study concluded that the street is facing 3 main issues which are the absence of
traditional businesses, the lack of cultural and community expression, and the
erosion of the traditional facades of the architecture. All in all, this research may
raise awareness on the significance of sustainable tourism and the drastic effects
of negligence to the area.
introduction
Non-sustainable tourism harms Jalan Petaling's businesses through overcrowding,
environmental damage, cultural exploitation, inequality, and local displacement.

It also affects the area's architecture, leading to commercialization, modernization,

and construction that disregards traditional styles.

This jeopardizes historic structures, disrupts aesthetic harmony, and neglects

buildings for short-term gains.

Preserving Jalan Petaling's architectural heritage requires promoting sustainable

tourism practices that balance development while protecting cultural and historical
structures.
METHODOLOGY
The research is conducted by reviewing literature from research papers and
studies found on the internet.

The findings from these sources are utilized to support the research questions
and propose solutions to address the factors contributing to the loss of identity.
RESEARCH QUESTIONs
I. How can the Diminishing II. How will new foreign III. How does job
Authenticity of Petaling businesses appearing on opportunity within the Jalan
Street's Architecture be Jalan Petaling increase the Petaling may effect the
recovered to restore its rate of traditional businesses outflow of residents causing
cultural and architectural deteriorating? the lost of community
heritage? identity?
I. How can the Diminishing Authenticity of Petaling Street's
Architecture be recovered to restore its cultural and architectural
heritage

Solution 1
Carrying out awareness campaigns for locals and tourists in order to
draw more attention to the architectural facades in turn preserving
it on media

The study emphasizes the need to reassess how people perceive the shophouses' façade elements in
Jalan Petaling during urbanization. This is crucial to maintain a positive image of Kuala Lumpur. To
raise awareness and appreciation for traditional architectural facades, it is recommended to increase
photographic documentation and preserve the site on social platforms.
I. How can the Diminishing Authenticity of Petaling Street's
Architecture be recovered to restore its cultural and architectural
heritage

Solution 2
Get local community to appreciate the sites historical significance
and be aware about the importance of restoring cultural heritage.

To preserve the historical significance and connection to the past, collaborations with educational
institutions for site visits and tours can be done to learn about traditional architectural facades.
I. How can the Diminishing Authenticity of Petaling Street's
Architecture be recovered to restore its cultural and architectural
heritage

Solution
Create official websites and social platforms to indulge with the
architecture and have digitally covered footage to conserve the
cultural features online

Permanently documenting the street's buildings on social platforms can raise awareness about
conserving their architectural features and boost tourism.
II. How will new foreign businesses appearing on Jalan Petaling
increase the rate of traditional businesses deteriorating

Solution 1
Create collaborations between businesses and launch festivals and
events at jalan petaling to attract more customers.

Based on the study solution to encourage businesses on Jalan Petaling to collaborate and create
partnerships. By working together, they can pool resources, share marketing costs, and offer
combined promotions to attract a wider customer base.
II. How will new foreign businesses appearing on Jalan Petaling
increase the rate of traditional businesses deteriorating

Solution 2
Embracing technology and innovation is crucial for businesses on
Jalan Petaling to expand their reach and attract a broader customer
base.

To expand reach and attract more customers, adopt modern technologies like online platforms,
social media, and e-commerce. Utilize digital marketing strategies to boost visibility and engage with
customers effectively. This is based on a study solution to lean towards modern technological
development.
II. How will new foreign businesses appearing on Jalan Petaling
increase the rate of traditional businesses deteriorating

Solution 3
Engage with local government bodies or business associations to
voice concerns and seek support for traditional businesses.

Based on the study solution to voice concerns and seeking support, businesses can secure
incentives, marketing campaigns, and infrastructure improvements that benefit them. This may
include tax incentives, reduced regulations, and joint marketing initiatives.
III. HOW DOES JOB OPPORTUNITY WITHIN THE JALAN PETALING MAY EFFECT THE
OUTFLOW OF RESIDENTS CAUSING THE LOST OF COMMUNITY IDENTITY

Solution 1
Propose sub projects at Jalan Petaling to attract the younger
generation that moved out for work to come back here and work.

Based on a research paper proposing solutions to create employment opportunity in urban area by
having sub projects implement through community or local contracting which applied here allocating
for the original residents in Jalan Petaling.
III. How will new foreign businesses appearing on Jalan Petaling
increase the rate of traditional businesses deteriorating

Solution 2
The government may convert some abandoned buildings nearby
into offices.

Converting abandoned buildings in Jalan Petaling into offices can solve the office shortage while
revitalizing the area. This promotes urban renewal, stimulates economic growth, attracts businesses,
and creates jobs.
III. How will new foreign businesses appearing on Jalan Petaling
increase the rate of traditional businesses deteriorating

Solution 3
Offer slightly higher pay for the younger generation than people
from foreign states.

Providing higher pay to local youth compared to foreigners can motivate them to remain in Jalan
Petaling, preserving local culture and community dynamics.
CONCLUSION
This study emphasizes the significance of sustainable tourism practices and the
negative consequences of neglecting historical and cultural elements in popular
tourist destinations like Petaling Street.

By raising awareness among key stakeholders such as government officials,

community leaders, and tourism organizations, we aim to foster a sense of
accountability and motivate proactive measures to safeguard Petaling Street's
rich history.

This ensures its long-term viability, vitality, and cultural importance for both
present and future generations of tourists and residents.