Traditional architecture in Fujian and Melaka: A cultural legacy

Fujian Tulou, a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture, is built with durable rammed earth, designed for communal living and defense. Its circular or square structures house entire clans, reflecting the Hakka people's spirit of cooperation and harmony with nature.

In Melaka, the Baba Nyonya (Peranakan Chinese) community, descendants of early Chinese settlers from China's Fujian and Guangdong provinces, developed a distinctive architectural style blending Chinese, Malay, and European influences. These houses, with their vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics, embody multicultural coexistence.

Despite their differences, both architectural styles serve as cultural landmarks, preserving historical memory and adapting to their environments. Together, they showcase how architecture transcends borders, reflecting shared human experiences and the richness of cultural exchange.