The Four Attributes of Kampung as Living Heritage

Abstract

The image of kampung which was previously defined and regarded as part of rural or village, vernacular, bearing the stigma of the opposite of modernization, city life, vibrant and dynamic lifestyle, even connotes stupidity, boring appearance, or void of taste, has now gradually transformed into a worth visit and livable built environment and become part of heritage. This study was conducted to gather qualitative data focusing on the social, educational, even functional values of kampung embedded in the life of the residents originated from cultural-historical background which will determine and elevate the existence of kampung. Direct visits were conducted to Kampung Karangmalang, Made, Maspati, Lawang Seketeng and Peneleh to interview and record residents’ activities, interaction, and habitual behavior. These data were analyzed and supported by the literature studies of the cultural-historical values of kampung. There are four attributes found in these kampungs shifting from the cultural-historical into contemporary socioeconomic values: (1) the numbering of the address system that construe ownership and control, (2) the location of gates, guard posts and other cultural- historical artifacts as means of communication, (3) street as connecting cord as well as the venue, and (4) mixed use of building and land for retail or home- business