Conservation and Intervention Strategies for Pulau Duyong focus on preserving historical, cultural, and architectural value while ensuring the buildings remain safe and functional. These strategies include:
Structural Reinforcement
Repair or replace damaged wooden structures using traditional joinery techniques.
Strengthen foundations and stilts to protect against flooding and river erosion.
Restore brick walls to maintain the fortress like appearance.
Material Preservation
Use traditional materials such as timber, lime, sand, and stone for repairs.
Preserve decorative carvings (sobek) and roof structures to maintain authenticity.
Minimal and Reversible Intervention
Only repair or replace elements that are deteriorated or unsafe.
Ensure that any work can be reversed in the future without damaging original features.
Preventive Conservation
Apply measures to protect the building from floods, humidity, pests, and decay.
Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to detect and prevent damage early.
Structural repair and reinforcement of wooden frames, stilts, and foundations using traditional joinery techniques.
Brick walls and columns are restored while maintaining their original design and patterns.
Traditional materials such as timber, bricks, lime, sand, stone, and egg white are used in repairs.
Decorative elements, including wooden carvings (sobek) and motifs, are carefully preserved or restored.
Surrounding riverbanks and estuary areas are managed to prevent erosion and flooding.
Vegetation around the site is maintained to enhance cultural aesthetics and protect the structures.
Planting of buffer trees and shrubs is done to reduce water damage and wind impact.
Courtyards, verandas, and open areas are cleaned and maintained, reflecting traditional layouts.
Spaces are used for community activities, cultural events, and visitor access without altering historical layouts.
The restoration and conservation of Pulau Duyong and Kota Lama Duyong are closely linked to how the community uses the site. Repairs and interventions make the buildings safe, functional, and accessible for locals and visitors. Turning parts of the fort into museums or cultural centers allows the community to learn, hold events, and enjoy cultural activities. Involving local artisans and residents helps preserve traditional skills and strengthens local identity. This way, conservation not only protects the heritage buildings but also keeps them useful and meaningful for the community.