Structural and Functional-Symbolic Roles of Traditional Malay Tanggam Joinery in Sustainable Timber Construction:  A Case Study in Peninsular Malaysia

Nor Zamira binti Zamri; Mohd Shahrizal bin Dolah; Nurhanisah binti Mohd Hawari; Jazmin binti Mohamad Jaafar

doi:10.58915/aset.v5i1.3200

Authors

Nor Zamira binti Zamri Universiti Putra Malaysia
Mohd Shahrizal bin Dolah Universiti Putra Malaysia
Nurhanisah binti Mohd Hawari Universiti Putra Malaysia
Jazmin binti Mohamad Jaafar Universiti Putra Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58915/aset.v5i1.3200

Keywords:

Functional-symbolic integration, Regional typology, Sustainable construction, Timber construction, Traditional Malay houses, Tanggam joinery

Abstract

Traditional Malay wooden houses embody an integrated architectural response to climate conditions, material efficiency, and construction knowledge developed over generations. A key element of this architecture is the tanggam joinery system, a mechanical interlocking technique that connects structural components without nails or metal fasteners. This study examines typological patterns and functional-symbolic roles of traditional Malay tanggam joinery in traditional Malay houses across four regional house typologies of Peninsular Malaysia: Kedah, Perak, Melaka, and the East Coast. A qualitative multiple case study approach involving 11 representative houses was employed, with an integrated literature review, field observations, photographic documentation, geometric assessment, and cross-regional comparative analysis conducted over six months. The findings reveal three principal roles of tanggam: (i) structural load-bearing, (ii) structural non-load-bearing, and (iii) integrated structural-symbolic applications. The results demonstrate that tanggam functions not merely as a carpentry technique but as an embedded structural logic within traditional Malay timber construction. Its mechanical interlocking configuration facilitates adaptability, disassembly, maintenance, and material longevity. The findings highlight the relevance of traditional joinery knowledge as a conceptual and technical foundation for sustainable timber architecture, which contributes to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and heritage conservation initiatives.

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