ASSESSING CRITICAL RISK FACTORS FOR HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECTS IN COMPLIANCE WITH NATIONAL HERITAGE ACT 2005 (ACT 645)

Abstract

The Malaysian government has consistently highlighted the significant value of historical buildings as one of the goals of sustainability initiatives. The heritage sites, locals, culture even assets are well preserved, highly valued, and renowned globally. However, significant risks and uncertainties have created challenges to heritage conservation projects. This paper aims to establish a Critical Risk Factors for Heritage Conservation Project in Malaysia and its relationship with National Heritage Act 2005. A quantitative research approach is used to achieve the two objectives towards attaining this aim. First, a systematic literature review is used to determine the critical risk factors for a heritage conservation project in a way to identify a significant risk involved in a heritage conservation project and finally to establish critical risk factors for a heritage conservation project in compliance with National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645). For this paper, the only second objective was discussed. Based on the analysis, it can be concluded that fifteen (15) most critical risk factors could enhance heritage conservation projects at every stage in building a conservation framework. Usually, most of the critical risk factors can be mitigated prudently with the compliance of Section 40 (1) – (6), National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645), focusing on the planning permission for Heritage sites.