The model restoration project of a Malacca shophouse jointly undertaken by Badan Warisan Malaysia and the U.S. Embassy was launched in Malacca on August 3, 2001 at 3.00 p.m. The official program began at 3:00 p.m. at Malaqa House at No. 70, Heeren Street, Malacca. This was followed by a ceremony and tour of the Dutch era shophouse at No. 8 Heeren Street. At the ceremony, Ambassador Pascoe signed three of the original roof tiles, which will be used in the restoration of the shophouse's roof. The use of original materials will be emphasized throughout the restoration, which began in August, 2001.
The August 3 launch was officiated by U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia B. Lynn Pascoe and the President of Badan Warisan Malaysia, YBhg Tan Sri Dato' Seri Ahmad Sarji bin Abdul Hamid. YBhg Datuk Hj Nasir bin Hj Manap, Deputy Chairman of the Malacca Museums Corporations (PERZIM), represented the Chief Minister of Malacca at the event. The Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, which owns the No. 8 Heeren Street shophouse, was represented by the Vice-Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Temple, Dr. Ee Tiang Lock. All four officials delivered remarks at the press conference and took part in the photo opportunity at the No. 8 Heeren Street shophouse.
Background: The U.S. Embassy has awarded Badan Warisan a RM 57,000 grant through the U.S. Department of State's Ambassador's Fund for Cultural Preservation to carry out the restoration of a Dutch era shophouse built in the 1700's and located in the historic section of Malacca. Once the restoration is complete, the shophouse will house an interpretation center that will highlight proper restoration techniques, educate the public about the importance of historic preservation, and serve as a starting point for heritage tours now under development.