This old wooden building with typical Malay architecture decorated with flower carvings is now abandoned and unkempt. This building previously functioned as a public facility for elementary school children's basic education. The Acehnese people call this type of building "Bale Beut". It stands on waqf land in the residential area of Cot Teungoh Village, Sigli town, Aceh.
I am part of a research team at the non-profit @Mapesa, conducting an initial survey and collecting field data for the historical building. This activity is part of a further study we will be conducting. The team visited the site on January 22, 2025.
The local community does not have a definite record of the building. However, based on the style of ornaments and inscriptions, we estimate that it dates from the late 18th or early 19th century. Inscriptions containing year numbers are expected to provide definite information about the date of construction or at least the renovation.
The non-profit @Mapesa plans to preserve and reuse the building by involving the community while also providing a place for public education on the importance of preserving cultural heritage sites. By mid-May 2025, the building planned to become an educational place for elementary school students around the town of Sigli, to introduce the art of wood carving and decorative motifs from the past.
Hopefully it will be achieved according to plan.
Taken with Sony Alpha 7 III camera + Sony FE 50mm F1.8 lens + E-Mount Metabones adapter.
Thank You
by Irfan M Nur (@vannour)
Amateur Historian
It would be a real shame to let such a historic building fall into disrepair. Sporting to be finished by mid-May 😉. Looking at the third picture, there's a lot of work involved. 💪 Good luck! 🌞
We will do our best for the rescue. This ornamental image accompanies thanks for your support 😉.
The ornamental picture you sent is really impressive! It would be great to see this artistic work shine in new splendor! 😀
Hopefully, thanks again @vanje
You are welcome @vannour. I think you are similar to us in that the decision-makers often have other priorities that would benefit such a project. Hope remains!
Sometimes, the priorities we focus on may differ from those of decision-makers. Here, cultural volunteers have decided to take the initiative and move forward, hoping local decision-makers will eventually follow suit by allocating the necessary resources. Stay motivated, and draw strength from the community’s shared commitment.
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