Principally, the street façade determines the city character which in each city represents the different treatment on the materials, openings, construction method and the structure. This represents the era at that point of time and as such adds strength to a city’s character. It also serves as a landmark for the city, whereby the community respects the façade and protects it from being destroyed by development.

It becomes an asset and of high aesthetic values due to the strength of the façade in facing the various phases of technological advancements. Because of this, façade becomes an important aspect of a city that needs to be respected and protected for the coming generations. For example, the street façade in Malacca (a historical city in Malaysia) has a very high aesthetic value because it was built during the Malacca port’s golden era and during the British occupation. The street façade was heavily influenced by that era; China ornaments representing porcelain wares brought from China and at the same time retaining colonial designs of the then British empire. This is the same in Penang where its street façade has its own identity for example the distance between windows and the rhythm of height.

Both cities have different characters and visitors would be able to notice as well as feel the difference. Similarly in the Scotland, Aberdeen city for example is known by its granite element and currently still strives to maintain that character. Another example is Elgin with its sandstone element.

However, the current or the more recent street façades in Malaysia do not really represent the local values. They are lacking their own distinctive character and do not really represent the generation, hence failing to produce a successful urban.

Thus, I think there is a need for the local municipal councils in Malaysia to tighten the regulations surrounding new developments to ensure local values and character are retained in any developments. This move will also show how important today’s architecture is especially for the coming generation so that they will not only be proud of such things but also acknowledge the fact that we showed that we respected the local aesthetic values.