Adaptive evolution of Javanese Islamic architecture and its influence on mosque architecture in Southeast Asia: a systematic review

Mohd Nor Shahizan, Izzan Afiqah and Salih, Sarah Abdulkareem and Ismail, Sumarni and Sabil, Azmal and Asif, Nayeem (2026) Adaptive evolution of Javanese Islamic architecture and its influence on mosque architecture in Southeast Asia: a systematic review. In: Proceedings of the 8th World Conference on Islamic Thought & Civilization (WCIT2026), 21-31 July 2026, Ipoh, Perak.

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Abstract

Javanese Islamic architecture is a key example of the architectural traditions of Southeast Asia, reflecting the influence of Islam alongside indigenous cultural practices. Despite its significance, there remains a lack of research on the evolution of its architectural forms and symbolic meanings, limiting a deeper understanding of its contribution to the development of national cultural identity across the region. Therefore, this study aims to examine the transformation and evolution of Javanese Islamic architectural forms and symbolism, as well as their influence on socio-cultural mosque architecture in Southeast Asia. A systematic literature review was conducted using articles published between 1990 and 2026 in English from the Scopus and ScienceDirect databases. A total of 15 full-text articles met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed using content analysis. The findings indicate that although the architectural forms of Javanese Islamic architecture have evolved over time due to various historical, cultural, and environmental factors, their core symbolic meanings—particularly those related to spirituality, cultural identity, and social hierarchy—have largely been preserved. Key architectural features, including tiered roof structures, spatial hierarchy, and climate-responsive design, have significantly influenced the development of mosque architecture throughout Southeast Asia. This study contributes to the understanding of the regional influence of Javanese Islamic architecture by demonstrating how its architectural symbolism reinforces national identity while promoting social cohesion within the culturally diverse societies of Southeast Asia.

Item Type:	Proceeding Paper (Other)
Additional Information:	Conference held 21--23 July 2026
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Architectural Transformation; Javanese Islamic Architecture; MosqueArchitecture;National Cultural Identity; Southeast Asia.
Subjects:	N Fine Arts > NA Architecture
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design > Department of Architecture
Depositing User:	Dr Nayeem Asif
Date Deposited:	11 Aug 2026 09:50
Last Update:	11 Aug 2026 09:50
Queue Number:	2026-08-Q4644
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130679

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