Malaysia's Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) Awards 2023 winners announced


The Silverlakes Brands Outlet Village in Batu Gajah, Perak features a Modern Eclecticism design. Photo: Zone Architect

From a biophilic home with a secret garden and fish pond to a circular-shaped art gallery on a cliff overlooking Teluk Sepanggar in Sabah, the winning projects were inspiring and pushed the boundaries of good design.

Taking home the top honours under different categories were various buildings selected under the PAM Awards 2023 held yesterday.

This year also marks the 100th anniversary of Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM), also known as the Malaysian Institute of Architects, a big milestone for the organisation as well as the architecture industry.

“The centennial celebration of Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia this year marks a century of architectural excellence and contributions to the profession in Malaysia,” said Assoc Prof Sarly Adre Sarkum, PAM president and head jury for the Awards.

This year, a total of 120 valid submissions across 15 categories were received. The categories were Single Residential, Multiple Residential (Low Rise), Multiple Residential (High Rise), Public & Institutional, Alteration & Addition, Conservation, Overseas, Commercial Low Rise, Commercial High Rise, Showroom, Sports and Recreation, Collaboration, Planning & Master Planning, Hospitality and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG).

The living spaces of the Oculus House, which embraces natural light, ventilation and its surrounding greenery. Photo: Wooi Architect
The living spaces of the Oculus House, which embraces natural light, ventilation and its surrounding greenery. Photo: Wooi Architect

“What truly sets the Gold winners apart is their ability to blend functionality and aesthetics seamlessly. It’s not just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about creating spaces that inspire and uplift the human spirit. Each space has been carefully crafted to evoke emotion and create a sense of harmony with its surroundings,” said Sarly.

“The winners have also demonstrated a deep commitment to sustainability by embracing sustainability practices as well as incorporating sustainable materials and technologies, showing their dedication to creating a greener future,” he added.

The overall quality of submissions was also impressive, he said.

“Despite the challenging circumstances during the time the majority of these projects were conceptualised and constructed – specifically during Covid-19 and the movement control orders – the quality of submissions has risen considerably.

“It is truly remarkable to witness the resilience, creativity and unwavering dedication of the architects even in the face of adversity and challenge.”

Completed mid-2022, the Azman Hashim Community Sports Complex is located near the centre of Sibujaya. Photo: BYG Architecture & Kacapuri Architect
Completed mid-2022, the Azman Hashim Community Sports Complex is located near the centre of Sibujaya. Photo: BYG Architecture & Kacapuri Architect

He said the fact that such designs have emerged amidst a global pandemic is “a testament to the indomitable spirit of the architectural community”.

“The architects have not allowed the limitations imposed by the circumstances to hinder their pursuit of excellence.

“Instead, they have risen above the challenges, using them as opportunities for innovation and pushing the boundaries of their creativity. Their unwavering commitment to their craft and the exceptional quality of their submissions speak volumes about their talent and determination.

“Their designs will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the architectural landscape, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved even in the most challenging of times,” he said.

Here is the list of top winners in the respective categories.

Category: Single Residential

Gold: Oculus House

Architect: Wooi Architect

Category: Multiple Residential Low Rise

Silver: Mulia Residence

Architect: Arkitek FAA

Category: Multiple Residential High Rise

Gold: Lucentia Residences

Architect: GDP Architects

Category: Public & Institutional

Gold: Azman Hashim UMS Gallery

Architect: GDP Architects & KEAN Architect

Category: Alteration and Addition

Gold: Renovation of Park Royal KL Hotel Guestrooms and Public Areas

Architect: DP Architects & FDAT Architects

Category: Commercial Low Rise

Silver: Silverlakes Brands Outlet Village

Architect: Zone Architect

Category: Commercial High Rise

Gold: TNB Platinum

Architect: Neuformation Architects in collaboration with Woods Bagot

Category: Showroom

Commendation: Selindung Daun

Architect: Malek Hassan Architect

Category: Sports & Recreation

Silver: Azman Hashim Community Sports Centre

Architect: BYG Architecture in collaboration with Kacapuri Architect

Category: Hospitality

Silver: Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Architect: Arkitek Daniel Koh in collaboration with Kengo Kuma & Associates

Category: Sustainable Development Goal

Silver: Petronas Leadership Centre New Campus

Architect: Veritas Architects

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