Participants visiting Sama Square in Setapak.
THE fourth instalment of “Singgah KL”, aimed at promoting the works of Malaysian architects, featured 15 buildings comprising commercial premises and government headquarters in the capital city.
Organised by Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM), the two-day event attracted 800 participants from all walks of life.
During the event, participants visited selected buildings in Kuala Lumpur and learned about their history and construction.
The guided tour lasting between 60 and 90 minutes were undertaken by building managers and architects.
Event convenor Almaz Salma Abdul Rahim said the idea for the programme came about in 2019 after she learned about such events in cities such as London and Sydney.
“These events were aimed at bridging the gap and educating the public about the works of architects.
Listening to a briefing about the building at GDP Campus in Bukit Damansara. — Courtesy photos
“Often times, architects tend to mingle in their own circles and these events allow them to connect with the general public,” she said.
Almaz Salma, an architect by profession, said Singgah KL started with seven buildings but the number increased every year due to good reception.
She said PAM reached out to building owners as well as association members to ask if they wished to have their premises showcased.
“We also received requests from those who had been showcased in past years, who were happy with the reception to their premises,” she said.
Among buildings featured this year were Hyatt Centric Hotel, Sama Square, Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) headquarters, Moxy Hotel and GDP Campus.
To ensure a high number of participants, Almaz Salma said PAM kept the registration open until the day of the event.
She noted that apart from architects and architecture students, Singgah KL also attracted people from other professions.
“We have had lawyers, doctors and even retirees who simply wanted to check out buildings in Kuala Lumpur,” she said.
