Kicking off the first leg of the chapters’ tour, the PAM East Coast Chapter (PAMEC) Cultural Exploration brought together students, architects, artisans, and industry partners through a shared appreciation for heritage preservation, fostering both technical knowledge sharing and deep community connections. Held at Kampung Budaya Terengganu, a venue committed to preserving the traditional culture and architecture of Terengganu, the event featured a forward-looking lineup of discussions rooted in culture and heritage.
Strengthening the industry-university connection, participants from Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi Mara Pasir Mas, Kolej Komuniti Kuala Terengganu, and Politeknik Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah (POLISAS) joined a morning networking session. PAMEC Chairperson Ar. Mohd Hazwan Hamidi kicked off the proceedings with his opening speech, welcoming the participants to the inaugural event. He was joined by PAM Deputy President 2026-2027 Ar. Norzaini Mufti, KLAF Director Lim Gim Guang, and KLAF Chief Curator Ar. Rien Tan.
The key event of the day was the professional seminars by prominent architects and technical experts. Ts. Mohd Saifuddin from UAC Berhad shared the technical applications of the products, offering students insight into their design, characteristics, and uses.
Dato’ Ar. Raja Kamarul Bahrin shared his piece titled “Senibina Terengganu dari kaca mata Ar. Raja Kamarul Bahrin”, which was inspired. He was the architect for the state museum as well. His input on the vernacular architecture drew attention and emotions from the guests.
Kuala Lumpur-based architect Ar. Almaz Salma binti Abdul Rahim then presented on “The relevancy of Traditional Architecture in modern building and current market”. She shared her experience on the inspirations gathered and shared her works on the intricate use of “jendela in her designs. The guests were definitely inspired by her presentation.
The guests then made their way outdoors for a presentation by master craftsman Adiguru Mat Gani bin Mat, who demonstrated the process of making a batik block. All guests participated well and gained hands-on experience making batik for themselves. As guests enjoyed their lunch within the cultural setting, the events continued with a tour of the traditional Malay houses. Each of these houses has its own uniqueness that reflects the architecture and culture of the Terengganu community. Along the tour, it featured many cultural trades and activities that showcased the beautiful heritage. Feature presentations included master craftsman Encik Wan Nurkamar, who shared on “Seni Ukiran Kayu: Legasi Adiguru Wan Su and Wan Po”.
The day wrapped up filled with cultural pride, knowledge sharing, and craftsmanship. Overall, the PAMEC Cultural Exploration was a resounding success, creating a vibrant platform for participants to connect, celebrate architectural legacy, and honour the timeless skills of local master craftsmen within the community.
