BACKGROUND
Since 2011, Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (MAIWP) has been temporarily renting from the PERKIM building on Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur. Recognising the need for a dedicated headquarters to enhance its administrative and operational efficiency, MAIWP’s Board of Directors appointed Arkitek FAA Sdn Bhd to design a new headquarters on MAIWP-owned land in Lorong Haji Hussein, Kuala Lumpur.
DEVELOPMENT
The chosen site for the new MAIWP headquarters is a strategically located, undeveloped plot consisting of eight shophouse lots along Lorong Haji Hussein. Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and adjacent to the existing Zakat Collection Centre, this location is ideal as it draws MAIWP closer to the people they serve (asnaf) that come to the adjacent Daruzzakah building.
The envisioned design for the new headquarters aims to create a comprehensive development that seamlessly integrates the headquarters with the Daruzzakah Building, forming a unified complex. This integration will significantly enhance operations, fostering greater efficiency and collaboration. Before construction can commence, the eight shop lots of land must undergo an amalgamation process to form a single titled land. Air rights must also be obtained for the link car park structure that connects the two buildings.
MAIWP VISION
MAIWP envisions the new headquarters as a unifying space for most of its departments and staft in the Federal Territory, promoting long-term cost savings and enhanced operational efficiency. The building aims to become a landmark in Kuala Lumpur, symbolising a progressive and dynamic Islamic institution.
DESIGN PROCESS
The design process for the new headquarters was meticulous and thorough. While aesthetic appeal was important, the primary focus was on achieving functional objectives within the allocated budget. Arkitek FAA Sdn Bhd presented several initial design proposals, and the process continued until a composition meeting all technical, cost, and authority requirements was achieved.
DESIGN CONCEPT
The new MAIWP headquarters is designed to blend seamlessly with the existing Daruzzakah Building, combining modern and traditional elements. The design prioritises comfort and convenience for visitors and staft while reflecting the corporate image of an Islamic institution. The tower features six Islamic pointed arches symbolising the six pillars of faith, and five segmented structures representing the five pillars of Islam. This tiered design creates a dynamic and progressive image, symbolising MAIWP as a forward-looking Islamic institution.
EXTERNAL ENVELOPE
The 27-story tower’s external façade features cutting-edge materials that reflect modern, contemporary, and minimalist characteristics, emphasising simplicity, elegance, and strength. The use of glass and aluminium ensures ease of installation and compliance with industrial building system standards. Steel frame structures are used only at the tower’s pinnacle, achieving a robust and refined arch design. The unique, tiered arches serve both as aesthetic decorations and functional storage rooms, housing the building maintenance units. The curved glass enveloping the tower was carefully selected from a range of blue hues, resulting in an exclusive and sophisticated exterior. All these strategies, specifically the tapering peak create the illusion of the tower being taller than its 27 floors.
INTERNAL OPEN DESIGN
At the heart of the MAIWP Tower is its commitment to openness and accessibility to the public. The main lobby entrance features an expansive three-level space that prominently showcases a prayer hall on the lower ground floor, inviting public use and fostering a sense of community.
During Friday prayers, this space transforms into a full-fledged mosque, with all three floors leading to the main lobby accommodating worshippers, demonstrating a thoughtful and flexible design approach. Additionally, the tower includes a retail arcade and provides easy access for people with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity. The adjacent Daruzzakah Building houses the zakat collection service, further enhancing the tower’s public utility.
ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURAL ORNAMENTATION
From both exterior and interior perspectives, the MAIWP Tower consistently showcases modern Islamic architectural ornamentation. The building features intricate decorative elements that reflect Islamic motifs, creating a visually stunning and culturally resonant environment.
INTEGRATION OF TWO BUILDINGS
A seamless pedestrian plaza connects the MAIWP Tower with the Daruzzakah Building, forming a unified development. This integration is further enhanced through careful architectural translation, material selection, and colour schemes that complement each other, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious design.
CONSTRUCTION JOURNEY
The construction of the MAIWP Tower was a meticulously planned and executed project. A%er obtaining the necessary approvals from the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and other relevant authorities, The MAIWP Tower project exemplifies how modern architecture can seamlessly integrate with traditional elements to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This development not only enhances the Kuala Lumpur city skyline but also serves as a beacon of timeless architectural design.
The envisioned design for the new headquarters aims to create a comprehensive development that seamlessly integrates the headquarters with the Daruzzakah Building, forming a unified complex.
