Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) has achieved a remarkable milestone, marking 100 years of excellence in Malaysia’s architectural history. As the country’s leading professional organisation for architects, PAM has nurtured and produced world-class designers and leaders at both local and international levels, including within prestigious bodies such as Arcasia and the Union of Architects.
Throughout its century of operation, PAM has played a pivotal role in the development of Malaysia’s building industry and has contributed significantly to the establishment of the country’s most widely-used Building Contract. With its five chapters, PAM has ensured inclusive participation from all corners of Malaysia.
PAM has also been at the forefront of promoting sustainable building practices in the country. Its commitment to eco-friendly architecture is exemplified by the establishment of the Green Building Index, Malaysia’s first green standard tool.
Moreover, PAM’s financial stability and success are demonstrated by its award-winning headquarters, the PAM Centre, which was built entirely using the organisation’s own funds and assets. Today, PAM is widely recognized as a well-respected architecture organisation in Asia and beyond. Its remarkable achievements over the last century speak to its ongoing commitment to shaping Malaysia’s architectural landscape while striving for excellence and innovation in architecture.
The public awareness of sustainable construction and its benefits can be one of the main focuses for PAM in the near future. The construction can range from housing, commercial, industrial, infrastructure, and even to the usage of sustainable electrical fittings. With the help of the private sector in the manufacturing sector, we can give this awareness to the masses (and not just among building designers) and thus, create a demand that pushes the whole industry to a better future for the next generation.
The urgency of a cross-disciplinary approach in practising architecture cannot be overstated in the face of the urgent need to address climate change. Architecture has a significant impact on the environment, and the traditional approach of working in silos is no longer sufficient to tackle the complex challenges posed by climate change. Instead, architects must collaborate closely with engineers, environmental scientists, urban planners, landscape architects, and other experts. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the complex interrelationships between the built environment, natural systems, and society. By incorporating insights from multiple disciplines, architects can create designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable, resilient, and adaptable.
In light of this, we believe that PAM must take a proactive approach to incorporating sustainable and environmentally-conscious practices into its operations, and support its members in doing the same. This will not only benefit society and the planet as a whole but also ensure the continued success and relevance of the architecture profession in the face of urgent global challenges.
