We as 1
“We as 1” was the whole theme for Datum Kuala Lumpur 2023. It can be elaborated and witnessed around the essence of inclusivity in the practice of architecture and the shared experiences that shape this dynamic field throughout the two-days presentations by renowned international and local architects who offered valuable insights into architectural practices that span the globe. The dialogue was centered on the pressing question: How do we build inclusive spaces for our shared city and embrace both commonalities and differences in the process?
Notable speakers from Day 1 included Ar. Johan Abdul Samad & Ar. Yvonne Leong from BEP Akitek, Apichart Srirojanapinyo & Chanasit Cholasuek from Stu/D/O, Ar. Chiquita M. Pitono from Arkitekton Limatama, Ar. Sidharta Talwar from Studio Lotus, and Harlen Miller & Atira Ariffin from UNStudio. Their presentations brought forth the importance of tropical architecture, passive design strategies, the interplay of people and environment, climate change considerations, and the role of technology in contemporary design.
Whereas Ian Simpson from SimpsonHaugh Architects, Ray Winkler of Stufish, Ar Fawad Suhail Abbasi from Suhail & Fawad Architects, Ar. David Teh, and Ar Seah Chee Huang from DP Architects shared their architectural philosophies and notable projects on Day 2. They brought into focus the integrative role of architecture, the captivating realm of entertainment architecture, and the importance of sustainability and contextual designs.
As Datum Kuala Lumpur 2023 drew to a close, a series of notable sessions marked a the next chapter for the winner of The PAM Gold Medal Winner 2023 was awarded to Ar. Lillian Tay and charts the way moving forward to 2024 with the presentation of Malaysia as the UIA International Forum in 2024 host, organised by the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) by Datuk Ar. Ezumi Harzani Ismail and concluded with Ar. Ngiom’s unveiling the KLAF 2024 theme, leaves a powerful message for architects worldwide: Adapt, evolve, and collectively together we build a better world through architecture.
