Bronze and Gold at PAM Annual Architecture Student Works Exhibition 2024

UTAR has added another feather to its cap as its students secured multiple awards at the prestigious 18th PAM Annual Architecture Student Works Exhibition (PAASWE) 2024, organised by Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM). Held from 2 to 6 October 2024 at 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Selangor, the event celebrated architectural creativity and innovation under the theme ‘Futra: Future X Tradition’.

The highlight of the exhibition was the university’s achievements in two key categories: the Exhibition Booth Design Competition, where UTAR’s Year 1 Architecture students claimed the Bronze Award, and the Sketching Competition (Student), where Year 3 student Chow Liang Cheng secured the Gold Award.

The winning booth design, titled The Batu Tangga Connection, exemplified the seamless fusion of futuristic and traditional elements. Inspired by Melaka’s tangga batu (stone stairs) adorned with floral motifs, the design symbolised evolving traditions. The futuristic element featured a tree-like aluminium structure with a parametric design, symbolising boundless growth. This innovative approach earned praise for its balance of functionality and aesthetics, embodying the event’s theme.

The Exhibition Booth Design Competition team comprised core members Aun Jin Xuan, Tee Hue Leng, Hanusiri Chandrasegran, Zhang Hengxin, Leow Keet Thong, Lee Yen Nie, Lee Mei Ting, Tan Mengin, Tan Yun Ling, and Chong Kah Han. Supporting the effort was a group of dedicated helpers, including Christen Lai Chang Hao, Boon Yu Jou, Tan Shin Yi, Dicky Ooi Qi Feng, Chung Yi Tong, Ilunga Tabitha Mujinga, Sangeetha Suresh, Lae Yati Aung (Lucia), Lee Szen Yuen, Audrey Lu Jia En, Sally Cheah Yu Xuan, Pung Xin Ning, Yong Yuan You, Shoon Lae Thwel, Yeow Ken, Zoe Chia Min Jie, Ng Sai Loong, Lee Zhi Ling, Tan Hui Ru, Tang Mun Yi, and Mia Chan Zhe Tian.

Project leaders Aun and Tee shared their pride, stating, “We feel glad and proud to win this competition. It validates our creativity and innovation, connecting our work to a broader audience of professionals and enthusiasts.” They also credited the UTAR timber workshop staff for their dedicated assistance during the two-month preparation period.

Chow’s outstanding entry in the Sketching Competition earned him the Gold Award for his remarkable ability to capture architectural excellence with precision and creativity. Reflecting on his win, he remarked, “Thank you so much for this honour. I’m grateful for everyone’s support throughout this journey. Participating in this competition has been inspiring, and I look forward to continuing my growth in drawing.”

The competition, which aimed to promote knowledge sharing, creativity, and sustainable practices in architecture, fostered networking and professional development among participants. UTAR’s achievements at this prestigious event reflect the university’s commitment to nurturing young talent and addressing modern challenges with innovative solutions.

Certificate of Achievement (Bronze Award)

Sketching Competition Gold Award winner— Chow (middle)

UTAR Team for Booth Design Competition