Getting to Know Malaysian Architecture Through 3 Architecture Firms in Malaysia With Their Works

In terms of location, Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia, separated by the South China Sea into two regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia in Kalimantan. Its unique geography surrounds Malaysia with many different countries and cultures, contributing to a diverse and forward-thinking architectural landscape.

The historical background of Malaysia, which began with the Malay kingdoms that were colonized by the British Empire in the 18th century, has made the existing buildings richer and more diverse, from mosques with intricate carvings to elegant colonial buildings standing side by side on the streets of George Town, a testament to the reality of the country's architectural heritage.

Street in Georgetown Old Town (cr: Finding Beyond)

Today, Malaysia’s modern architecture is defined by technologically advanced projects, emphasizing sustainable design and architectural innovation. The Petronas Twin Towers designed by Argentine-American architect César Pelli and the visionary works of Hijjas Kasturi have reshaped the urban landscape of Kuala Lumpur.

Many Malaysian architects draw inspiration from traditional Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous motifs, blending contemporary designs with elements closely related to Malaysia’s multicultural cultures. This is evident in projects like the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, where traditional Islamic architecture harmoniously integrates with modern museum design principles. The development of Forest City in Johor demonstrates Malaysia’s commitment to integrating green spaces and innovative technologies to promote an environmentally friendly future for its people. Malaysia has succeeded in shaping its future identity without sacrificing or abandoning its cultural roots, becoming a pioneer in balancing history, technology and innovative, progressive architectural design. As such, more and more Malaysian architectural firms are emerging with their various works, and we provide a brief summary of them below:

Architects 61

Kia Peng Suites in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (cr: Architects 61)

Troika Kota Bharu (cr: Architects 61)

Has a proven track record of over 25 years since its founding in 1995 by Jeffrey LIng. Based in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, Malaysia. Affiliated with one of the largest regional architecture firms in Singapore Architects 61 Pte Ltd established since 1974. Experienced in master planning, mixed-use developments, offices, hotels, civil engineering, andresidential and urban heritage conservation. Registered with the US Green Building Council (USBGC) and a member of GBI as it believes that this is the direction that must be taken for sustainable development. Some of his most prominent design works include Troika Kota Bharu in Kelantan, Malaysia, Kia Peng Suites in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Continew in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Lakeville in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

DRTAN LM Architect (DTLM)

House No. 18 in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia  (cr: DRTAN LM Architect)

The Wood Box in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (cr: DRTAN LM Architect)

It is an architectural firm owned by Ar. Dr. Tan Loke Mun operating in Selangor, Malaysia. His works focus on embracing and interpreting regionalism in a modern social context. The rapid changes in the world's landscape make him believe that every well-designed building and space can add value to all its users. Working based on typology allows him to successfully interpret and translate regional metaphors with simple forms into designs that make them more environmentally friendly. Some of DTLM's important projects include 23 Terrace in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,House No. 18 in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, Clay Roof House, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, 8D House, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, The Wood Box, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and many more.

KUEE Architecture

Galasa Event Place (cr: KUEE Architecture)

BVH Office Headquarters (cr: KUEE Architecture)

As an ISO 9001 architecture firm that has won many awards from PAM (Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia). Founded by Ar. Shyuan Kuee in 2012, the results of his design work have spread to various countries, presenting buildings that focus on simplicity and functional value. Having a belief in the principle of "Less is More". It can be found in his work that there is no structure, decorative features, or excessive colors and materials in a building without reason. Some of his famous projects such as the Rebranding of Pantai Hospital Ipoh, Malaysia, 1 Lasam in Ipoh, Malaysia, Galasa Event Place in Ipoh, Malaysia, BVH Office Headquarters in Ipoh, Malaysia, KUEE Architect's Residence in Ipoh, Malaysia.