Zaha Hadid Architects' First Project in Malaysia: Discovery City in Johor

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) is ready to make its first step in Malaysia. Collaborating with JLand Group Sdn Bhd (JLG) has been selected to design the masterplan for Discovery City in Johor, Malaysia. It is an ambitious project for a 582-hectare mixed-use development within Ibrahim Technoloplis (IBTEC) in Johor. Not only is it a milestone for Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) as its first project in Malaysia, but it is also a significant moment for the development of design in Malaysia as the firm’s distinctive approaches will shape the future of urban planning in the region.

Conceptual Aerial View (cr: Zaha Hadid Architects)

ZHA’s approach to Discovery City will include many innovations in smart city technology and a strong commitment to minimizing environmental impact. Embracing circularity and fostering a symbiotic relationship between the built and natural environments is the project's core goal. The plan provides advanced design and construction methods and makes efforts such as using locally sourced and recycled materials, renewable energy systems, and water conservation techniques to significantly reduce energy and water consumption. This design reflects ZHA’s vision of combining architecture with its natural context to create a harmony that is not only visually stunning but also considers ecological aspects.

Interior Concept for Office Buildings Within Discovery City (cr: Zaha Hadid Architects)

Later, Discovery City is envisioned as a model of sustainable city development while remaining integrated with the surrounding area's landscape. ZHA, as the leader of this project, is committed to ensuring that Discovery City's process and realization are adjusted to local and international sustainability.

According to Gianluca Racana as the director of Zaha Hadid Architects, this emphasizes more on this firm's dedication to creating architectural designs that have more impact in improving and appreciating the environment. This opportunity was taken to further explore the possibility of new designs in Malaysia. After the first ZHA project in Malaysia was carried out, it is hoped to inspire a new era of sustainable architecture. With a mature design concept, it has a target to be launched in 2025. Discovery City's existence is an important development in presenting the future of design and sustainability in Malaysia.

Conceptual Aerial View (cr: Zaha Hadid Architects)

Datuk Sr Akmal Ahmad as Deputy Chairman of Land Group, said the partnership with Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) reflects a commitment to regional and international collaboration. With the success of this project, it can later become an investment destination and a major component in The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) worth billions of ringgit which has a positive impact on creating jobs for the local community and further strengthening the position of JLand Group (JLG) as a real estate developer as a whole.