The architecture fraternity celebrated the best and brightest amongst its members at the PAM Awards 2019 and PAM Annual Dinner at New World Petaling Jaya Hotel, with guest of honour Yang Berhormat Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Defence Minister. 

Since its inception in 1990, this premier awards ceremony by Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM), also known as the Malaysian Institute of Architects, marks the highest recognition for architectural excellence in Malaysia and has established itself as the nation’s most recognised honour for architects, building owners, builders and contractors. 

These Awards give recognition to Malaysian Architects who pursue excellence in design, to promote the advancement of a quality built environment that creates a positive impact — whether socially, physically or culturally — in Malaysia, as well as to highlight the diversity of Malaysian architecture. 

A Master Jury comprising of five esteemed members — Immediate PAM Past President, Ar. Ezumi Harzani, Ar. Dr Lim Teng Ngiom, Malaysian Architectural Educator Prof. Robert Powell, Eminent Foreign Architect Ar. Rita Soh, Malaysia Creative Personality Mrs Ras Adiba Radzi, PAM Awards Convener Ar. Adrianta Aziz and Co-Convener Ar. Zafarullah Rozaly. 

During the Deputy Minister’s speech, YB Liew said, “I am, in fact, of the view that architects should as much as possible be involved in the design and conceptualisation of public space and public buildings, which is why I am trying to create competitions to solicit ideas for public space and buildings. 

“Having architects proudly associated with the public space and buildings that they imagine, design and built is one good way through which our public space and our buildings can be improved. In order to achieve and maintain this association, the public sector, particularly local authorities and the Public Works Department, must be prepared to involve architects as much as they can when developing public space and buildings. 

“Our society needs to appreciate the professionalism and creativity of architects. How public space and buildings are to be conceived should not be left to political leaders, civil servants, private developers or other interested parties. In fact, architects are in a good position to speak for the society they live in and for their era. In many ways, apart from written texts, civilisation is about cities and buildings.” 

PAM President Ar. Lillian Tay said, “Our annual PAM Awards are a testimony of the skills and expertise, talent and the passion for design and dedication to the craft of our architects' community here in Malaysia, you will see that is evident in every awarded project. Awards are crucial in recognising excellence and achievement and together, to participants and winners for their efforts in this important agenda to give further recognition and hence value to our profession.” 

The Awards this year saw a total of 145 valid submissions across 13 categories: Single Residential, Multiple Residential (Low Rise), Multiple Residential (High Rise), Commercial (Low Rise), Commercial (High Rise), Public & Institutional, Education, Alteration & Addition, Conservation, Overseas, Showroom and Sport & Recreation and ‘Building of the Year’ was also conferred at the event. The ‘Building of the Year’ was also conferred at the event. 

The nominations for the PAM Awards 2019 were opened on 17 December 2018, with the launch of the Awards website and formal call for entries. In the first stage of judging, jurors shortlisted 44 projects across the categories for technical reviews. The selected projects were then visited by the appointed reviewers. 

During the event, PAM also announced its new council members, congratulating them on their appointments, and PAM Inovar Student Scholarships Awards. 

PAM Awards 2019 Winners List