Written By Muhammad Fareez bin Saidin
The Architectural Student Workshop (ASW) is an annual event organised by the Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) in collaboration with architecture schools across Malaysia. Established in 1987, ASW has become an important platform for architecture students nationwide to exchange ideas, showcase creativity, explore architectural challenges, and build connections across institutions. Beyond design, the workshop fosters collaboration, encourages critical thinking, and strengthens the spirit of unity among Malaysia’s future architects.
Mulasemula, the theme of ASW 2026, is a reminder to reset — embracing a new beginning and returning to the fundamentals of simplicity, adaptability, and natural regeneration. The theme encourages us to return to the basics, rediscover our creativity, adapt to change, and embrace new beginnings. It reminds us that sometimes, the best way forward is to start again.
In 2026, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Puncak Alam, hosted ASW, bringing together approximately 600 participants from architecture schools across Malaysia. The event provided a vibrant platform for students to exchange ideas, showcase their talents, explore different approaches to architecture, and strengthen the spirit of unity within Malaysia’s architectural education community.
Representing Borneo, UNIMAS proudly participated in ASW 2026 with Sangkala, bringing its own creative energy, cultural identity, and spirit of collaboration to the national gathering. The participation was not merely about competing, but also about learning from fellow architecture students, building friendships, and experiencing the diversity of architectural thinking across Malaysia.
One of the proudest moments for UNIMAS was winning First Place in Mula Gerak (Fashion). This achievement reflects the creativity, teamwork, and dedication of the students in translating the workshop’s theme into an expressive and memorable presentation. It also highlights the ability of UNIMAS students to contribute distinctive ideas and represent their university with pride on a national platform.
Beyond its achievements at ASW 2026, UNIMAS has also been entrusted with hosting the next Architectural Student Workshop in 2027. This marks an important milestone for the university and its architecture students as they prepare to welcome the national architectural student community to Sarawak. The responsibility goes beyond organising an event; it is an opportunity to create a meaningful experience, celebrate the richness of Borneo’s cultural and natural heritage, and continue the legacy of ASW for the next generation of architectural thinkers.
As UNIMAS prepares for ASW 2027, having received the mandate to host the next Architectural Student Workshop, the spirit of .Mulasemula reminds us that every ending creates space for a new beginning, every challenge offers an opportunity to grow, and every generation has the power to shape the future.
See you in Sarawak for NEO.MENOA 2027!