Winning AIR design set to rise

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Sim (third left) handing over the first prize to MOA Architects

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SAMARAHAN: Hock Seng Lee (HSL) will build one of the winning entries from the AIR Architecture Competition, bringing to life a people-first urban design and marking a milestone in Sarawak’s creative development efforts.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, in a speech delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at HSL Tower yesterday, praised HSL for its forward-thinking approach and commitment to turning bold ideas into real projects.

“Competitions of this calibre require trust, expertise and energy,” he said. “I commend HSL for not only sponsoring AIR, but for pledging to construct one of the winning schemes.”

He also thanked the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) for lending professional rigour to the process and pointed to the earlier Langit competition in 2021 as a foundation for what AIR has achieved.

“Langit showed the value of collaboration. AIR takes that further—it reflects a model of development that brings together planners, architects, investors and the public.”

The Premier highlighted a recurring theme in the entries: the river as a vital, living corridor rather than an obstacle, echoing Sarawak’s historic ties to its waterways.

“Great cities grow from great rivers. The competition title—‘Project AIR: The AIR above us, di bawah AIR mengalir’—captures our tradition of living in harmony with nature,” he said.

He stressed that good architecture puts people at the centre. “Cities are judged not by skylines, but by how they serve their people—are there places to meet, be active, and feel rooted?”

Abang Johari said the initiative supports Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, which envisions a green, digital economy driven by talent and creativity.

“Architecture is central to this agenda. AIR pushes our imagination and helps turn policy into projects.”

He also welcomed HSL’s intention to re-engage all winning and commended teams, noting that Langit’s final built design came from a third-placed scheme.

“That openness to talent is commendable. When we build well, we create not just buildings, but better communities—and the real winners will be the people who live in them.”

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