Malaysia Architecture Weeks – Borak-Borak 06: The Beginning

Published on 28 June 2025
By Firadaus Khazis Architect

On a Saturday morning at Ur-Mu @ Toffee, the air was charged with nostalgia, wisdom, and a quiet urgency to reflect on where we came from — and where we’re headed as Malaysian architects. Borak Borak 06, titled The Beginning, brought together a powerhouse panel of some of the nation’s most iconic names in architecture.

Moderated by our principal, Ar. Firadaus Khazis, the conversation was kept loose, allowing the panel’s stories and insights to flow naturally. “When you sit with giants,” he noted, “you don’t script. You listen, you connect the dots, and you make sure the lessons land with everyone in the room.”

From the very start, Ar. Kamil Merican offered a rare look into the business of architecture — from his early studio days to managing 500 people across seven profit centres, the importance of maintaining a “carrot and whip” culture, and the sobering truth of how COVID nearly drained his practice’s reserves. His message was clear: architecture is a calling, but it’s also a business, and we must be unafraid to treat it as such.

Dato’ Dr. Ar. Ken Yeang brought his signature warmth and wit, weaving personal anecdotes about the legendary “AA team” era of Malaysian architects with sharp reminders about the importance of mentorship and camaraderie. His recollections weren’t just entertaining — they captured a spirit of solidarity that is often missing in today’s practice.

Other panellists — Dato’ Ar. Hajeedar Abdul Majid, Ar. David Teh, and Ar. Jimmy Lim — each contributed moments of reflection on identity, relevance, and the value architects bring beyond design fees. Whether discussing how to remain relevant in the age of AI, or how to build long-term trust with clients akin to a personal doctor or lawyer, the underlying theme was the same: our value is only as strong as the relationships and trust we cultivate.

The session moved between laughter and gravitas, with candid talk about fees, recognition, and the way forward for the profession. The panellists’ honesty resonated deeply with an audience spanning students, young practitioners, and veterans alike.

A Gathering of Beginnings and Lessons

In closing, Ar. Firadaus reflected on the privilege of moderating such a panel:

“These are the voices that shaped Malaysian architecture. If we’re wise, we’ll not only listen — we’ll act. Because the relevance and dignity of our profession won’t be handed to us. We have to earn it, together.”

Borak Borak 06 was more than a history lesson. It was a reminder that the roots of our profession are deep, the lessons are rich, and the baton is in our hands now. And as with all beginnings, it’s up to us to carry them forward.

Featured Speakers & Presenters

• Ar. Kamil Merican – GDP Architects

• Dato’ Ar. Hajeedar Abdul Majid – Hajeedar & Associates

• Dato’ Dr. Ar. Ken Yeang – T.R. Hamzah & Yeang

• Ar. David Teh – David Teh Architect

• Ar. Jimmy Lim – Jimmy Lim Design

Malaysia Architecture Weeks – Borak-Borak 04: A Full House and a Bold Conversation on the Future of Architecture

Published on 15 June 2025
By Firadaus Khazis Architect

On a packed morning at Toffee Building, Level 4, the conversation turned inward, towards our profession, our responsibilities, and our identity as architects in Malaysia. With a full house and an energized crowd (about 150 attendees) , the session proved to be more than just another talk. It became a catalyst.

Moderated by our principal, Ar. Firadaus Khazis, the session was intentionally unscripted. “I prepared zero questions,” he shared. “Because these questions have lived in my mind for years, they’re part of the collective struggle we all face.”

A key provocation came from Ar. Dexter’s submission for this year’s Malaysian Architecture Week (MAW), which ignited questions many have been afraid to ask:

• What is our architectural identity?

• Should it be documented?

• Should it guide future architects?

These questions quickly expanded into a broader reflection on the weight we carry in shaping not just cities or towns, but kampungs, landscapes, and communities.

The discussion didn’t stop at identity. It moved deeper, tackling topics often avoided in professional settings: dignity, pride, welfare, and future-proofing the profession. As Ar. Firadaus posed to the audience:
“Are we doing this just to put food on the table, or is there something greater, something worth fighting for beyond just business?”

The session evolved into an open-floor dialogue, with insights passed from two of Malaysia’s most respected architectural voices, Kevin Mark Low and Dr. Tan, to the audience, including Ar. Bane Lim, Lim Jeng Ying, AYDA Award winners, and a number of passionate young graduates.

One of the most heated and honest parts of the evening was the discussion around recognitions, awards, and the quality of architectural deliverables. For once, this was not just about celebrating design, but questioning it, challenging it, and asking how we measure real impact.

A Long-Overdue Conversation

In his closing reflection, Ar. Firadaus shared:

“We need guidance from our seniors.
We, the adults, must act—demand fair fees, uphold the dignity of our practice, and create space for the next generation to thrive.”

Borak-Borak 04 wasn’t just a talk. It was a long-overdue conversation, one we’ve been needing to have for far too long.

And now that the door is open, we must keep it open, inviting students, young graduates, seasoned practitioners, and even those who’ve stumbled along the way. Because only through open, honest, and intergenerational dialogue can we reshape this profession for the better.

Featured Speakers & Presenters

• Azlan Syarawi – Syarawi Architect

• Ar. Dexter Yap – DECODA

• James Lim – Studio LOKA

• Ar. Loh – YP Loh Architect / Midas Creation

• Ar. Razin – Razin Architect

• Ar. Alan Teh – Alan Teh Architect (ATA)

• Ar. Qhawarizmi – Qhawarizmi Architect

December 3, 2024 – Kuala Lumpur

Architect and designer Firadaus Khazis has been announced as one of five national finalists for the Emerging Designer Award at the MIID REKA Awards 2024, Malaysia’s premier interior design awards hosted annually by the Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers (MIID).

This prestigious award recognizes rising talents in the design industry who demonstrate excellence in creativity, innovation, leadership, and societal impact. This year’s finalists reflect the growing diversity and dynamism within Malaysia’s design community, with backgrounds in architecture, interior design, and interdisciplinary practice.

Finalists – MIID Emerging Designer Award 2024:

1. Donny Lee Wei Kuan
An interior designer and consultant recognized for his design strategy work across commercial and retail sectors. Known for merging brand storytelling with spatial identity.

2. Ar. IDr Esmonde Yap Shiwen
Founder of Spatial Factors Architects, Yap is celebrated for his conceptual installation “Whispers of Timber”, which explores material expression and sensory design.

3. Cayenne Lim Yen Ching
An interior architect whose work centers around experiential spaces that engage memory, culture, and context through material and form.

4. Ar. IDr Muhamad Firadaus Khazis bin Ismail
Principal of Firadaus Khazis Architect and co-founder of SpaceLab Design & Build. Firadaus was awarded the Bronze Award in the Retail, Exhibition & Entertainment (Small & Medium) category for his installation “The Interlocking Panels”, showcased at ARCHIDEX 2024.

5. Ar. Ts. IDr Tan Kwon Chong
Director of TKCA Architects, known for socially rooted architecture and projects like SAMA Square, which integrates culture, placemaking, and sustainability.

Recognizing Visionaries Shaping the Built Environment

The Emerging Designer Award was created to honor outstanding individuals in the early stages of their professional journey. Finalists are selected for their leadership, originality, and ability to elevate industry standards through design and social responsibility.

“This award is not just a milestone for individuals—it’s a glimpse into the future of Malaysia’s design landscape,” said IDr Joe Chan Wan Hoe, MIID Vice President and Organizing Chair of the REKA Awards 2024.

The winners were honored during the MIID REKA Gala Night at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, in conjunction with the MIID 15th Anniversary celebration and REKA Conference 2024.

Awarded for “The Interlocking Panels” at ARCHIDEX 2024

Kuala Lumpur, December 2024 — Firadaus Khazis Architect is honoured to announce that our project, The Interlocking Panels – ARCHIDEX 2024, has won the Bronze Award in the Retail, Exhibition & Entertainment – Small & Medium category at the prestigious MIID REKA Awards 2024. The annual award, organized by the Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers (MIID), is widely regarded as Malaysia’s most prominent platform for celebrating excellence in interior architecture.

A Tribute to Sustainable Modularity and Craft

Featured at Hall 10, KLCC Convention Centre during ARCHIDEX 2024, The Interlocking Panels installation is a testament to sustainable design and material efficiency. Constructed from CNC-cut melamine-faced panels, the modular system showcases clean geometries and precise craftsmanship, forming a visually arresting backdrop that is both functional and eco-conscious.

“We wanted to create something immersive yet practical—demonstrating how thoughtful modularity can deliver both beauty and function. Sustainability isn’t just about materials—it’s about systems that can adapt, disassemble, and be reimagined,” shared Ar. Idr Muhamad Firadaus Khazis bin Ismail, Principal of Firadaus Khazis Architect.

The panels were designed for reusability and adaptability, ensuring minimal material wastage. The bold rhythm of interlocking forms invites interaction, enhancing the experience of spatial storytelling.

Project Details:

• Project: The Interlocking Panels – ARCHIDEX 2024

• Designer: Ar. Idr Muhamad Firadaus Khazis bin Ismail

• Firm: Firadaus Khazis Architect

• Award: Bronze, MIID REKA Awards 2024

• Category: Retail, Exhibition & Entertainment | Small & Medium

About MIID REKA Awards

The MIID REKA Awards for Industry Excellence is a hallmark of distinction in Malaysian design, recognizing interior projects that push the boundaries of creativity, sustainability, and professional execution.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – July 28, 2023 — Architect Firadaus Khazis has been honored as one of Malaysia’s “Top 40 Under 40 Emerging Architects,” a prestigious recognition awarded by Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) as part of its centennial celebration, “PAM 100 Years of Excellence.”

As the founder of FK Architect and co-founder of SpaceLab Design & Build, Firadaus has garnered attention for his innovative approach to design, blending contemporary aesthetics with cultural sensitivity. His contributions have significantly influenced Malaysia’s architectural landscape, emphasizing sustainable and community-centric designs.

The “40 Under 40” initiative, a continuation of PAM’s earlier “30 Under 40” program, aims to spotlight emerging architects who are shaping the future of the profession. The selected architects were featured in a dedicated exhibition and publication during the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival (KLAF) 2023, under the theme “ENGAGE,” to showcase their work and inspire public interest in Malaysian architecture. 2023.klaf.my2023.klaf.my

Firadaus’s work was also prominently displayed in the PAM Pavilion 2023 at KLAF, an installation celebrating PAM’s 100-year legacy. The pavilion featured a “Time Tunnel,” a curated corridor displaying the projects and profiles of 40 Malaysian architects and studios, offering visitors a journey through the evolution of local architecture. fkarchitect.my

In addition to his professional achievements, Firadaus participated in forums at institutions such as Taylor’s University and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Puncak Alam, engaging with students and professionals to discuss the evolving role of architecture in society.

Firadaus’s inclusion in the “Top 40 Under 40” list underscores his commitment to excellence and his influence as a thought leader in the field. His work continues to inspire a new generation of architects dedicated to creating spaces that resonate with Malaysia’s diverse communities.