The Malaysian Institute of Architects (Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia – PAM) proudly presents the launch of an exhibition that captures the heart and soul of Kuala Lumpur’s vibrancy. The showcase, titled “Vibes KL: Vibrancy and Diversity,” is an eclectic display of architectural, artistic, and creative works that embody the bustling, diverse city. The exhibition, open to the public, is running now and will continue until November 30, 2024 at PAM Centre in Bangsar.

Featuring contributions from a wide array of creators, including architects, artists, photographers, graphic designers, and illustrators, the exhibition draws inspiration from the vibrant culture and dynamic urban landscape of Malaysia’s capital. Each artist’s work portrays a unique vision of the city’s energy and eclectic character, blending visual arts and architecture in compelling ways.

PAM recently launched the exhibition with a special live painting performance by contemporary artist and process painter Dr. Jalaini Abu Hassan. The performance was a tribute to World Architecture Day 2024, celebrated annually on the first Monday of October, and also marked part of this year’s Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival (KLAF 2024). PAM President, Adjunct Prof Ar Adrianta Aziz, and KLAF 2024 Director, Ar Dr Lim Teng Ngiom, were also present at the event.

The “Vibes KL: Vibrancy and Diversity” exhibition immerses visitors in the layers of Kuala Lumpur’s urban fabric, featuring striking photographs, intricate illustrations, and diverse artworks across multiple collections. Each collection offers a fresh perspective on the city, inviting visitors to explore the spirit of the people and the stories embedded in the urban landscape.

The exhibition is divided across the six floors of the PAM Centre, with each level dedicated to a unique theme that reflects the multifaceted nature of the city:

• Ground Floor – Temu / Meet
• 1st Floor – Jalan / Street
• 2nd Floor – Suara / Voices
• 3rd Floor – Rasa / Feel
• 4th Floor – Kata / Say
• 5th Floor – Ceria / Happy
• 6th Floor – Jiwa / Soul

Adjunct Prof Ar Adrianta Aziz, reflecting on the exhibition, noted, “Kuala Lumpur is a city of contrasts, where the fluidity of architectural forms and the rich diversity of its inhabitants have created a unique urban identity. It’s the irregularity and randomness of the city’s growth that gives it such character and charm.”

KLAF 2024 Director, Ar Dr Lim Teng Ngiom, added, “The exhibition doesn’t follow a strict curation but rather reflects the organic, almost chaotic vibrancy of the city itself. Just as Kuala Lumpur’s buildings are diverse and often unstructured, each person in the city adds their own vibrant story to this urban tapestry.”

Exhibition Details

The “Vibes KL: Vibrancy and Diversity” exhibition will be open at the PAM Centre, located at 99L Jalan Tanduk, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. Visitors can explore the artwork from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, and 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays. The exhibition will be closed on Sundays and public holidays.

About Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM)

Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM), also known as the Malaysian Institute of Architects, is the national professional body representing the architecture community in Malaysia. With a mission to “promote the advancement of architecture and the architectural profession for the betterment of society,” PAM has been at the forefront of championing architectural excellence since its founding in 1923.

Originally established as the Institute of Architects Malaya, the organization was renamed the Federation of Malaya Society of Architects (FMSA) in 1948 and was affiliated with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). In 1967, reflecting the national independence, PAM was officially registered under its current name. Today, PAM boasts a membership of approximately 5,000 professionals, graduates, and students, with chapters across Malaysia, including in Sabah, Sarawak, Penang, Johor Bahru, and the East Coast.

In 2017, PAM celebrated a significant milestone with the opening of its headquarters in Bangsar, a GBI Platinum-rated building designed through an open architectural competition. This building is a testament to PAM’s commitment to sustainable and innovative architecture, aligning with its broader goals of advancing the architectural profession and raising public awareness about the importance of good design.

PAM continues to support the architecture community through initiatives like the annual PAM Architecture Awards and a wide range of publications and programs focused on architecture, sustainability, and urban development. To learn more, visit www.pam.org.my.

Featured Image Artist: Ahmad Fuad Osman