By Mie Hashizume
Photos by Hiro Hashizume | Nov 1, 2011
Malaysian Architecture in Japan
 |
|
Re/Mixed exhibition at Meiji University
|
The best of Malaysian contemporary architecture was recently showcased in Japan at the Meiji University in conjunction with the 24th World Congress of Architecture (UIA2011 Tokyo).
Held from Sept 5-29, the exhibition entitled, ‘Re/Mixed: The Horizon of Sustainable Architectural Design of Malaysia and Japan’ was organised by Meiji University’s Department of Architecture, School of Science and Technology and staged at the university’s museum, Ochanomizu, in Tokyo.
Re/Mixed actually made its debut at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2010 and was a project by Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) and supported by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), The exhibition highlights Malaysian contemporary architecture and was spearheaded by architect Boon Che Wee, the immedaate past PAM president (2009-2011).
Japan Institute of Architects (JIA) president Taro Ashihara was the special guest at the opening ceremony on Sept 6. At the event, Boon said: “In an age dominated by economical, environmental, political, social, and technological upheavals, all exhibits are carefully crafted case-studies of the varied ways that Malaysian architects are facing such challenges, and re-establishing the critical role of architecture as mediator of these changes.
“The diversity inherent in Re/Mixed is also a projection in response to Malaysia’s eclectic and dynamic urban setting that is fraught with conflicting aspirations.”
The Re/Mixed exhibition in Tokyo was a special event in relation to UIA2011 Tokyo. The 37 Malaysian architectural models were viewed by Japanese visitors including architects, building professionals as well as students and architectural buffs.
International cooperation
Another success factor of the event was Meiji University’s efforts to ensure international cooperation. Japanese universities such as Meiji, were now eager to accept top students from other Asian countries owing to a decline in local student enrolment due to the effects various demographic factors such a low birthrate among the Japanese, aging population as well as the aim of globalisation efforts.
 |
|
Clockwise from top left: Gallery entrance; Japanese children examining the models; 37 models presented by PAM - 10 panels by Meiji University.
|
Top Japanese universities such as Meiji - which ranks highest in popularity in Japan for the second consecutive year in the number applicants - has adopted quick and unique approaches to resolve this issue.
The 130-year-old university has established a strong relationship with Malaysia. It conferred honorary degrees on Malaysian prime ministers, namely, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in 2001 and Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in 2010. In 2007, Meiji established a representative office in the University of Technology Malaysia (UTM).
Meiji Univeristy’s Department of Architecture is now preparing for the launch of the ‘International Program in Architecture and Urban Design (IAUD)’ in its new Nakano campus, due for completion in 2013.
Meiji’s new programme validates this course as a “globally qualified professional degree from UIA, the International Union of Architects.” Currently most Japanese architects are only certified as “first-class registered architects of Japan”.
The professors who participated at Re/Mixed Tokyo are members of this new international education centre.
“This exhibition must work as the catalyst for our students to set out in the world, especially Asia including Malaysia,” said Prof Masami Kobayashi who played a key role in the event.
“We are now considering a student exchange programme between Japan and Malaysia. It will give students a great opportunity in line with the new international course.” It is hoped that productive exchanges between the two countries will be gained through this international course.
 |
|
Re/Mixed creative director Wan Sofiah Wan Ishak conducting a tour
|
Green implications
On Sept 29, the final day of the exhibition, a symposium was held at Meiji University.
Speaking on “Green Transformation/Sustainability by Design,” Boon explained the implications associated with Malaysia’s implementation of the Green Building Index (GBI). This architectural environment rating system was launched in Malaysia in 2008.
While recognising the importance of green technology, Boon stressed the critical role and requirements of ‘good design’ principles.
“Great architecture must be a solution with excellent design, not just state-of-the-art technology,” he said.
The symposium panel also comprised:
- Prof George Kunihiro (Kokushikan University), president of ARCASIA
- Assoc Prof Tomoaki Tanaka, Meiji University
- Dr. Saiffudin Ahmad, current PAM president.
Moderated by Prof Kobayashi, the discussion dwelled on the reality of green architecture, including the comparison with CASBEE（Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency), the Japanese equivalent of GBI.
Read more interesting articles:
|