Award Ceremony for Library Interior Design Competition 2025

On Wednesday, 5th March 2025, at 2:00 pm, the highly anticipated Award Ceremony for the Library Interior Design Competition took place at the Student Service Department of First City University College. This exciting event marked the culmination of weeks of hard work and innovative design concepts by students from the BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design program. The competition, which was held earlier in February, gave students the opportunity to showcase their talent in reimagining the campus library, turning it into a more engaging, functional, and sustainable space. The students were challenged to think beyond the traditional library layout, incorporating elements that would encourage learning, collaboration, and environmental consciousness

The five finalists—Desmond Saw Wei Zheng, Wong Yit Jin, Staneley Eng Ceng Yee, Alice Lee Kim Lan, and Gan Wei Xuan—were recognized for their innovative designs that emphasized practicality, aesthetics, and sustainability. Each finalist presented their concepts, focusing on multifunctional layouts and eco-friendly elements to enhance the library’s role as a collaborative learning hub. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates and prizes to the top winners. The event highlighted the importance of design in creating spaces that inspire learning and collaboration, showcasing the impressive talent and dedication of the students. The competition was a great success, offering students a platform to demonstrate their skills and vision for the future of interior design GOLD AWARD-ALICE LEE KIM LAN SILVER AWARD-WONG YIT JIN BRONZE AWARD- STANELEY ENG CENG YEE HONORARY MENTION-DESMOND SAW WEI ZHENG HONORARY MENTION-GAN WEI XUAN

GOLD AWARD-ALICE LEE KIM LAN

SILVER AWARD-WONG YIT JIN

BRONZE AWARD- STANELEY ENG CENG YEE

HONORARY MENTION-DESMOND SAW WEI ZHENG

HONORARY MENTION-GAN WEI XUAN

IAD LECTURE SERIES 2025

On March 5th, 2025, at 2:00 PM, IAD club host a unique and engaging talk titled "Bringing Ideas to Life". This event will feature IDR Jim Lee, Head of Design & Tenancy Fit at Capitaland Investment (Malaysia), who will share his extensive knowledge and experience in the design industry. Whether you're a budding designer, an architecture student, or simply someone interested in the power of design to shape the world around us, this event promises to be an inspiring and informative experience. IAD Club also hosted a second talk on 'Aesthetic Green Living with Top Mix Surface Materials,' presented by our knowledgeable speaker, Mr. Low Chin Loon.

IDR Jim Lee is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience transforming conceptual designs into successful, real-world projects. During the talk, he will explain on the process of taking an idea from paper to reality. Jim will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, strategies, and techniques used to overcome obstacles and create designs that not only meet client expectations but also stand the test of time.

Mr Low shared about the importance of understanding innovative surface materials like Top Mix offers numerous advantages for interior designers. Top Mix, known for its durability and versatility, allows designers to create stunning, sustainable, and functional spaces. By incorporating these materials, designers can achieve aesthetically pleasing surfaces that are not only visually appealing but also eco-friendly. The unique properties of Top Mix, such as its ability to blend seamlessly with various design elements, provide endless creative possibilities. For interior designers, knowledge of such innovative materials helps stay ahead of trends, meet clients' growing demand for sustainable solutions, and craft interiors that are both stylish and resilient

At the end of the event, a token of appreciation will be presented to both speakers as a gesture of gratitude for their valuable contributions to the event and to the field of design. It will be a memorable conclusion to an afternoon filled with knowledge and inspiration.

FDSA 2025's Institution-Level Certificate Giving Ceremony

On February 21, 2025, the White Canvas Gallery at First City University hosted an exciting and inspiring event—the DSA 2025 Institution-level Certificate Giving Ceremony. This event brought together some of Malaysia's most promising design students, celebrating their hard work, creativity, and dedication to their craft. The DSA 2025 competition aims to discover and highlight exceptional design talent from across Malaysia. Today’s award ceremony recognized the incredible finalists who have demonstrated remarkable vision and innovation in their projects, marking a significant step in their journey to the second round of the competition. These students are set to compete with other top universities in the nation, and the ceremony was a moment to honor their achievements so far. The finalists for this prestigious event were: • Rempah Ratus by Kimberly Oddie Grinsam • Lit Books by Justina Lee Yi • The Food Justice Centre by Lee Zhu Ying

Each of these projects showcased creativity and unique design solutions, offering a glimpse into the future of Malaysia’s design industry. "The ceremony commenced at 2:30 PM, with the MC setting the stage for a meaningful celebration of design excellence. After an insightful speech by the Dean of the FDBE, Assistant Professor Chua Huwi Huwi, followed by speeches from Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Saw Sor Heoh and the Representative of FSDA, the event proceeded with the Awards Presentation, where the finalists were recognized for their outstanding work. The event ended with a group photograph to commemorate the moment and refreshments, allowing everyone to network and celebrate the achievements of the day."

Organized by ACG Media and initiated by DOTY, this ceremony is a testament to the importance of nurturing young design talent in Malaysia. It’s more than just an award—it’s an opportunity for these students to gain recognition, build their professional networks, and inspire others in the creative community. Congratulations to all the finalists! The future of design in Malaysia looks brighter than ever with such inspiring individuals leading the way.

AYDA Award 2024

The AYDA Award 2024, organized by Nippon Paint Malaysia, was held on December 12, 2024, at M World Hotel (Avante Hotel). This event provides a platform for emerging designers, featuring creative competitions, seminars, and lectures to inspire and empower the next generation of talent.

Man Yuet Thung, a Year 4 student from the Bachelor of Interior Architecture and Design (BIAD) programme at First City University College, achieved exceptional success at the AYDA Award 2024. Among more than 1,500 entries, Man was chosen as a finalist and win the Silver Award and the Best Colour Choice Award in the Interior Design category, underscoring FCUC’s dedication to fostering young talent and promoting excellence in the design industry. The recognition received at the AYDA Award 2024 highlights FCUC’s commitment to creating a dynamic learning environment that nurtures creative students. Congratulations to Man Yuet Thung and her mentors for their dedication and hard work, which played a key role in achieving such outstanding success at this prestigious event.

Mou Signing Ceremony 20th Dec 2024

On 20th December 2024, First City University and ACG Media Sdn Bhd formalized their collaboration with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the White Canvas Gallery, Level 3 South Building. This agreement aims to offer students hands-on experience through real-world industry projects, helping them enhance their design skills and prepare for the future.

The launching of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Saw Sor Heoh and was also attended by the Dean of the FDBE, Assistant Professor Chua Huwi Huwi, representatives from ACG Media Sdn Bhd, Mr Alvin Chang Kok Kit, Chief Executive Officer & Mr Juliet Hong, Director, ACG Media Sdn Bhd. The MoU focuses on equipping First City University students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the design and media industries. Through this partnership, students will work on industry-driven projects with ACG Media, providing them with invaluable exposure and practical experience.

This collaboration is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights the partnership between First City University and ACG Media Sdn Bhd, a leader in the publishing industry. Secondly, it underscores the shared commitment to nurturing young talent in the creative industry. By working with industry experts, students will gain the industry-specific skills and creative insights needed to succeed and contribute meaningfully to the design world. Established in 2013, ACG Media Sdn Bhd is one of Malaysia’s fastest-growing publishing houses, with seven titles in its portfolio. It has become one of the largest publishers of home-related magazines in the country, known for its innovative editorial approach and high-quality design. This MoU signing represents a milestone in bridging the gap between education and industry and is an exciting opportunity for both students and ACG Media to create a lasting impact on Malaysia’s design sector.

Niro Granite Showroom Visit

On 20 November 2024, 45 students from the Diploma in Interior Design(DID) program visited the Niro granite showroom in Shah Alam. This study trip was very beneficial for the students who took part as they got to learn in advance about the latest tiles-making technology, tiles properties, and how to install tiles correctly to avoid tile failure.

Our trip begins with a welcoming speech by Ms Cheryl from the Niro Granite team. Niro Granite also arranges two valuable Talks for us regarding the brand and history of Niro Granite. Students get to know common Niro granite products and their strengths so that they can propose to their clients in the future when they work. The 2nd talk was shared by Mr Darren and he explained in detail about different types of tiles sold in Niro, the applications of each tile, and also the right way to install tiles to avoid tiling failures.

 Nevertheless, one of the Niro granite staff also took us around for a tour of the Niro Granite showroom, so that students could see and touch the real tile samples which have many different finishes. In the showroom, we also can see how Niro applies tiles in the bedroom, kitchen, and reception area.

Students also can witness Niro Granite's creative hub and explore the visualization software that Niro Granite uses to deal with their daily customers. Furthermore, Niro granite staff also arrange a demonstration of slit stop tiles and explain the strength of the tiles and how it is better compared to the tiles sold by another supplier.

Crystal Kim Zuan Yu This study trip taught me valuable knowledge about tiles application & how to install tiles properly giving me the confidence to communicate with contractors during managing a site project in the future. Toh Yee Her This study trip taught me about different types of tile finishes and also we can touch and feel the tile finishes helped me to improve my color and material selection according to different design styles.

The trip ended with a group photograph and a token of appreciation was presented to Ms Cheryl for arranging a wonderful tour around the showroom. The trip offers students valuable knowledge to future designers so that they know how to apply the right materials for their projects.

TIMBER JOINERY TALK NOV 2024

On 8th Nov 2024, the Faculty of Design and Built Environment organized a Timber Joinery talk for Diploma in Interior Design and BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design students along with their lecturers. The event took place at the Lecturer Theatre 1 at FCUC.The day began with an inspiring talk by Mr. Zul Fadzly Mohd Salleh, who provided an in-depth explanation about timber joinery beginning from the Tanggam system which is one of the timber joinery that Mr Zul specialized in and widely used in his master’s project, which is the Tanggam Pavilion.

He also shared different types and classifications of Tanggam which students can also make use of in their assignments and also their projects in the future. The Tanggam pavilion is very interesting and inspiring as it helps to convince students not to only rely only on bolts and nuts connection but it is possible to construct a pavilion or temporary structure with just timber joinery without any screws.

As the talk ended, students took part in a Q&A session that allowed them to have a deeper understanding of the topics discussed. All students learn a lot from Mr. Zul as he is very patient in attending to each question voiced out by students. Mr Zul shares a lot of valuable knowledge such as different types of timber and even specifically which timber is suitable for which types of pavilion and supports.

The session ends by having students look at Mr Zul Joinery's sketches, journal, and also joinery prototype. Students learn a lot from the talk as they gain a lot of knowledge that they can utilize directly in their current semester assignments. They also learn different types of timber joinery and know how to use and when to use them according to different situations. Nevertheless, they learn different types of timber and their application as well.