An Academic Exploration: Discovering Malacca's Vibrant Culture

On 2 February 2024, 68 students from the BA (Hons) Interior Architecture & Design programme embarked on an enriching study trip in Malacca.

The journey started by visiting Kampung Morten, a historically traditional Malay village in Malacca City Centre in the Malaysian state of Malacca. This unique village provided students to experience the rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life of the Malay community. In addition, students can experience the interior and exterior Malay house design characteristics and elements which benefits the students as this serves as an important knowledge for an interior designer. 

The highlight of the trip was the captivating Melaka River Cruise, which offered students a mesmerizing journey through the historical veins of Malacca. Drifting along the serene waters of the Malacca River, students witnessed the blend of history, culture, and architecture. The cruise provided an educational experience, bringing history to life and leaving a lasting impression on the students' academic journey.

The study trip concluded in Jonker Street, brimming with heritage and charm. Here, students engaged in a comprehensive cultural mapping exercise, documenting the historical significance and contemporary vibrancy of this iconic thoroughfare. Through research, observation, and community engagement, students celebrated and preserved the rich cultural heritage of Jonker Street.

In conclusion, the study trip to Malacca proved to be an unforgettable journey. The students carried not only memories but also a renewed sense of appreciation for Melaka diverse culture.

Reimagining Retail Space - Design Competition

A group of students from the Year 2 BA(Hons) Interior Architecture and Design were trilled when they were announced as shortlisted and winners for the "Reimagining Retail Space Design Competition". This competition was a collaboration between Alpine Legacy Sdn Bhd and First City University College which started in November 2023 and concluded on 19 January 2024. The prize-giving ceremony was held at the First Floor meeting room of the 5 Elements Hotel on Jalan Sultan, Kuala Lumpur.

The competition, which showcased the results of the innovative student integrated projects under the guidance of lecturer C.K Foo, challenged participants to explore the transformation of an old place, community, or neighbourhood through contemporary development, emphasizing the social and economic aspects. The judging panel, featuring esteemed industry professionals IDr. Ong Kian Tat and Ms. Soong Mei Ling selected three exceptional designs out of the ten shortlisted participants.

The prize-giving ceremony was graced by Mr. Alan Mak, General Manager of Alpine Legacy (M) Sdn. Bhd., and Assistant Professor Chua Huwi Huwi, Dean of the Faculty of Design & Built Environment, along with the Programme Coordinators - Ms. Norhayati binti Ibrahim, IDr Fakhul Zaman, and Mr. Phil Su.

Generously sponsored by Alpine Legacy, the prizes for the winners included cash rewards and exciting vouchers that included a suite room night-stay at the exquisite The 5 Elements Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

Congratulations to all the winners:

Dhinesh Kumar s/o Ilamaran

First prize (Cash RM500 + 2D1N Suite Room for up to 4 persons @ The 5 Elements Hotel Voucher + Funko Pop! Collectible Voucher + MIXUE Ice Cream&Tea Voucher)

Kang Xi Ping

Second Prize(Cash RM300 + 2D1N Suite Room for 2 persons @ The 5 Elements Hotel Voucher + Funko Pop! Collectible Voucher + MIXUE Ice Cream&Tea Voucher)

Jasmine Yap Jia Min

Third Prize (Cash RM200 + 2D1N Deluxe Room for 2 persons @ The 5 Elements Hotel Voucher + Funko Pop! Collectible Voucher + MIXUE Ice Cream&Tea Voucher)

Thank you Alpine Legacy sdn bhd, the FDBE team, and both IDr. Ong Kian Tat and Ms. Soong Mei Ling! Your contributions make this event successful. Lastly well done to all the students.

 

DEGREE SHOWCASE SQ JAN 2024: Unboxing The Future

DEGREE SHOWCASE SQ JAN 2024: Unboxing The Future

The most anticipated degree showcase is back! The Sequence 2024 is a graduation showcase presented by degree graduates specializing in Interior Architecture & Design, Graphic Design, Fashion Marketing, and Furniture & Product Design.

  The concept of "Unboxing the Future" revolves around a wholehearted embrace of technology to unlock the potential of our future. In a world driven by constant technological advancement, our goal is not to fear or resist these changes but to enthusiastically welcome them. We recognize that technology holds the key to a multitude of possibilities, and our concept encourages us to open this technological 'box' and harness its power. By fully embracing and utilizing the latest technologies, we can shape a future that is not only in harmony with these innovations but also empowered by them. "Unboxing the Future" represents a mindset that leads us towards a future where we leverage technology as a powerful tool to inspire creativity, drive innovation, and shape our path forward.

      The launching of the SEQUENCE JAN 2024 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, and our guest of honor, IDr. Christine Rowland. Nevertheless, the event was also attended by faculty members, distinguished guests, and industry collaborators.

      A total of 38 student projects were displayed at SEQUENCE this year, including 29 projects from the Degree in Interior Design curriculum, 4 projects from the Degree in Graphic Design program, 4 projects from the Degree in Fashion Marketing program, and 1 project from Degree in Furniture & Product Design.

   Thank you to all the industry collaborators, guests and family who has show support and attended the event. 

    The hardwork of everyone and every department makes this event successful. Every First City UC Graduate and the lecturers played an important role in planning, designing, constructing, and organizing this great event. And I believe this will be memorable and long cherished by all of us as we enter the new chapter of our life. You guys have been amazing, till we meet again! 

        For more information on The Sequence 2024:

        https://www.sequence2024.com/

        The graduates E-booklet is available at:                                                                                                       https://www.sequence2024.com/e-pub

                                 

TRANSFORMATIVE INSIGHTS FROM INDUSTRY EXPERTS AT THE FINAL DESIGN REVIEW

The culmination of the BA (Hons) Interior Architecture & Design Final Review on 21 December 2023, signifies a significant milestone for students in the Department of Built Environment, within the Faculty of Design & Built Environment. This event marks the conclusion of the students' demanding progression through the Design Studio 3, 4, 5, and 6 modules.

What sets this review apart was the presence of 12 esteemed industry assessors carefully curated for their expertise and experience, representing a diverse spectrum of leading design entities:

1. Hannah Ho (Jupiter Studio)

2. Kelvin Lee (Mind Sketch Interior Studio)

3. Soong Meiling (Urban Catalyst Interiors Sdn Bhd)

4. IDr Ong Kian Tat (Bloom Design Sdn Bhd)

5. Hamiza Parman (JDM Design Built)

6. Asnini Rahman (TenQ Group Sdn Bhd)

7. Idzwan Sawal (MVH Design Studio)

8. IDr Masnul Lubis (Studio Lubis)

9. Rex Law Yit Hong (RIAKL)

10. Ahmad Tamimi (Atma Cipta)

11. Hafizuddin Haron (UiTM Puncak Alam)

12. Aida Anis (Aidea Space (M) Services)

Teaching team with all the industry guests 

The involvement of these industry experts transcends evaluation; it is a bridge between academia and real-world application. Students have the unparalleled opportunity to showcase their innovative design solutions, receive invaluable feedback, and network directly with these esteemed professionals. This interaction not only validates their hard work but also offers insights into the industry’s expectations, fostering a deeper understanding of practical implications.

For the aspiring designers, this review was not just a culmination; it was a launchpad. It signified the transition from their theoretical learning to the practical world, paving the way for their future endeavours. The event stood as a testament to the Department of Built Environment’s commitment to nurturing holistic professionals poised to make meaningful contributions to the world of interior architecture and design.

20LIMA:10 MIID STUDENTS’ SATURDAY 2023

This year, 20LIMA:10 MIID Students’ Saturday was a collaborative effort between the Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers (MIID) and the Faculty of Design & Built Environment, First City University College. The event served as a vibrant platform for interior design and interior architecture students to engage in creative competitions, and network with their peers and industry professionals.

More than 700 interior designs and interior architecture students and representatives from 20 public and private higher learning institutions across Malaysia has gathered at First City University College for the 20LIMA:10 MIID Students’ Saturday event on 11 November 2023.

The full day event started with arrival of participants as early as 730am, and followed by parade competition and launching ceremony.

This is followed by product talk by Topmix Products Sdn Bhd, and inter-varsity competitions:- Art Attack, Art Installation, Seating Unit and Design Issues competition. The event ended with performances competition (Stage on the Move) by all varsities and prize giving ceremony.

 

Lunch with food trucks and workshops are also available for all participants during intermittence. Design Competition artworks were also exhibited at the lobby for all reviews.

In a tight competition against 19 other esteemed higher learning institutions and a staggering 600+ talented, budding interior designers, First City University College students showcased their talent and skills and took home a remarkable haul of awards. The results were nothing short of sensational, with First City University College students securing 2 Gold, 4 Silver, 2 Bronze, and 3 Honourable Mention awards across a multitude of design categories.

But that's not all! First City University College also distinguished itself by earning 1 Silver and 1 Bronze in the "Competition by Institution" category.

Here’s the full list of First City University College’s outstanding achievements:

A. DESIGN COMPETITION – DIPLOMA

I. RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

Desmond Saw Wei Zheng – Gold

Lim Lee Tong – Silver

II. COMMERCIAL DESIGN

Soh Xiao Jing - Bronze

Lim Wei Jian – Honourable Mention

III. OFFICE DESIGN

Fan Wen Jin - Silver

Ng Qi Wen – Honourable Mention

IV. HOSPITALITY DESIGN

Ooi Qi Earn – Honourable Mention

V. INTEGRATED DESIGN

Jorlynn Kee Jia Xin - Gold

Eng Qi Wu – Silver

B. DESIGN COMPETITION – DEGREE

I. INSTITUTIONAL DESIGN

Ku Shaw Chern – Silver

II. INTEGRATED DESIGN

Alison Yap Xin Yi - Bronze

C. COMPETITION BY INSTITUTION

I. OPENING PARADE EXTRAVAGANT

First City University College - Bronze

II. STAGE ON THE MOVE

First City University College - Silver

Congratulations again for all the winners! You make us proud!