Kota Kinabalu (Jan 23) - University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF) has officially introduced its Bachelor of Science in Architecture (Honours), marking the first time an architecture degree programme is being offered in Sabah.
The launch ceremony, held on Monday at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, attracted around 150 guests, comprising representatives from the Persatuan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) Sabah Chapter as well as prospective students interested in the new programme. The event was officiated by UCSF Board of Directors Chairman Datuk Dr Mohd Yaakub Johari.
A key segment of the event featured a knowledge-sharing session led by Dato’ Tengku Abdul Aziz Tengku Mahmud, who headed the development of Merdeka Tower 118, currently the world’s second tallest building. He shared professional experiences from the project and engaged with participants through a question-and-answer session.
UCSF Vice Chancellor Datuk Dr Rafiq Idris announced that the programme will welcome its first intake of students in February. He highlighted the role of strategic partners in the establishment of the degree, particularly Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) and the PAM Sabah Chapter, which provided professional, technical and advisory support. Contributions from USIM’s leadership, academic team and members of the programme’s Board of Studies were also acknowledged.
During the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor proposed the appointment of Tengku Abdul Aziz as an advisor to the Architecture Programme. He also expressed hope that the programme would help shape a future that balances development with environmental sustainability, cultural identity and progress.
For Sabahans, the introduction of this programme represents a significant step forward in higher education, allowing aspiring architects to pursue professional training within the state. It is expected to support local talent development, reduce the need for students to study architecture outside Sabah, and contribute to the long-term growth of the state’s built environment and development sector.