Kota Kinabalu (Dec 17) - The University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF), the state’s only government-owned university, will begin the first semester of 2026 by rolling out a new strategic academic programme — Sabah’s first Bachelor’s degree in Architecture.
UCSF Vice-Chancellor Datuk Dr Rafiq Idris announced that the programme is scheduled to commence in February 2026, describing it as a major step forward for higher education in Sabah. He noted that there is currently no tertiary institution in the state offering either Part 1 or a full Bachelor’s degree in Architecture.
According to him, the introduction of the programme is meant to support the state’s higher education development and is expected to bring benefits to the construction industry, Sabah and the country overall.
The Architecture Programme will be housed under UCSF’s Faculty of Arts and Creative Media. Its head, Filzah Jamjam, said the degree combines creative arts with sustainable design concepts, drawing inspiration from local knowledge and eco-centred perspectives.
She explained that the programme is designed to nurture architects who are capable of creating built environments that respect both nature and cultural context. To achieve this, the curriculum places strong emphasis on linking academic theory with hands-on practice through real-world projects and professional-style assignments.
“This structure allows students to confront real design challenges, sharpening their problem-solving abilities, creativity and adaptability, while preparing them for the complexities of professional architectural practice,” she said.
Malaysian Institute of Architects (Persatuan Arkitek Malaysia, PAM) Sabah Chapter chairman Ar. Daniel Koh Chung Hou welcomed the establishment of the programme in Kota Kinabalu, calling it a strategic investment in Sabah’s long-term development.
He said it would expand access to architectural education for local students, reduce the need for them to study elsewhere, and help retain local talent within the state. He added that training architects in Sabah also ensures that education is grounded in the state’s distinctive climate, culture and communities.
PAM Sabah Chapter deputy chairman Ar. Sharon Magdalene Amin highlighted that architecture is a demanding profession that requires disciplined training and intellectual growth. While creativity and artistic ability are important, she said students must also undergo rigorous education that challenges their ideas and prepares them to defend professional decisions.
She noted that having an architecture school in Sabah would increase the number of local architects who can contribute to national development while safeguarding the state’s cultural and historical identity. She also congratulated UCSF on the introduction of its Bachelor of Science in Architecture programme and wished the institution continued success.
Meanwhile, UCSF registrar Norashiqin Ahmad said the new programme offers Sabahans the chance to develop and display their architectural talents within their own state.
She said it is timely for students, particularly Sabahans, to cultivate and express their architectural abilities on home ground, adding that UCSF looks forward to welcoming these future architects to the university.