Joint Urban Design Study between Savajanik College of Engineering & Technology and Universiti Sains Malaysia

Photo by Daniel Lee

From the 25th to the 27th of September 2010, SERI was proud to host and facilitate a joint Urban Design Study workshop of selected enclaves in George Town by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Savajanik College of Engineering and Technology, Surat, India.

The study was part of an exchange to give students a multicultural exposure and gain an understanding of different design methodologies and approaches. The three day intensive workshop included field visits supported by inputs from lectures and presentations from faculty members and local experts for guidance under the tutelage of Senior Fellow Prof. Dr. Jimmy Lim. The study included the study of land-use, housing, building typologies, heritage, traditions and cultures, evolution pattern, streetscapes, urban spaces, etc. The goal was to generate ideas for an identified location and to come up with an “out-of-the-box” approach to solving urban and related issues. The local city council (MPPP) provided support by identifying locations for study and site plans of the respective sites for the students use.

The first day kicked off with a candid and concise overview of Penang by SERI’s Senior Researcher, Mr. Khor Hung Teik. It was followed up by a brief slide presentation from Prof. Lim to contextualise the sites and the task at hand so that the students will have a good working knowledge of the locations and its surrounds. After breaking into their respective groups, the students headed out to their respective sites of study to such locales like Chowrasta Market, Prangin Road Market, Campbell Road Market, King Edward’s Pier, Marina and the Ferry Terminal to explore, research, photograph, make notes and sketches. After their brief excursion, Pn. Maimunah of World Heritage Incorporated presented on the value of conservation and preservation and the significance of the inscription of George Town as a World Heritage City.

And so, the group of students from Savajanik and USM worked tirelessly over the next two days at #12 to showcase their creativity and articulated ideas with impressively detailed sketches and models to a panel of experienced lecturers and professionals in architecture, urban planning and design who provided constructive criticism and compliments.

The night ended with a gift appreciation ceremony, photo shoots and a vegetarian dinner to the delight of all involved. The events, processes and presentations will be compiled into a report to be presented to SERI, WHI, and the MPPP.

By Daniel Lee