Welcome to Centre for the Study of Built Environment in the Malay World
(KALAM)
UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA
ABOUT KALAM
Centre for the Study of Built Environment in the Malay World (KALAM) was set up in June 1996 on the foundation of numerous intricate Measured Drawing works of Historical Buildings out of concern for the rapid disintegration and elimination of Malaysia’s architectural heritage. With the accumulation of these works since 1975, the research towards the identification, classification and analysis of the architectural heritage was established through Undergraduate and Post-Graduate studies. Today, KALAM has a documentary collection of more than 600 buildings such as Residences, Palaces, Mosques, Public Buildings, Commercial Buildings, Wakaf, Madrasah and Tombs.
Measured Drawing
Research
Consultation
Exhibition
Seminar
Conference
Workshop
Publication
OUR SERVICES
MEASURED DRAWING
This works has been going on since 1975. Students conduct research and documentation activities and produces Main Drawings, Details, Written Reports, Videos, Model, Poster and Photographs for academic reference. We offers these services at a reasonable price.
RESEARCH
Researches and the documentation of settlements and buildings are crucial to aid in the understanding of the heritage history so as certain aspects of the architectural design or planning decisions may be adapted or assimilated into the modern planning concepts.
CONSULTATION
KALAM offers consultancy services in design projects specifically related to vernacular approach, conservation and reconstruction. The preservation and reconstruction of Dato’ Biji Sura house in Duyung Island is the first KALAM job completed.
SEMINAR / WORKSHOP
The importance of seminars is related to exposures and debates where as workshops and more suited for intensive educational programmes. Both programmes are used by KALAM as platforms to deliver and expand knowledge.
EXHIBITION
KALAM possess a lot of exhibition materials such as Drawings, Artifacts, Model, Written Report, Poster and Photographs. This centre offers these materials to be exhibited anywhere in the world for the sake of propagating the knowledge of the built environment in the Malay World.
PUBLICATION
KALAM is actively involved in producing publications and videos of the traditional built environment of the Malay World. These publications and video documentaries are meant for the academic and general audience. These works are done in Malay & English languages.
OUR GALLERY
MEASURED DRAWINGS
This works has been going on since 1975. It is a compulsory subject in the architectural curriculum at the Department of Architectural in UTM. Students conduct research and documentation activities and produces Main Drawings, Details, Written Reports, Videos, Model, Poster and Photographs for academic reference. This centre encourages joint ventures in publication activities.
ARTEFACT COLLECTION
The artefacts showcased by the Centre for the Study of Built Environment in the Malay World (KALAM) are invaluable treasures that offer a glimpse into the rich architectural heritage of the Malay world. Each artefact represents a piece of history, meticulously documented and preserved to ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from these cultural gems.
VISUAL ARCHIVES
The Visual Archives offers a comprehensive photographic look at the historic buildings documented by KALAM UTM. Organised by site and structure, this gallery features photo albums capturing exterior facades, internal spaces, and unique architectural details. It provides essential real-world context to our technical drawings, allowing students, researchers, and cultural enthusiasts to visually experience the architecture.
Office & Gallery
GALERIA KALAM
Design & Fab Studio
ARTEFACT KALAM
OUR PRODUCT
KALAM: Edition 1 2020
KALAM: Edition 2 2021
KALAM: Edition 3 2022
KALAM: Edition 4 2023
KALAM: Edition 5 2024
KALAM: Edition 6 2025
OUR CLIENT
Ar. IDr. Ts. Noraslinda Abdul Rahman
KALAM's Director
