PAM-DBKL to design temporary shelters for the homeless

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) and Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL) launched the PAM-DBKL Architectural Ideas Competition 2014 in Designing Temporary Shelters for the KL Homeless at the Sime Darby Convention Centre, Bukit Kiara, on Wednesday.

The competition was launched by Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Ahmad Phesal Talib and PAM president Chan Seong Aun.

The competition is aimed at providing short-term shelter for the homeless and the poor.

“This is a temporary solution to help them [the homeless or low-income group]. We need to plan [for their well-being] until they get back on their feet.

“Families will be given priority. There will be facilities for showering, and healthcare will also be given,” said Ahmad Phesal.

Chan said with the increasing need for affordable housing, it is important for architects to note that “people purchase houses using their life savings”.  

“So, we [architects] have to look after people’s money. If we make a mistake, it is the public who lose out, not the banks or the developers.”

Added Ahmad Phesal: “We are in need of more affordable housing so that everyone can afford a home. Our architects and [and other professional bodies] are responsible for a better and sustainable KL.”

The competition will be open in two weeks’ time and details posted on PAM’s website.

This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, on December 12, 2014.