THEME: Synergize Nature and Energize Sustainability
SIZE: 1,234 sqm
CLIENT: Government of Malaysia; Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation; Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corp.
DESIGN: Hijjas Architects and Planners, Design Integrated Architectural Engineering Consultant
FABRICATION: Pico Malaysia, RAQ Contracting LLP
ADDITIONAL FIRMS: WEB Structures Sdn Bhd, LEC M&E Consultant Sdn Bhd, Atelier Ten, Inchscape Sdn Bhd, Flashlight Creative Sdn Bhd, KPK Quantity Surveyors Sdn Bhd, CD Communications Group Sdn Bhd
PHOTOS: Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre, LEC, WEB, PICO, CDA
The theme of the Malaysia Pavilion is “Synergize Nature and Energize Sustainability,” and its architectural design mimics the rainforest canopy, depicting the symbiotic relationship between the natural environment and human settlement. That concept is expressed by groves of columns supporting the “crown canopies,” meandering river walkways, and firefly poles — all things that denote a healthy mangrove ecosystem. Two “building blocks” are elevated to create a pair of separate exhibition spaces floating above the ground, and the sunken garden allows sunlight and natural ventilation into the lowest level of the pavilion.
Insight, visitors are introduced to the pavilion’s #MyButterflyEffect campaign, which was initiated to support the country’s expo theme and to promote sustainable lifestyles, especially among young people. This campaign exhibits our aspiration of making a big impact even though Malaysia is a small country. To help tell that story, the pavilion incorporates 3-D projection, touchscreen panels, and scalable exhibits, with content ranging from basic to highly detailed.
In the Energizing Today area, a tree of life illustrates the country’s successes in sustainable development. Here, guests are immersed in the experiential ecosystem via 3-D projection mapping that illustrates the beauty of the country’s rich flora and fauna. An accompanying voice over tells the story of Malaysia’s long-enduring conservation efforts and its continuous commitment to being a responsible leader of the international community when it comes to addressing global environmental crises.
The next step in attendees’ journey is Energizing Tomorrow, which comprises five exhibit areas emphasizing science, technology, and innovation as core drivers of the country’s development. Meanwhile, the Re-Energizing the Future zone showcases Malaysia’s national oil and gas company’s Net Zero Carbon Emissions Goal, which Petronas expects to achieve by 2050. Nearby, an interactive installation represents a Smart City, a blueprint of urban living driven by cutting-edge technologies of the 21st century, such as 5G, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence. Finally, in the Energizing Harmony space, displays explore the diverse cultures, traditions, and ethnicities found in Malaysia, and how its people live in harmony while contributing to the nation’s progress, unity, and stability.
Other activities at the Malaysia Pavilion include physical displays, as well as audiovisual and interactive applications underscoring the theme of sustainability. Tourism and cultural activities are daily features at the Malaysia Pavilion Amphitheatre, with almost 1,000 cultural performances in total. The pavilion also hosts daily cultural shows at the Earth Stage. Meanwhile, a café serves up authentic Malaysian delicacies, and a retail kiosk offers eco-friendly items that promote the country’s national heritage.
