KOTA KINABALU : The University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF), Sabah’s only state-owned university, will commence its first semester of 2026 with the introduction of a new strategic academic offering: the state’s first Bachelor’s degree programme in Architecture.
Vice-Chancellor of UCSF, Datuk Dr Rafiq Idris, announced that the programme will begin in February 2026, marking a significant milestone in Sabah’s higher education landscape. He noted that Sabah currently does not have any tertiary institution offering Part I or a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture.
“This programme is intended to complement the higher education needs of the state. We hope it will benefit the Construction sector, Sabah, and the nation as a whole,” he said.
The Head of the Architecture Programme at UCSF, Filzah Jamjam, explained that the programme will be offered under the Faculty of Arts and Creative Media.
“Our architecture degree programme integrates creative arts with sustainable design principles, rooted in local wisdom and eco-centric thinking. It aims to produce architects who create spaces that harmonise with nature and culture,” she said.
She added that the curriculum is designed to bridge theory and practice, with students engaging in real-world projects and assignments that simulate professional practice.
“This approach exposes students to real problem-solving scenarios, nurturing critical thinking, creativity and adaptability, and ensuring that graduates are well prepared to address the complex challenges of the architectural profession,” she added.
Chairman of the Malaysian Institute of Architects (Persatuan Arkitek Malaysia, PAM) Sabah Chapter, Ar. Daniel Koh Chung Hou, described the establishment of the architecture programme in Kota Kinabalu as a strategic investment in Sabah’s future.
“It widens access to architectural education for local students, reduces the need for migration, and helps retain home-grown talent within the state. More importantly, it grounds architectural training in Sabah’s unique climate, culture and communities,” he said.
He added that through locally rooted education and community-based learning, Sabahans would be empowered to shape their own built environment, strengthen the professional ecosystem, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable and inclusive development in Kota Kinabalu and across Sabah.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chairman of the PAM Sabah Chapter, Ar. Sharon Magdalene Amin, emphasised that architecture is a disciplined profession that requires rigorous training and intellectual development.
“While students are often identified through their artistic talent and creativity, they must also undergo intensive training where ideas, thoughts and beliefs are challenged, and where they learn to defend their professional stand,” she said.
She noted that the establishment of an architecture school in Sabah would help produce more local architects who can contribute to national development while preserving the state’s cultural and historical heritage.
“I would like to congratulate UCSF on the launch of its new Bachelor of Science in Architecture and wish the institution every success,” she added.
UCSF Registrar Norashiqin Ahmad said the new programme would provide Sabahans with an opportunity to showcase their architectural talents in their home state.
“It is time for our students, especially Sabahans, to develop and express their architectural potential on their own soil. We look forward to welcoming these talents to UCSF,” she said.
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