More architects needed in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: There is a shortage of architects in Malaysia due to the low passing rate in the final test which would enable them to become professional architects, which carries the title of Ar.
The final test, which is also known as Part 3, is taken after the student completes a masters course in architecture.
To become a professional architect, students must undergo Part 3, where they need to practise architecture for two years and compile a portfolio of their work and fulfil all the project requirements set by Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia (LAM).
They will then have to go for interviews and pass the final exam set by Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM).
At the 2014 PAM-Tan Sri Ar Chan Sau Lai Architecture Award prize-giving ceremony today, Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Ahmad Phesal Talib said that the current ratio of architects in Malaysia is one to 17,257 people.
Phesal added that the award was organised to encourage more young people to pursue the architectural field.
The winner for this year's competition is Fairuz Abdul Aziz from the University of East London, England, with his design entitled "The Waiting Space" where garden courtyards and theatres are introduced in waiting areas for patients in hospitals.
PAM President Ar. Chan Seong Aun said this is the third year this special award was organised, where its primary aim is to be an inspirational platform that recognises outstanding achievements in design by Malaysian undergraduates.