URBANEWS
PUTRAJAYA: A TRIBUTE TO A VISION REALISED
Commemorating 30 Years of Malaysia’s Administrative Capital
The newly launched commemorative publication, Putrajaya: A Tribute, chronicles this remarkable journey from its origins to the present day. Written by our Executive Chairman, Ar. Mohamed Hafiz Hashim, the book reflects an insider perspective on the city’s evolution, its planning process and the vision that brought it to life.
This year, 2025, marks a historic milestone — the 30th anniversary of Putrajaya. Since its launch in 1995 as Malaysia’s Government Administrative Centre by Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, the city has transformed into one of the nation’s most significant achievements in architecture, planning and nation-building.
We are honored that the book was personally reviewed and approved by Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, whose affirmation further underscores the significance of this publication as an authoritative record on Putrajaya.
PENANG FREE SCHOOL
A Heritage Perspective and Vision
Penang Free School: Bicentenary 1816–2016 – A Heritage Perspective and Vision is a seminal publication that documents, for the first time, the rich architectural legacy and evolving spirit of one of Malaysia’s oldest educational institutions. More than a historical record, the book is both a tribute and a forward-looking discourse on heritage, education, and the built environment.
The idea for this publication was conceived in early 2012 during a dilapidation study of the Penang Museum building—formerly the Penang Free School (1906–1927). The process of uncovering archival records and preparing measured drawings revealed the elegance and discipline of British-Georgian Palladian architecture, sparking deeper interest in the school’s architectural lineage. Coinciding with the launch of the Penang Free School Bicentenary celebrations, this discovery presented a timely
opportunity for a comprehensive study of the school’s physical development since its founding in 1816.
