On Monday, June 9, 2025, the Architecture Study Program of Universitas Internasional Batam (UIB) held an International Online Guest Lecture titled “Vernacular and Maritime Cultures of the Archipelago.” The event was conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams and ran from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM (WIB). It was part of a program designed to expand students’ knowledge and understanding of architectural contexts in Southeast Asia, particularly those related to vernacular and maritime cultures in the archipelagic region.
The lecture featured three international guest speakers from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM):
- Dr. Aiman Mohd Rashid
- Gs. Dr. Muhammad Solehin Fitri Rosley
- LAr. Gs. Dr. Muhammad Farid Azizul
The speakers delivered insightful presentations on how vernacular traditions and maritime culture have shaped the identity and characteristics of architecture in Southeast Asia’s island regions. The discussions also explored how local design principles, influenced by geographical conditions, tropical climate, and coastal lifestyles, can serve as a foundation for sustainable contemporary architectural practices.
The event was moderated by two lecturers from UIB:
- Amanda Rosetia, S.Ars., MLA, lecturer of Vernacular Architecture, who moderated the first session with Dr. Aiman Mohd Rashid and the second session with Gs. Dr. Muhammad Solehin Fitri Rosley.
- Gladies Imanda Utami Rangkuty, S.T., M.Arch., Maritime Architecture lecturer, moderated the first session with LAr. Gs. Dr. Muhammad Farid Azizul and the second session with Dr. Aiman Mohd Rashid.
The goal of this activity was to cultivate cross-cultural understanding among students regarding the importance of architecture based on local wisdom. The session emphasized how community-based approaches, the use of local materials, and passive building systems contribute significantly to sustainable development in coastal areas.
The lecture was attended by students enrolled in Vernacular Architecture and Maritime Architecture courses. They actively participated through Q&A sessions and engaging discussions with the speakers. Their enthusiasm was reflected in their responses and the relevant critical questions they raised.
This event not only enriched the students’ theoretical insights but also encouraged them to develop architectural designs that are contextual, sustainable, and culturally grounded. It also formed part of the Architecture Study Program’s curriculum internationalization efforts and helped strengthen academic collaboration between institutions in Indonesia and Malaysia.
The event concluded successfully with a group photo of all participants, speakers, and moderators.
International Relation Office
Universitas Internasional Batam
