Hikmah Exchange
Hikmah Exchange is a mixed-use commercial development comprising three key components: Office Towers, Convention Centre, and Commercial Spaces. The scheme includes two office towers, each 22 storeys high, with a total gross floor area of 43,600 m². Thirteen floors are dedicated to office use, whilst the remaining nine provide parking for approximately 1,200 vehicles.
The design of the Office Towers takes inspiration from Masjid Bahagian, a defining symbol of Malay–Islamic identity in Kuching. Its façade and structure reflect key aspects of Islamic architecture, while two iconic floral-inspired features embody the concept of ‘Cokmar’, symbolising Malay leadership and heritage. The towers also reference the mosque’s minarets, echoing their role as spiritual beacons across the city.
Designed with sustainability at its core, the development includes modern office towers, commercial spaces, and an open boulevard, integrating green infrastructure for a future-ready transformation. Inspired by high-rise financial hubs, the towers feature vertical fins for shading, a Low-E glass façade to minimise heat gain, and a raised floor system for efficiency. As a catalyst for Kuching’s urban and economic growth, Hikmah Exchange fosters business opportunities whilst promoting an eco-conscious built environment, reinforcing its role as a new commercial landmark.
The Convention Centre’s roofscape and the Sky Garden dome are inspired by the Betel Leaf (Daun Sirih), a symbol of unity, hospitality, and communal harmony in Malay culture. Deeply rooted in Sarawak’s traditions, the Betel Leaf reflects shared dining, social gatherings, and ceremonial rituals, reinforcing the cultural significance of the development’s key public spaces.
The Concourse Area establishes a visual axis that aligns the development with the iconic Masjid Bahagian, strengthening its connection to local cultural landmarks. It links the office towers with the convention centre and offers a range of facilities, including cafés, restaurants, kiosks, and exhibition spaces.
Design Philosophy: The organic elements of the design symbolise Malay cultural heritage and establish a harmonious relationship with the wider urban context, grounding Hikmah Exchange in its cultural roots.
Symbolism & Integration: The use of organic design elements reflects Malay-Sarawakian traditions, merging nature-inspired forms with the urban environment to define Hikmah Exchange’s architectural identity as a landmark development.
Text by the architect
PROJECT GALLERY
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Architect : PU Architects Sdn Bhd
Client : Permodalan Satok Bhd
Area : 43,600 m²
Project Location : Kuching | Sarawak
Year : 2024 -
C&S Engineer : Vesar Consultant Sdn Bhd
M&E Engineer : Perunding CHL Sdn Bhd
Contractor : Urban Empire Builders Sdn Bhd
Photography : Base Two Studio -
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