Serian Government Office Complex
State Government Office Complex – Serian Division, Sarawak
This project marks the administrative emergence of Sarawak’s 12th division; consolidating key government departments within a single integrated administrative centre. Conceived as both civic infrastructure and cultural landmark, the project brings together multiple state agencies within architectural complex designed to foster efficiency, accessibility, and collaboration.
The design draws inspiration from the traditional Bidayuh Longhouse and Baruk, two architectural forms deeply embedded in the cultural identity of the region. Historically, the Baruk functioned as the ceremonial and social heart of the Bidayuh community — a place for gathering, dialogue, and collective decision-making.
Reinterpreted in a contemporary civic context, it is the symbolic and functional focal point for the campus, with a public gallery on the ground floor with a 500-seat multipurpose hall above.
Behind this central element, the complex unfolds as a series of curved office blocks arranged in a clustered formation reminiscent of the spatial rhythm of a traditional Longhouse ranging from 2-6 storeys to accommodate the various administrative departments.
These blocks are connected by open verandah corridors that frame a central landscaped courtyard; providing circulation with visual connectivity across the complex. The curved geometry softens the institutional scale of the development; fostering a human-centric environment for both staff and visitors.
The central landscaped courtyard is the social and environmental heart of the complex; a shared civic space integrating ethnic motifs with native planting to reflect Sarawak’s cultural diversity while providing shade, ventilation, and visual relief. A cafeteria and communal spaces at the rear of the complex; offering informal areas for interaction and respite within the workplace environment.
By merging traditional Bidayuh architectural language with contemporary administrative infrastructure, the Serian Government Office Complex establishes a new civic landmark for the division. The project embodies a dialogue between heritage and modern governance, positioning architecture as both cultural expression and functional framework for the growing administrative centre of Serian.
Text by the architect
PROJECT GALLERY
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Architect : Arkiskape Sdn Bhd
Client : Sarawak State Government
Area : 21,000 m²
Project Location : Serian | Sarawak
Year : 2021 -
C&S Engineer : Jurutera CMP (S’wak) Sdn Bhd
M&E Engineer : Jurutera M&E Konsult ( Sarawak ) Sdn Bhd
Quantity Surveyor : Kumpulan Ukor Bahan Sarawak
Contractor : Sarawak Incorporated Sdn Bhd
Photography : Sean Wee | Ricco Soh -
Floor | Floor Finishes
• Tile : MML I Grade Empire
Wall | Wall Finishes
• Brick : Red Brick I Mapoh
• Drywall : Gypsium Partition I Saint Gobian
Roofing Systems : Shingles roofing I Iko
Paint Systems : External & Internal painting I Nippon
Waterproofing | Coating Systems : Waterproofing system I Sika
Ceiling | Ceiling Systems : Gyproc Gypsium Board I Saint Gobian
Sanitary Fittings | Systems : Sanitary Fitting I Johnson suit
Kitchen Fittings | Systems : Doe Fitting I Kaisu
Furniture : Office furniture I Satok Furniture
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