Malaysian Han Studies

Institution, University | Hang Tuah Jaya, Melaka | Curated by: Studio505, Australia

BlueScope_SteelPedia_Colorbond_University_Architecture_Design_HanStudies

Bridging Cultures and Education in Melaka

Nestled admist the historical city of Melaka, the Malaysian Academy of Han Studies (MAHS) is a non-profit, private educational institution that brings Chinese philosophy education closer to the local community. Being the first of its kind outside China, MAHS is set to be a new landmark of architectural brilliance and cultural homage, fostering a sense of unity, positive and harmonious culture.

Built to run as a self-sustaining community, MAHS comprises nine ‘drums’ hosting auditoriums, study areas, offices, a hostel, and common facilities. Teachers, staff, parents and children can opt to reside together, learn Chinese philosophies and teach within this fully charitable academy. Completed in 2016, the architectural structure of MAHS, echoing the academy’s vision of nurturing a close-knit community experience, is a masterpiece that intertwines tradition and modernity.

Architectural Harmony in Metallic Sheen

The centre of attention for this grand and ambitious building is no doubt the one-of-a-kind design of the roof, a rich interpretation of the Tulou adorned with over 25,000 radial pieces of steel profile, shimmering with a metallic sheen. The Tulou clusters of Southern China, hailed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, are architectural symbols of tradition, strength, harmony, and community.

Designed by the Australian-based Studio 505, the building form artfully borrows from this heritage to craft a space that cherishes its roots while promoting circulation of people, energy and ideas. Open spaces, minimal partitions, and louvred walls allow an abundance of natural light flow and cross-ventilation, cultivating a conducive space to learning and communal living.

Sustainable Metal Roofing Solutions

Incorporating Lysaght’s technology into the design was essential for maximising energy efficiency. NS BlueScope Lysaght Malaysia, a company with a long-standing reputation of expertise in roofing vernacular in the architecture community, provided the perfect roofing solution. The LYSAGHT® 360 SEAM® was chosen for its curving and tapering capabilities, which connected the unique drum-shaped roof design that blends with a Malaysian traditional roof vernacular.

The roofing system, combining LYSAGHT® 360 SEAM® and LYSAGHT® SPANDEK® OPTIMA™ , offers flexibility and durability to address architectural constraints. The trapezoidal profile of the roof imparts a modern, bold appearance that complements the drum-shaped architecture to achieve a functional, elegant fusion interpretation.

The Visual Masterpiece with COLORBOND® XPD PEARLESCENT Steel

The final touch comes with COLORBOND® XPD PEARLESCENT Steel in Copper Penny, a weatherproof and dirt-resistant steel that ensures long-term colour and gloss retention. Its metallic finish not only keeps the colours vibrant and cleaner for longer, but also lends depth and impact. The steel roofing stands as a visual masterpiece, elevating the MAHS to an iconic institution in Melaka, both in architectural grandeur and cultural significance.