Dato’ (Dr) Ar. Haji Hajeedar Abdul Majid leaves his mark on the official event poster, symbolizing his first-ever lecture at City University Malaysia—a moment that bridges generations and inspires the future of Malaysian architecture.

Cyberjaya, 16 April 2025 — City University Malaysia proudly welcomed Dato’ (Dr) Ar. Haji Hajeedar Abdul Majid, one of the nation’s most respected and influential architectural figures, as the featured speaker for its Eminent Speaker Series. This prestigious event marks a historic first for City University, hosting the iconic architect whose contributions have helped define Malaysia’s built heritage and national identity.

Held at the City University’s Cyberjaya campus, the session themed “Designing a Nation for the Future: Reflections on Pesta Pembangunan 1974 and Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through Architecture” was both timely and powerful—bridging historical context with contemporary aspirations.

Dato’ (Dr) Ar. Haji Hajeedar Abdul Majid (center) joins representatives from six collaborating universities and City University leadership in commemorating the first-ever joint Eminent Speaker Series event—celebrating unity, knowledge, and a shared vision for a sustainable architectural future

In his address, Prof. Dato’ Dr. Roselan Baki, representative of the Vice Chancellor of City University Malaysia, Prof. Dr. Rosnizah Shaari underscored the event’s significance, stating:

“It is a true honour to host a figure whose life’s work has shaped our nation’s physical and cultural landscape. City University is proud to be a platform for this historic exchange of knowledge and inspiration.”

Dato’ Hajeedar’s keynote revisited the spirit of Pesta Pembangunan 1974, calling on students to see architecture not merely as design, but as a tool for nation-building, cultural continuity, and sustainable impact. Drawing from his vast portfolio—which includes Masjid IIUM, Carcosa Seri Negara, and numerous conservation projects—he urged young designers to align their work with form, function, and context.

Moderated by Hon. Sr. Dr. Mazlan Mohd Tahir (UKM) and Pn. Sarah Salleh (City University), the interactive Q&A session gave students the opportunity to engage directly with the architectural legend, sparking thoughtful discussions on legacy, innovation, and responsibility.

 Dato’ (Dr) Ar. Haji Hajeedar Abdul Majid shares reflections on architecture, heritage, and nation-building during a thought-provoking dialogue moderated by Hon. Sr. Dr. Mazlan Mohd Tahir (UKM) and Pn. Sarah Binti Mohd Salleh (City University Malaysia).

This event not only affirms City University’s role as a key player in architectural education, but also sets a precedent for meaningful collaboration among institutions—proving that when minds and missions align, the impact is far-reaching.

Over 300 participants—including students, lecturers, and professionals from six universities—gathered to witness Dato’ Hajeedar’s first-ever lecture at City University Malaysia, united by a shared passion for architecture, heritage, and sustainable development.

As students walked out of the hall, the message lingered: architecture is more than buildings—it is the blueprint of a nation’s soul. And on that day, at City University Malaysia, they were reminded of the power they hold to shape it.

For more information about City University Malaysia and its programs, please visit our website, City University Malaysia.