Kota Kinabalu: LS Chan Architect emerged winner of the prestigious Revitalising Bornion Centre Architectural Competition 2025 with their innovative design, “Bornion LouTi.
The winning proposal was announced at the Sabah State Library, Tanjung Aru, and earned the firm RM10,000 and a certificate.
The competition, which attracted submissions from architects across Sabah, sought creative and sustainable ideas to reimagine the Bornion Centre precinct.
The concept behind “Bornion LouTi” was hailed for its thoughtful design, particularly the integration of a stairway — referred to as a “LouTi” — linking the Foh Sang car park to the first floor of the Bornion Centre.
This connection is expected to breathe new life into the upper level of the building, enhancing accessibility and encouraging increased foot traffic to the shops on that floor.
Ar. Daniel Koh, the competition committee chairman, praised the concept for improving the vibrancy of the space.
“This new link will create a dynamic flow of people and activity between the ground and upper floors, boosting the commercial potential of the area,” he said.
The second-place prize of RM5,000 and a certificate was awarded to Arkitek OMA Sdn Bhd for their proposal, “F-B Park”. Arkitek TM claimed third place with their submission, “Bornion Centre Revitalisation”, winning RM3,000 and a certificate.
The competition received a total of 19 submissions, each reflecting a strong focus on urban regeneration, community engagement, and sustainable design practices.
Daniel, also the chairman of the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) Sabah Chapter, emphasised that the competition aimed to rejuvenate the Bornion Centre area into a lively urban destination that enhances public life, connectivity, and cultural identity.
A distinguished panel of seven jurors evaluated the designs over the course of a full day, with all decisions made through confidential scoring.
Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, who generously funded the competition’s prize money, was present at the ceremony to witness the awards being presented.
Five additional entries received honourable mentions and RM1,000 each for their creative submissions. These were:
- M Kiandee Architect Sdn Bhd — The Bornion Urban Spine & Commons
- Arkitek XY Sdn Bhd — The Interwoven Knot: Unity in Motion
- Chan & Shahriman Arkitek Sdn Bhd — The Luyang MingTang: The Heart of Luyang
- Arkitek TYA Sdn Bhd — Revitalising Bornion Centre
- PC Chartered Architect — One Heart, One Plaza
All of the competition entries, including the top three winners, are currently displayed at the Sabah State Library, Tanjung Aru, until March 20.
