It was an exciting last day for knowledge-sharing as ARCHIDEX hosted some thought-provoking conversations at the ARCHIDEX Focus Forum and REAL Talk @ AREC that addressed pressing industry challenges and inspired action across the built environment.

At AREC, the spotlight turned to GreenRE, a homegrown green building rating tool driving sustainability in Malaysia. Ts. Intan Siti Zulaikha Mastor, Senior Assessor at GreenRE Sdn Bhd, unpacked the real-world application of green certification for existing buildings. “You can’t manage what you don’t measure. Our certification gives building owners a framework to benchmark and improve their efficiency,” she explained.

The GreenRE approach focuses on actionable improvements, from upgrading lighting and HVAC systems to implementing proper waste and indoor air quality management. These enhancements not only reduce carbon impact but also improve operational performance, tenant comfort, and ESG reporting compliance.

Meanwhile, the ARCHIDEX Focus Forum explored an equally crucial topic: Structures That Endure, held in collaboration with ICOMOS Malaysia (International Council on Monuments and Sites). The session championed Malaysia’s architectural heritage, raising awareness about the importance of preserving historic structures.

“We see many beautiful heritage buildings that are neglected, both public and private,” shared Ar (Dr.) Mohd Zulhemlee An, the Deputy President of ICOMOS Malaysia, who was also one of the panellists. “Public engagement is key to understanding their historical and cultural value. If we don’t act now, we risk losing part of our identity.”

Zulhemlee noted that platforms like ARCHIDEX are vital because they bring everyone together from contractors to consultants and their participation is needed to keep these legacies alive.

In just one day, these sessions demonstrated the power of knowledge-sharing in aligning industry players toward a greener, more resilient, and culturally rooted future. Through platforms like AREC and the Focus Forum, ARCHIDEX is shaping a more informed and harmonised real estate and construction ecosystem for Malaysia.