EXPLORATORIUM: AN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PROJECT TO SAFEGUARD SARAWAK RAINFOREST AS THE NATIONAL NATURAL HERITAGE

Abstract

This research explores the potential of architectural design solution to safeguard Sarawak Rainforest as the National Natural Heritage. Forest plays a significant role in maintaining the balance cycle of the global ecosystem. The rainforest in Malaysia has a rich biodiversity, but it is now in danger of disappearing due to excessive deforestation. The proposed architectural solution comes in the form of an “Exploratorium,” an architectural project integrated with a rainforest research centre. This proposed architectural solution will enable the general public to learn and understand the significance of preserving the rainforest by encouraging them to experience the tropical rainforest ecosystem. The proposed Exploratorium will have facilities, such as interactive galleries, series of forest discovery spaces, treehouses, travel pods, and watchtowers. Indeed, designing the Exploratorium reconnects the division between
humans and nature and responds to the call of SDG16, which is to protect, restore, and promote sustainableuse of terrestrial ecosystems.