SERDANG, 13 July 2026 – Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) today marked a significant milestone in its commitment to preserving the nation's cultural heritage with the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Construction of the Selangor Long-Roof House, held at the Malay Heritage Museum, Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication (FBMK), UPM.

The ceremony was attended by 60 students from the Foundation in Agricultural Science Programme (ASPer), reflecting UPM's continuous efforts to provide students with meaningful learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., the event underscores the University's dedication to safeguarding and conserving traditional Malay architecture and cultural heritage. The construction of the Selangor Long-Roof House is expected to serve as an important educational and cultural landmark, offering future generations the opportunity to appreciate the richness and uniqueness of Malay architectural traditions.

Figure 1: Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Construction of the Selangor Long-Roof House

The initiative reflects UPM's commitment to integrating heritage appreciation with holistic student development while reinforcing the University's role in promoting the preservation and sustainability of Malaysia's cultural legacy.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of UPM Vice-Chancellor, YBhg. Dato’ Prof. Ir. Dr. Ahmad Farhan Mohd. Sadullah, FASc; Chairman of the UPM Board of Directors, YBhg. Dato’ Sri Jailani Johari; Chief Executive Officer of Permodalan Negeri Selangor Berhad, YM Raja Ahmad Shahrir Iskandar Raja Salim; and Selangor State Executive Councillor for Housing and Culture, YB Datuk Borhan Aman Shah.

Throughout the programme, students were introduced to various aspects of traditional Malay architecture, including the philosophy of traditional house construction, cultural values, and customs that have been practised by the Malay community for generations. One of the programme's key highlights was an informative session on the adat mendirikan tiang seri (main pillar-raising ceremony), a traditional custom that holds profound symbolic and cultural significance in the construction of a traditional Malay house.

Figure 2: Main Pillar-Raising Ceremony for the Selangor Long-Roof House

In addition to commemorating the commencement of the project, the programme aimed to enhance public awareness of the importance of preserving the nation's cultural heritage. For the participating foundation students, the event provided valuable exposure to the historical, architectural, and cultural significance of traditional Malay houses, fostering a deeper appreciation of Malaysia's rich heritage and identity.

Figure 3: ASPer Students Listening to a Briefing on Traditional Malay Architecture 

The programme is expected to cultivate greater awareness and a sense of responsibility among the younger generation to appreciate, preserve, and uphold the rich heritage of Malay culture for future generations.

Prepared by: Amizatul Najeha binti Lukmanulhakim
                    Pegawai Perkhidmatan Pendidikan, ASPutra

Date of Input: 07/08/2026 | Updated: 07/08/2026 | emma