CIPA 2003 XIX th International Symposium, 30 September - 04 October, 2003, Antalya, Turkey 
DTC can cater for all functions required to be held in the 
building such as convocation ceremony, musical and stage 
performances, conferences and seminars, as well as 
examinations hall. The design input from all consultants 
involved ensured that the new standard established for the hall 
could be satisfied. This included the reconstruction of a bigger 
stage area with additional features such as extended and 
movable stage, new durable timber flooring system, timber 
windows with double glazing system, new design for toilets 
facilities, relocating the audio-visual room, and better facilities 
added to the hall such as the ramp, new changing areas, new 
electrical and mechanical system, built-in-fitments and furniture 
(see figure 14). 
Figure 14: View of the new stage 
For the foyer area, the main features were retained with minor 
intervention of the areas. Improving and repairing works were 
done including replacing damaged timber framed and broken 
glass windows and doors, new M&E system with fire protection 
facilities (sprinklers), repairing the concrete wall finishes and 
adding new features for exhibition proposes. At the exterior 
part of the building, upgrading the facilities for disabled and 
pavements layouts and a new landscaping was designed to 
complement the building (See Figure 15). 
Figure 15: Additional accessible ramp for the disable. 
3. ISSUE AND PROBLEMS 
Conservation project is still a new phenomenon in the local 
architectural scene. This project was successfully done as it 
achieved the client’s aim to hold the important ceremony of the 
2002 convocation ceremony on time. The approach on the 
building reconstruction considerations objective was different 
from normal construction since it involved existing/old 
building. The project also had a very tight time constraint. 
Some equipments and materials were unable to be delivered on 
time. Certain elements had to be replaced with products or 
materials that were available at the time required to replace the 
actual specifications. 
Figure 16: Assessment of ramp design during construction. 
With close monitoring and constant guidance from all the 
project consultants, the project contractors and workers 
developed a very good understanding of the work involved and 
improved the construction methods and procedures (See Figure 
16). The project was also required efficient site management 
and close supervision during the entire work. The success of the 
project was largely attributed to close supervision and high 
spirit of teamwork among the consultants, contractors, 
University of Malaya top management and the internal 
development and maintenance department (see figure 17 & 
figure 18). 
Figure 17: Consultants’ site visit