Unismuh Architecture Lecturer Secures Best Presenter Award at I-SHAPE 2025 International Conference

The intersection of cultural heritage and modern spatial design recently took center stage in Banda Aceh as an academic from Universitas Muhammadiyah (Unismuh) Makassar achieved a prestigious milestone on the international stage. Ar. Hj. Citra Amalia Amal, S.T., M.T., IAI, a lecturer from the Architecture Study Program, was officially recognized as the Best Presenter at the I-SHAPE 2025 (International Conference on Sustainable and Harmonious Architecture, Planning & Environment) held from October 28 to 29, 2025.

A Global Forum for Future Resilience

The I-SHAPE 2025 conference was no small gathering. Organized by the Department of Architecture and Regional Planning at Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), the event served as a cornerstone of the university’s 64th Anniversary (Milad) celebrations. The atmosphere in Banda Aceh was thick with intellectual exchange, featuring a diverse lineup of keynote speakers and presenters from Germany, Malaysia, Australia, Oman, the United Kingdom, and Indonesia.

The central theme focused on the critical collaboration between architecture, urban planning, and environmental stewardship, all viewed through the lens of local wisdom. The goal was clear: to find sustainable solutions for the spatial resilience challenges that will define our future cities and communities.

Bridging Bugis-Makassar Wisdom with Modern Education

Citra Amalia’s winning presentation, titled “Spatial Design and Character Formation in a Boarding School: Integrating Bugis-Makassar Local Wisdom for a Safer and Culturally Rooted Educational Environment,” offered a profound look at how architecture influences the human psyche. Her research focused specifically on Muhammadiyah boarding schools in Makassar, examining how the physical environment acts as a silent educator.

By integrating the traditional values of the Bugis-Makassar culture with Islamic principles, the research explores how educational spaces can be designed to do more than just provide shelter. Instead, these spaces are crafted to actively participate in the character-building process of the students.

The Methodology: Space as a Pedagogical Tool

To reach these conclusions, Citra utilized a robust research framework. Her study employed place-centered mapping, rigorous field observations, and deep-dive interviews to understand the lived experience of the students. The findings revealed that the physical layout of a boarding school is a powerful medium for character education.

Key elements such as gender-based zoning, the configuration of daily activity patterns, and the overall environmental layout were shown to have a direct impact on the development of student discipline, responsibility, and spirituality. In essence, the architecture itself helps curate a safer and more culturally grounded atmosphere for learning.

Recognition and Institutional Pride

The Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Unismuh Makassar, Ir. Muhammad Syafaat S. Kuba, S.T., M.T., expressed his immense pride regarding the achievement. He noted that this accolade is a testament to the high caliber of research being produced by the Unismuh faculty, proving they can hold their own against the best in the world.

“This achievement proves that Unismuh Makassar's Architecture lecturers are capable of competing at the international level and delivering research that is deeply rooted in cultural values and character education,” he stated. He further emphasized that this award should serve as a spark of inspiration for other faculty members and students to engage with global scientific forums.

Building a Unique Academic Identity

Beyond the individual trophy, Unismuh’s participation in I-SHAPE 2025 signifies a broader commitment to academic growth. The Architecture Study Program is actively working to expand its international network and contribute to the development of architecture that isn't just functional, but also spiritually and culturally contextual to the Indonesian people. This focus on local spirituality and wisdom is rapidly becoming the hallmark of Unismuh Makassar’s academic identity, ensuring that their future architects are as much guardians of culture as they are master builders.