The first glimps of Malaysia’s modern architecture begins at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). With rambling ceilings that resemble white Bedouin tents, the state-of-the-art KLIA boasts the world tallest air traffic control tower at 120 meters, the biggest columnless hanger and the biggest passanger lounge among many other destinctions.

Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa design KLIA as an ‘ Airport in the Forest, Forest in the Airport ‘. Lush rainforest trees in the boundries between the physical strucrures of the building with its natural green surroundings induce passenger comfort and relaxition.

Just 3.5 km away from KLIA is the Sepang F1 Cuircuit which designed by Herman Tilke. This Sepang F1’s white awnings are reminiscent of overturned seashells. This eye-catching design

and functional element deflect sunlight. In terms of design, facilities and technology, Sepang F1 is one of the most outstanding racing cuircuit in the world.

Located right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the steel and glass Petronas Twin Towers soar 451 metres skywards. Cesar Pelli, the American architect, design the world’s tallest twin towers by overlapping two squares - interlocking heaven and earth - to create an eight-pointed star. The design is further refined with half circles between the the star points, creating a geometry that reflects the Islamic spirit of Malaysia.

But even before the Petronas Twin Towers took shape, Malaysia’s skyline was dominated by Kuala Lumpur Tower. Completed in 1996 as a telecummunications antenna, KL Tower doubles

as a major tourist destination. Visitors are often mesmerised by its dome shape arches, covered by a mosaic of mirrors that glitter like diamonds again light. Seven Iranian-inspired brusque patterns form the base of the viewing deck to represent the seven layers of the sky. There is also a revolving restaurant that serves meals and drinks as guests soak in panoramic vistas of Kuala Lumpur.

For its new administrative city, the Malaysian government has spared no expense making Putrajaya a feast for the eyes. Perdana Putra Building, at the center of the Putrajaya, is a six storey granite building with green glass windows and surrounded by artificial mangrove lakes. The natural stone clad building is capped by an onion shaped

main dome, resembling the Zahir mosque in Alor Setar, Kedah. Four smaller domes surround the main dome and its collective form makes up its distinctive look.

The Putra Bridge, which spans 435 metres, and lies opposite the Perdana Putra Building, is inspired by the design of the famous Khaju Bridge in isfahan, Iran. Its three deck bridge provides vehicle, monorail and pedestrian access and its piers are the setting for fine dining restaurants.

The credit for Malaysia’s new skyline of modern architecture goes to the government during Tun Mahathir Mohammad premiership. More than mere buildings, Malaysia’s modern architecture is also a metaphor for the spirit of the country’s aspirations. Malaysia aspires to be a progressive nation that looks to the

future. Yet its architectural heritage is rooted in the past. Evidently, the country’s modern buildings delicately balance between Malaysia’s past, present and future.

Yazid is the owner of informational website about Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia at [http://www.mykltravelguide.mymamall.com]www.mykltravelguide.mymamall.com. He also owned ‘Mini Lifestyle Portal’ at [http://www.mymamall.com]www.mymamall.com