The renowned IFI LEADS Speaker Series is coming to Malaysia!

Global design collective IFI to bring its internationally celebrated speaker series, IFI LEADS, to Asia for the very first time — marking this as a significant feat for Malaysia’s design scene

The Luminary Experts, Architects & Designers Speaker (LEADS) series, an annual initiative by IFI, is made of a dynamic group of speaking sessions led by prominent figures in the global design world. Sharing their expert insights and perspectives, multiple speakers are set to take over a 50-minute discussion that welcomes knowledge exchange on global challenges. IFI LEADS’ first stop in Asia will be Kuala Lumpur, this Friday November 8, 2024.

IFI LEADS sessions have been designed to promote forward-thinking and constructive conversations about the significance of design in contemporary society, and this year’s selected speakers represent as leaders and luminaries in their fields gearing up to showcase a range of thought-provoking ideas. Guest of Honour, Yang Berhormat Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian, the Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government of Sarawak, Malaysia, will also be giving a keynote address to send the speaking session off to a great start.

The presences to expect at IFI LEADS ASIA 2024

Shashi Caan, CEO of the International Federation of Interior Architects / Designers (IFI), will be coming in all the way from New York to commemorate this special occasion. She is set to act as this year’s session moderator, bringing her 30 years of experience as a practitioner, design educator and author to the discussion. Shashi has previously worked with notable firms like Gensler and SOM, and has also held the position of President at IFI for two terms, a rare honour that can be said by only three others in the organization’s long history.

At IFI LEADS 2024, Malaysian speakers John Jong (Thinkscape Design Group), Tennyson Chia (Sachi), Ramesh Seshan (Seshan Design), Ar Daniel Koh (Arkitek Daniel Koh) and Wong Koon Nam (Hap Seng Land) will share the stage to present their unique philosophies on ‘Design: Wellness Reimagined’. The discussion will explore various design viewpoints, from sustainable practices to incorporating AI in wellness design.

John Jong – Founder of Thinkscape, backed by over 25 years of expertise in corporate commercial design. With a visionary touch, his work reshapes wellness through powerful, purpose-driven design experiences that inspire and elevate

Tennyson Chia – Principal at SACHI, celebrated for his fresh perspective, championing a shift toward more mindful, human-centered design philosophies

Ramesh Seshan – Founder of seshan design, whose work reflects a dedication to wellbeing, with wellness at the core of his design integrity

Ar Daniel Koh – Founder of Arkitek Daniel Koh, an influential thinker who deems wellness as essential to shaping resilient and enriching spaces

Wong Koon Nam – Senior Project Manager at Hap Seng Land, with vast experience in development, who emphasises wellness as a cornerstone of lasting value and impact in design

Of key importance is Yang Berhormat Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian, the Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government of Sarawak, Malaysia, whose keynote address at IFI LEADS ASIA 2024 will revolve around Sarawak’s forward-thinking green initiatives and his expertise in healthcare, particularly in how design impacts both physical and mental wellbeing. On top of his sterling tenure as a cardiologist, Yang Berhormat Dr Sim Kui Hian also holds a watching brief role overseeing several Malaysian federal government departments in the territory, including the Sarawak Health Department.

IFI LEADS ASIA through ACGMEDIA

Organised by Malaysian media house ACGMEDIA, IFI LEADS ASIA 2024 secures Menara Hap Seng 3’s reputable Mercedes-Benz Showroom as the event venue. This momentous event will solidify Asia’s influence in the design world and is a meritable milestone for the nation, putting Malaysia on the map for its global design influence.

Alvin Chang, CEO of ACGMEDIA, comments, “We share the same objectives and values with IFI in a collaborative effort to enrich and empower the design scene. Intellectual dialogues addressing pressing issues that are new, controversial or challenging can bring the very best out for the industry.”

IFI LEADS ASIA 2024 is brought to you by Hap Seng Star Mercedes-Benz. Situated at an ultra-prime Kuala Lumpur address, the world-class Menara Hap Seng 3 completes a plaza trilogy of business landmarks and is designed by the global paramount SOM with a LEED Gold certification.

IFI LEADS ASIA 2024 is organised by