Today, UIA President Regina Gonthier delivered an inspiring speech at the opening ceremony of the UIA Forum and Assembly 2024, held in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur. Her address marked the beginning of three days of critical discussions under the forum’s theme, “DiverseCity”, which explores the role of cultural diversity in shaping resilient and inclusive urban futures.
President Gonthier’s speech underscored the integrity of people and culture at the centre of urban and architectural development. And today, delivery will never be so vital: finding a way to deal with the challenges of rapid urbanisation in our present-day and future context; responding to environmental crises in terms of adaptation and recovery, and pursuing social equality – humane design thinking. As two thirds of humanity is expected to live in cities by the year 2050, those themes will address how urban environments can answer global challenges while remaining reflections of the local cultural identities present in their territories.
The DiverseCity theme resonates deeply with Kuala Lumpur, a city known for its cultural intersections. President Gonthier praised the city as a fitting backdrop for this global dialogue, fostering conversations on topics such as public spaces for cultural interaction, sustainable urban practices, and policy frameworks for urban diversity. She stressed that architects, as pivotal players in shaping the urban landscape, must embrace their responsibility to create equitable and nature-aligned spaces.
Concluding her speech, President Gonthier urged attendees to collaborate and make bold actions to ensure architecture supports inclusive and thriving communities for future generations. Her words set the tone for what promises to be a transformative event for architects, urban planners, and global leaders.
The Kuala Lumpur Forum, hosted by the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM), exemplifies the spirit of unity and innovation needed to confront today’s urban challenges. This forum invites all participants to reimagine the possibilities for urban living in a culturally sensitive and sustainable future.
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