Meet Ahmad Syafiq Mohd Unzir: Proud Malaysian Graduate Architect Advancing Universal Design and Accessibility in Malaysia

In Malaysia's growing movement toward inclusive cities and barrier-free environments, local talent plays a vital role in bridging international best practices with our unique cultural, climatic, and regulatory context. At Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT, we're proud to highlight one of our dedicated team members: Ahmad Syafiq Mohd Unzir, a graduate architect based in Kuala Lumpur who has been making meaningful contributions to accessible design and disability access since joining us full-time in April 2019.

Ahmad Syafiq represents the rising generation of Malaysian professionals committed to universal design — a field gaining momentum as Malaysia works toward full implementation of MS 1184:2014 (Code of Practice for Universal Design and Accessibility in the Built Environment), the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008, and UBBL By-Law 34A. His journey showcases how homegrown expertise can drive real change in creating equitable spaces for all Malaysians, including the estimated hundreds of thousands of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and our ageing population.

Ahmad Syafiq's Contributions to our Projects

Since 2019, Ahmad Syafiq has been actively involved in hands-on architectural design and documentation for diverse projects that prioritize inclusivity:

• Medium-density housing developments — designing affordable, accessible living spaces that meet the needs of multi-generational Malaysian families.
• Child care centres — ensuring safe, welcoming environments for young children, including features that support families with disabilities.
• New prestige residential homes — incorporating universal design elements like step-free entries, wider doorways, and adaptable layouts for future-proof living.
• Upgrades to local government sports pavilions — retrofitting public recreational facilities to promote participation for everyone, regardless of ability.

These projects reflect the practical application of inclusive design in everyday Malaysian settings — from urban housing in Kuala Lumpur to community facilities nationwide.

Building Expertise in Access Audits and Universal Design

Ahmad Syafiq's passion for universal design continues to deepen. He has successfully completed specialized training and proudly holds his PAM certificate in conducting access audits. He has also been sucesful in completing the Graaduate Diploma in Access Consulting from teh Institute of Access Training in Australia. These qualification equips him to perform thorough disability access audits that identify barriers and recommend compliant, cost-effective solutions tailored to Malaysian buildings and public spaces.

His work supports our firm's core mission: delivering accessibility audits, design appraisals, and certification that help developers, architects, local authorities, and building owners achieve high standards of inclusion while avoiding costly retrofits.

Why Local Malaysian Professionals Matter in Accessibility Consulting

Malaysia needs more trained local experts like Ahmad Syafiq to accelerate progress toward truly inclusive built environments. With rapid urbanization in cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, and an increasing focus on livable, age-friendly communities, homegrown architects who understand local needs — from tropical climate considerations to cultural preferences — are essential.

By investing in Malaysian talent, we ensure:

• Culturally sensitive and context-appropriate universal design solutions.
• Stronger enforcement and awareness of national standards like MS 1184:2014.
• Faster, more affordable implementation of barrier-free access in public and private projects.
• Greater participation for PWDs in daily life — education, employment, recreation, and community activities.

Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT is committed to nurturing such talent and collaborating with local stakeholders to promote disability access audits and inclusive design across the country.

Join the Movement for a More Accessible Malaysia

If you're a developer, architect, local council, or property owner seeking expert accessibility consulting in Malaysia — including audits, compliance certification, design advice, or training — our team, including professionals like Ahmad Syafiq, is ready to help.

Contact us today to discuss your project and build spaces that truly serve everyone.

Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT Level 6, Menara Darussalam, 12 Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Phone: +60 3-2779 7117 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Discover more about our services, team, and success stories at accessconsultants.asia. For our international portfolio and Australian expertise, visit sydneyaccessconsultants.com.au.

Together with dedicated Malaysians like Ahmad Syafiq, we're removing barriers — one accessible space at a time!