Muslim Millennial MICE Design: Sustainable Architectural Approach in Medan City

Abstract

The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry is rapidly growing as a strategic sector supporting economic growth, tourism, and the exchange of ideas in urban communities. With the increasing participation of the younger generation, especially Muslim millennials, there is a need for spaces that not only support professional activities but also reflect spiritual values, diversity, and environmental sustainability. Muslim millennials possess distinctive characteristics, such as openness to technology, social awareness, environmental awareness, and religious practices that are maintained in modern life. Therefore, designing MICE for Muslim millennials with a sustainable architectural approach plays a crucial role in creating spaces that harmonize professional and social functions with religious values ​​and ecological awareness. This study is a research-based design study with an exploratory descriptive method approach to formulate and implement a design concept that suits the character and needs of the Muslim millennial generation, as well as addressing the challenges of today's architectural sustainability. This study produces a design with the basic concept of sustainable architecture that is "Empowering Ummah, Elevating Earth — With Dhikr at the Heart of Every Encounter" through a program of activities and the design of forms and spaces that are integrated functionally and philosophically. This study resulted in a design based on the basic concept of sustainable architecture tailored to the characteristics of Muslim millennials. The design focused on balancing the three main pillars of sustainability: ecological, economic, and social. The goal was to create multifunctional, environmentally friendly spaces that support community activities in an inclusive and sustainable manner. This concept is translated through the arrangement of interconnected spatial zoning and centered on public space as a bond between functions, with the mosque placed at the front of the building as the center of spiritual and social activities that have the longest duration of use. The three pillars are harmonized in the form of: Ecology, through the application of environmental protection principles, the use of renewable energy, and passive design strategies. Economy, by emphasizing cost efficiency, support for the local halal-based economy, and flexibility of spatial functions, and Equity, through fair, inclusive, and friendly access for all levels of society. Thus, the design of this MICE area is expected to create an environment that is not only multifunctional and family-friendly, but also reflects the role of Muslim millennials as guardians of the earth (khalifah fil ardh), in accordance with Islamic values ​​that emphasize sustainability, balance, and the welfare of the people.