Nik Umar Solihin bin Nik Kamaruzaman is a lecturer at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Ekistics, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. He holds a Master of Architecture from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) and a Bachelor of Architecture from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). His academic and research interests include Digital Architecture, Building Information Modelling (BIM) and the conservation of architectural heritage.

In Malaysia, heritage buildings such as traditional Malay houses, colonial-era structures and iconic shophouses stand as enduring symbols of cultural identity. These structures not only showcase the architectural styles of the past but also contribute significantly to the local economy and tourism sector. Thus, preserving these cultural assets is a national priority to ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from them.

However, the documentation and digitization of these buildings pose numerous challenges. Traditional architectural elements often feature intricate carvings and complex forms that are difficult to capture accurately using conventional digital tools. In addition, objects with fewer surface features can result in lower-quality scans, producing mesh models that lack detail and fidelity.

To overcome these challenges, researchers and practitioners have begun integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic technologies—such as drones and additive manufacturing—into the architectural documentation process. These tools not only enhance the accuracy of data capture but also streamline the process of digitally reproducing historical structures.

The workflow for this innovative approach begins with a comprehensive site study, followed by data acquisition using drone technology. Drones are deployed to capture high-resolution images and videos of the building’s exterior in a circular motion around the structure. This method ensures comprehensive coverage of all surfaces and architectural details.

Once the visual data is collected, it is processed using KIRI Engine, a cutting-edge software that utilizes AI-driven Featureless Object Scanning. Powered by a Neural Radiance Field (NeRF) system, the software analyzes various sets of images captured by the drone to generate high-quality point clouds and detailed mesh models. This AI-based approach enables accurate reconstruction even in the absence of prominent surface features.

The resulting mesh model can then be exported into Revit software for further development in a Building Information Modelling (BIM) environment. This allows for systematic and structured heritage documentation, ensuring the data is preserved and accessible for future architectural studies, conservation efforts, and policy planning.

Moreover, the digital data can also be transformed into an Extended Reality (XR) environment, providing an immersive learning experience. This application holds tremendous potential for educational use, cultural tourism, and public awareness initiatives. By integrating XR, users can virtually explore heritage buildings in their original context, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Malaysia’s architectural legacy.

In summary, the use of AI and drone technology represents a transformative approach in the field of architectural heritage documentation. It not only preserves the physical and aesthetic value of historical structures but also enhances accessibility, learning and conservation through digital innovation.