a. Star of the Sea project aims to enhance early age education through interior architecture effort by utilizing locally sourced fish crates in through a design system, focusing on durability and accessibility. These crates serve a dual purpose, providing functional elements for children's play, teacher's storage, and flexible seating, thereby contributing to the liveliness and aesthetic configuration within the learning space.

b. Securing RM10,000 from the MSF foundation and crowdfunding an additional RM10,850 through MSF platforms, the project gained further financial backing from the St. Parish de Sales church, the owner and operator of the kindergarten. Support extended beyond financial contributions, encompassing donations from parents and sponsors, as well as the provision of materials, services, tools, and machinery, collectively contributing to the successful realization of the project.

c. The Star of the Sea project was initiated by identifying the needs of teachers and children and addressing three primary challenges: termite issues, future renovation plans (specifically, upgrading the floor, wall and strengthening the building structures), and ensuring that the scope of works aligns with our delivery capabilities and budget constraints. Our research into Pangkor's local resources and materials led us to the innovative use of fish crates in the fishing industry—termite-proof, readily available, and versatile for use as seating, tables, storage, and more. We developed two systems: one as an organizing system for display and drawer storage through a modular steel frame, and the other exploring the educational potential of crates as a pegboard for interactive learning, also with other enhanced features like a chalkboard. Components A and B were introduced in this project, complemented by a TV cabinet to enhance the modern learning platform for children, facilitating teachers in incorporating modern technology into their teaching methods.

d. Although RM20,000 may seem substantial, it is limited for executing an interior architecture project. Consequently, the team must carefully prioritize ideas, material selection, and functionalities, opting for efficiency. Moreover, time constraints are significant, particularly for interior architecture students managing ongoing classes, necessitating strategic time allocation.
.
e. Pangkor Island generally has a high population of chinese and as most of the team is chinese, language and cultural barriers are minimal which we can handle without much hassle. 

f. In the initial design phase, we explored replacing the collapsible wall components, generating nearly 10 design proposals. Following extensive discussions and evaluations of the space, we recognized our limitations in executing the designs with the required professionalism, ensuring both functionality and safety. Consequently, we decided to narrow our focus, opting for small-scale furniture and fabrication, which proved to be a more successful approach within the scope of the project.

g. Our primary focus was to enhance the experience for the three teachers and 43 current students at Star of the Sea Kindergarten, aiming to facilitate teaching and create a more engaging learning environment. Beyond immediate benefits, these incremental improvements in the kindergarten could contribute to elevating the overall quality of education for the island's future generation. 

h. Introducing play-plugin furniture to the kindergarten marks the initial phase of the Star of the Sea project. Ongoing discussions with stakeholders have identified potential upgrades in various phases, including improvements to walls, floors, and termite treatment. These considerations ensure the play-plugin furniture's adaptability for easy removal and reinstallation during future renovations. Notably, locals have expressed interest in our innovative use of fish crates, with requests for additional furniture for their homes and local temples. The project has sparked a newfound appreciation among locals for the beauty and versatility of fish crates, offering a fresh perspective on how these elements can enhance their daily lives unlocking other creative potentials.

a.i. Enhancing the teaching experience for teacher and creating a joyful learning atmosphere for children were the primary goals of our project. The positive reception during the handover day from teachers, kids, and parents underscores the success of our design. Utilizing locally sourced materials from Pangkor Island ensures the longevity of the furniture components, allowing for easy replacement of any broken parts. The project has not only introduced a creative approach to utilizing fish crates but has also fostered a newfound appreciation for beauty and functionality of a daily object within the local community. By extending this idea to homes, parents can create lasting play features for their children. We are confident that the Star of the Sea project has not only brought happiness to the kindergarten but has also positively impacted the entire local community of Pangkor.

a.ii. I personally think this project change my perspective of an interior architecture project as a whole, as Interior Architecture students who always doing design and assignment alone, rushed by deadlines and such, having to work with a team of trusted personels as well as connecting with the local community starting from the kindheartedness of providing accomodation, food, transporations, and further support on the project is really a beautiful bond and experience that you can't get without going through a community project. While I believe there are a lot of kind and goodwill around the world, community projects like these are the reason why these people gather to bring more happiness to the world. 

b. While the process of the project is hardships all around, however that short amount of time compared to the further impact for years to come bringing happiness towards people is incomparable. Ultimately, I really appreciate all the people who took their time and effort participating in this journey and bonds forged along the way with all personels involved, I really belive that "It takes big hearts to shape little minds"  -Rocano Hadyancia

In the Star of the Sea project, I found wisdom in transforming kindergarten study and play, valuing local nuances, mastering teamwork, and celebrating diverse cultures—a testament to the vital role of community in education -Aishath Raaviya

Now it's no longer just a crate; it's a shared source of happiness and connection. The project showcase me the power of a fresh perspective, by thinking differently it could turn the ordinary into extraordinary. -Wong Xin Hui

The ability to gain knowledge while supporting the less-privileged community, and guided by a strong team boosts a sense of gratitude and camaraderie. -Stanley Wiselim

Star of the sea has allowed me to bridge the gap between design phase and concept realization by taking into consideration different aspects such as practicality and budget. This project seeks to elevate the learning environment for children to better improve their cognitive and motor abilities through local adaptations of culture such as fishing crates used for storing, sitting, as a table and as a play element.

-Yap Yi Zi

I feel honoured to have this opportunity to participate in this event. The experience itself is unique and fun so much so that I would look forward for the next and upcoming events -Gasten Gan