Women in Construction: Monique Suksmaningsih, principal and head of the Singapore studio, Broadway Malyan

After more than 15 years in the industry, it is impossible not to see Monique Suksmaningsih’s passion for her work in the built environment.

Suksmaningsih, who is a principal and the head of the Singapore studio at Broadway Malyan, is an urban planner, and her belief in the profession is undeniable.

“We are the connectors – we have the opportunities to shape who we are with,” she says. “The built environment affects our health and our wellbeing, our entire world. What we do in our professions can change lives. That’s what gives you the reward.”

Now based in Singapore, she has spent the last 14 years at Broadway Malyan, having previously worked in London with KPF and in the Netherlands. “I manage the office but I am still very much hands-on. I work with different studios across Broadway Malyan, covering regions such as South East Asia, the Middle East and parts of India, collaborating with teams in London, Warsaw and other locations,” she explains.

Her day-to-day responsibilities involve overseeing multiple projects while fostering collaboration within her teams and with clients. “We always have to respect the places where we work. It’s fun, though, because we get to work as a team, with our clients as well, and that’s what we enjoy doing,” she says.

I’ve had very good mentors, both male and female, and good supporters. I’ve had great opportunities – and when you give me a challenge, I will take it and be ready for the next one 

Monique Suksmaningsih, principal and head of the Singapore studio, Broadway Malyan

Suksmaningsih’s journey into urban planning was driven by her passion for sustainability and interdisciplinary collaboration. “What we do with cities, the importance of community engagement and community empowerment – these are the reasons I chose this field,” she says. She has had strong mentors throughout her career, who helped shape her path. “I’ve had very good mentors, both male and female, and good supporters. I’ve had great opportunities – and when you give me a challenge, I will take it and be ready for the next one.” 

A key moment in her career was being asked to lead the Singapore studio. “You’re not doing it on your own. It was a big next step, but collaborative working helped me navigate that,” she says. Suksmaningsih believes that teamwork and support are essential to overcoming challenges in the industry. “Every project has its own challenges and, whether in the workplace or on site, collaboration is key to solving them.”

One of her most rewarding projects is the urban transformation initiative in Dolly, Indonesia, a former red-light district. “It’s a project close to my heart,” she says. “Empathy and humility are crucial in urban transformation, and through the Future Global Cities Programme we worked on a vision for a more inclusive future.” She also highlights high-profile transit-oriented development projects across 200ha as particularly meaningful contributions to the built environment.

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Suksmaningsih acknowledges that the industry has evolved to become more inclusive for women. “The industry has done a lot compared to 20 years ago. There have been real efforts to attract more women,” she notes. “I have had really good mentors, and that’s really important. Highlighting women’s achievements and ensuring they have opportunities to progress is essential.

“We now have more female partners in architecture, and I see female colleagues who manage to be on top of everything and excel in the workplace,” she adds.

She does see herself as a role model – “I try to be,” she says – but believes there is always more to learn. Her biggest career achievement, she says, is not a single project but the ongoing ability to make a positive impact. “I’m still learning, and I believe that we do have a role to play in shaping the world and communities,” she explains.

For women looking to enter a career in the built environment, she advises: “Never stop learning, keep being involved in challenging projects, and embrace your network and collaboration.” She also emphasises the importance of interdisciplinary thinking and inclusivity. “As urban planners, we connect different disciplines. We must consider equity, vulnerable communities, and the broader social impact of our work,” she says.

Suksmaningsih has worked on a variety of large-scale projects, including transit-oriented developments and urban planning initiatives in Bangkok and Jakarta. “Bunda Malaysia and the first LRT in Jakarta are projects that stand out. They highlight the need for thoughtful urban development that integrates mobility and community needs,” she says.

Her passion for urban planning remains strong, and she continues to push for innovation and inclusivity in the industry. “We have the ability to shape cities and lives through our work. That’s what drives me every day,” she concludes.