By Nurin Najmina Zaidi
KUALA LUMPUR, 1 December 2021: The establishment of the global icon, Merdeka 118, the highest building in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, and the second highest in the world after Burj Khalifa in Dubai (the United Arab Emirates), will serve as the industry benchmark in the country.
“This tower of our pride will not only boost the economy of the country and the people, but will also attract international tourists and make Malaysia famous in the whole world,” Prime Minister, Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the Merdeka 118 was also the first tower to achieve a triple green platinum rating with international sustainability certification and also received the WELL certification.
With a height of 678.9 meters, the tower was inspired by the image of the first Malaysian Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj raising his hand and professing “Merdeka” on 31st August 1957.
Located in Jalan Hang Jebat, Kuala Lumpur, the name ‘Merdeka’ was inspired by the location of the tower where it was situated near two historic areas mainly Stadium Merdeka and Stadium Negara.
While the number 118 was due to the number of floors. Hence, the name Merdeka 118 was established.
“The strategic location of Merdeka 118 will also benefit the Malaysian Family by becoming a new catalyst for the country’s economy, especially Kuala Lumpur,” the Prime Minister said.
“Apart from doing business in the surrounding area, Malaysian Family members can also hold various activities through the Merdeka 118 Community Grant Programme,” he said.
The Prime Minister also emphasised that the Merdeka 118 will be complementing the other areas that are developed such as KLCC, KL-Sentral, and other upcoming areas.
Moreover, it is also to generate growth around Petaling Street, Kampung Atap, and Pudu.
The Merdeka 118 will have unique features such as a lookout place on the 118th floor. Other than that, it will also include a textile museum, cafe, souvenir shop, observation deck as well as a Grade A office space that encompasses 83 floors.
Furthermore, the Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur will be occupying the top 17 floors with 252 guestrooms.
The Merdeka 118 is now 85% complete and is expected to be ready by the end of 2022 and open in early 2023.***
Source: BERNAMA