KLCC Holdings’ Vision: Transforming Bandar Malaysia into Malaysia’s Next Icon
Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) and Putrajaya are synonymous with modern Malaysian identity. Now, KLCC Holdings (KLCCH) is set to add a third iconic destination to this list: Bandar Malaysia. Positioned as a future global business hub, Bandar Malaysia is envisioned to complement the grandeur of KLCC and the administrative importance of Putrajaya.
Datuk Mohd Salem Kailany, the newly appointed group CEO of KLCCH, has made it clear that the development of Bandar Malaysia will be a long-term, transformative project. Having taken over the role in November 2024, Salem is bringing his vast experience from his tenure at UDA Holdings, PNB Development, and Sime Darby Property to steer the company’s future.
Bandar Malaysia: The Vision and Mission
Located on the 486-acre Sungai Besi tract, previously the Royal Malaysian Air Force base, Bandar Malaysia aims to become a liveable, inclusive city that boosts Kuala Lumpur’s global appeal. Salem sees it as the next landmark project that will add value to the urban landscape, complementing the existing prestige of KLCC and Putrajaya.
Salem’s strategy involves leveraging the lessons learned from developing KLCC and Putrajaya, while embracing new design elements suitable for a modern, self-sustaining township. He is committed to ensuring that the initial development phases align with market expectations.
“We are looking at a self-sustaining development that provides job opportunities and a good living environment,” says Salem.
An Economic Powerhouse
Bandar Malaysia is not just about infrastructure; it is also about creating an economic corridor that fosters business growth and community development. The master plan, expected to be unveiled by the end of the year, will focus on commercial spaces, residential areas, public amenities, and green spaces.
By leveraging its proximity to KLCC and Putrajaya, Bandar Malaysia will offer connectivity through new transit-oriented developments (TODs) and a robust transport network. This approach aims to make it a strategic business hub that attracts both local and international investors.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Salem acknowledges that each real estate project requires a unique approach, balancing the art and science of development. Drawing from his three decades of experience, he understands that while some aspects of real estate can be quantified, others rely on market sentiment and human experience.
“It’s really about understanding behavioural changes and translating that into the product,” Salem emphasizes.
Expanding the KLCC Precinct
KLCCH’s new development, Ombak KLCC, is set to enhance the KLCC precinct with a six-storey retail and lifestyle hub. Positioned adjacent to the Persiaran KLCC MRT Station, Ombak will feature 120 retail lots, a rooftop park, and immersive lifestyle experiences, including the new Galeri Petronas as the anchor tenant.
The project is expected to cater to the growing demand for lifestyle retail spaces in Kuala Lumpur and will be directly connected to Suria KLCC via a covered walkway, adding convenience for visitors.
Revitalizing Putrajaya: The Terra Project
Beyond Kuala Lumpur, Salem aims to transform Putrajaya into a preferred residential address through the Terra project. Located in Precinct 8, Terra will include residential towers, a hospitality component, and commercial spaces. The project aims to leverage Putrajaya’s central location between Puchong, Cyberjaya, and Serenia City.
The first phase, Terra Residences, has already seen remarkable success, with 82% of Block C units sold. With completion slated for June 2025, the project promises to redefine upscale living in the administrative capital.
### Maintaining Asset Value
A significant aspect of KLCCH’s strategy under Salem is to preserve and enhance asset value. The KLCCP Stapled Group, which includes Petronas Twin Towers, Menara ExxonMobil, Suria KLCC, and Mandarin Oriental, has consistently delivered strong financial performance. In 2024, the group recorded RM1.7 billion in revenue, marking a 5.7% year-on-year growth.
One of the highlights was the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, which posted its highest room revenue of RM15.8 million in July 2024, boosted by high occupancy rates and premium room rates. The hotel has also introduced leisure upgrades, including pickleball courts and an enhanced tennis court, to meet the evolving needs of guests.
Future of Real Estate in Malaysia
Salem is optimistic about the real estate market, emphasizing that despite challenges, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya are resilient markets. He points to the need for adaptive designs that reflect changing lifestyles, such as work-from-home spaces and open-plan office environments.
“Challenges are plenty, but they are nothing peculiar. It’s about how we manage them,” says Salem.
Why Bandar Malaysia Matters
Bandar Malaysia represents the future of urban development in Malaysia. As a mega-project with a 50-year timeline, it will be a testament to sustainable growth and strategic planning. By prioritizing connectivity, business opportunities, and residential quality, Bandar Malaysia is set to transform Kuala Lumpur’s urban fabric.
KLCCH’s strategic focus on iconic, integrated developments will not only strengthen the company’s portfolio but also secure its position as a leader in Malaysian real estate. As the ASEAN Summit 2025 and Visit Malaysia Year 2026 approach, KLCC and Bandar Malaysia are poised to play significant roles in welcoming international visitors and investors.
Final Thoughts
Under Datuk Mohd Salem Kailany’s leadership, KLCCH is set to push boundaries, not just with Bandar Malaysia but also through revitalizing existing landmarks like KLCC and expanding residential appeal in Putrajaya. With a customer-focused approach and strategic innovation, KLCCH aims to build a legacy of sustainable and iconic urban spaces.
For more updates on Kuala Lumpur’s real estate developments and property insights, visit KLProperty.cc.
