Merdeka 118 Crowned World’s Best Tall Building — Redefining Kuala Lumpur’s Skyline and Property Future

Kuala Lumpur has once again made history on the global stage. The city’s crown jewel, Merdeka 118 Tower, has been officially recognised as the Best Tall Building (300 metres and above) by the Council on Vertical Urbanism (CVU) — an achievement that cements Malaysia’s reputation as a global leader in architecture, engineering, and sustainable urban development.

Standing at 678.9 metres, Merdeka 118 is Southeast Asia’s tallest tower and the world’s second tallest, surpassed only by Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. More than a feat of height, it represents Malaysia’s vision, resilience, and boundless ambition.

Global Recognition for Malaysian Ingenuity

The prestigious award was presented during the CVU 2025 Awards Ceremony in Toronto, Canada, where Merdeka 118 was celebrated for its architectural brilliance, engineering excellence, and sustainability-driven design.

In a statement, PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PNBMV) — the developer and a subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) — said the award recognises years of dedication and innovation by Malaysian talent and international collaborators.

“Rising 678.9 metres in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Merdeka 118 stands as Southeast Asia’s tallest building and the world’s second-tallest tower, symbolising the nation’s progress and ambition,” the company noted.

This global recognition by CVU — formerly the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) — places Kuala Lumpur firmly among the world’s great cities of design, alongside Dubai, New York, and Shanghai.

A Tower That Embodies Malaysia’s Spirit

PNBMV chief executive officer Datuk Tengku Ab. Aziz Tengku Mahmud described the award as a tremendous honour not only for Malaysia but for everyone involved in the project’s journey.

“From the very beginning, our vision was not only to create an iconic tower but to shape a precinct that connects people, celebrates heritage, and contributes to a more sustainable and inclusive city,” he said.
“Merdeka 118 captures the spirit of independence, reflecting Malaysia’s enduring strength and optimism for the future.”

This sense of national pride and purpose runs through every element of Merdeka 118’s design. The tower’s striking faceted exterior draws inspiration from Malaysia’s flag and the dynamic geometry of traditional art forms. More than just a skyscraper, it’s a monument that celebrates freedom, culture, and progress.

Architecture that Blends Heritage and Modernity

Principal architect Karl Fender of Fender Katsalidis, the firm behind the project, said Merdeka 118’s vision goes beyond physical height.

“Designing Merdeka 118 was about creating a timeless monument that honours Malaysia’s past while celebrating its future,” he said.
“This award reaffirms our belief that great architecture is built with layers of purpose that inspire generations to come.”

Indeed, the tower’s location is as symbolic as its form. It rises beside Stadium Merdeka — the historic site where Malaysia declared its independence in 1957. Today, that legacy of unity and progress continues through the Merdeka 118 Precinct, which seamlessly combines heritage restoration with future-ready urban development.

The Merdeka 118 Precinct: A City Within a City

Developed as part of the Warisan Merdeka master plan, the Merdeka 118 Precinct is a mixed-use development designed to bring people together through culture, commerce, and community.

Anchored by Merdeka 118 Tower, the precinct features the upcoming 118 Mall, residential towers, office spaces, and public areas designed to encourage interaction and inclusion. Key heritage landmarks such as Stadium Merdeka and Stadium Negara form the cultural heart of this urban transformation.

According to PNBMV, community initiatives such as the Merdeka 118 Public Realm Improvement Programme and Community Grants Programme aim to revitalise surrounding neighbourhoods and foster local engagement. These efforts align with Malaysia’s broader Warisan KL project, which seeks to enhance Kuala Lumpur’s livability and cultural identity through sustainable design.

A Symbol of Sustainable Urbanism

CVU chairman Shonn Mills praised Merdeka 118 for exemplifying integrated design principles — blending cultural storytelling, environmental responsibility, and technical mastery.

“Merdeka 118 represents the pinnacle of integrated design,” Mills said.
“It exemplifies how tall buildings can drive urban regeneration while reflecting the identity and aspirations of a nation.”

The tower’s sustainability credentials include energy-efficient systems, environmentally responsive materials, and a design that maximises natural light and ventilation. These features make it one of the most advanced skyscrapers of its kind — a benchmark for sustainable architecture in Southeast Asia.

Elevating Kuala Lumpur’s Global Standing

For Kuala Lumpur, Merdeka 118’s international acclaim is far more than an architectural milestone — it’s a catalyst for economic growth, urban regeneration, and property market expansion.

The precinct’s transformation is attracting attention from investors worldwide, particularly those eyeing premium KL property opportunities in the city’s emerging districts. Surrounding areas such as Bukit Bintang, Pudu, and Jalan Hang Tuah are undergoing a renaissance, with new residential, retail, and lifestyle projects benefiting from the precinct’s proximity and prestige.

As one of the most photographed structures in Malaysia, Merdeka 118 is not just redefining the skyline — it’s redefining investor perception. Like the Petronas Twin Towers before it, this new landmark signals to the world that Kuala Lumpur is evolving into a global city of design, innovation, and investment potential.

Heritage Meets Future: The New Face of KL Property

The Merdeka 118 development represents a perfect synergy between heritage conservation and modern city-building — a balance increasingly sought after by investors and homeowners. Its surrounding precinct integrates green spaces, public art, and walkable streets, creating an environment that appeals to a new generation of urban dwellers.

Developers across Kuala Lumpur are taking cues from this approach, incorporating sustainability, community, and cultural context into their projects. This evolution is positioning KL property not just as a financial asset, but as a lifestyle investment in one of Asia’s most dynamic capitals.

Conclusion: A Tower That Inspires a Nation

Merdeka 118 is more than Malaysia’s tallest tower — it’s a symbol of the nation’s confidence and creative ambition. Its recognition as the Best Tall Building (300m and above) affirms Kuala Lumpur’s growing stature as a global city, where design excellence and sustainability meet economic progress.

For investors and residents alike, the message is clear: Kuala Lumpur is rising — literally and figuratively. And with landmark projects like Merdeka 118 shaping the city’s future, there has never been a better time to explore opportunities in KL property.

Discover your place in Malaysia’s most inspiring skyline at klproperty.cc — your trusted platform for premium real estate in Kuala Lumpur.