KL Skyline Soars To New Heights With Samsung-Made Merdeka 118
Merdeka 118, Kuala Lumpur’s newest skyscraper, inaugurated by the King stands as a symbol of Malaysia’s progress and unity.
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During a recent magnificent ceremony, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah officially opened the majestic Merdeka 118, the newest architectural wonder that graces Kuala Lumpur’s skyline.
The event, marking the finalization of the world’s second-tallest building following Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, was a significant milestone for the nation, representing its accomplishments and solidarity.
JNews | KDYMM Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong Rasmi Menara Merdeka 118
— JapenPhg (@JapenPahang) January 12, 2024
Menara canggih yang memiliki 118 tingkat dengan ketinggian 678.9 meter itu adalah yang kedua tertinggi di dunia selepas Burj Khalifa Dubai (828 meter).#JNews#MalaysiaMADANI#JabatanPenerangan pic.twitter.com/hQvl5Y6aFZ
The 678.9-meter-tall Merdeka 118, built by Korean company Samsung C&T, symbolises Malaysia’s aspirations and national pride.
The skyscraper stands on historic ground, its name ‘Merdeka’ meaning ‘independence’ in Malay, signifying the country’s journey since 1957 when it gained freedom from British colonial rule.
The number ‘118’ refers to the significant number of floors within the structure.
A Landmark of Innovation and Investment
Merdeka 118 is an extensive complex with 118 floors above ground and 5 below, covering 673,862 square meters.
The building accommodates offices, luxury hotels, and shopping malls. It is notable for its top-floor observation deck, providing panoramic views of the city and is expected to become a globally renowned attraction.
Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), Malaysia’s largest fund management company, conceived the idea for this iconic structure and is owned through its subsidiary PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd.
The project’s cost has been a closely guarded secret, but it is known to be a multi-billion ringgit investment between RM3 billion to RM5 billion.
Designing and constructing a building of such magnitude came with its share of challenges, including the need to accommodate the region’s tropical climate and potential seismic activity.
The tower’s unique design features a symbolic and functional spire, acting as a pinnacle for the structure and as an antenna.
Debating the Tower: Cost, Consequences, and Controversy
Criticism and complaints about the Merdeka 118 tower have been varied, reflecting concerns about cost, environmental impact, and social priorities.
One major point of contention has been the cost of the project.
The allocation of a colossal investment in a single structure has raised questions about prioritising funds in the face of other social needs, such as affordable housing and broader population infrastructure improvements.
FAKTA | Bangunan Merdeka 118 ini dibina dgn duit PNB.
— Cybil Safran (@RenoFirdaus7) December 6, 2021
Duit ASB.
Bukan duit kerajaan atau Petronas mahupun kroni.
PNB milik 100% bangunan ini.
Pulangan dari bangunan ini juga kembali ke penyimpan ASB.
Ini adalah satu cara utk membina simpanan dan kekayaan bagi rakyat miskin. pic.twitter.com/ibCWX6Hg9G
Environmental concerns have also been raised, including the substantial carbon footprint and impact on the surrounding ecosystem that accompany the construction of such a large-scale project.
In contrast, Merdeka 118 is committed to sustainability.
It aims to become the first Malaysian tower to achieve a triple-platinum rating with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), GreenRE, and Green Building Index certification.
This commitment reflects an unwavering dedication to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, setting a new gold standard for sustainability in Malaysia.
Critics have pointed to the potential for increased pollution and the strain on local resources as negative consequences of the tower’s development.
From a social perspective, some argue that the Merdeka 118 tower does not address the socio-economic disparities within the country.
Rakyat miskin masih ramai. Gaji masih ditakuk lama. Harga barang semakin lama semakin naik. Nilai matawang masih rendah. Kini kita ada bangunan Merdeka 118. SYABAS MALAYSIAKU https://t.co/qFaYG45bI3
— MDFD (@faridshHamsudin) December 1, 2021
Some see it as an icon of wealth and power that stands in stark contrast to the lived realities of many Malaysians who may be struggling financially, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nevertheless, the Merdeka 118 is an engineering marvel that showcases the capabilities and achievements of modern engineering.
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