Malaysia's iconic Merdeka 118 Tower has achieved international recognition by winning the prestigious Best Tall Building award in the 300 meters and above category from the Council on Vertical Urbanism (CVU). This significant achievement marks a proud milestone for Malaysia on the global architectural stage, highlighting the nation's growing prominence in sustainable urban development and engineering excellence.
The award was presented at the CVU 2025 Awards Ceremony held in Toronto, Canada, which celebrates outstanding achievements in tall building design and urban planning worldwide. The CVU, formerly known as the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), stands as one of the world's leading authorities on skyscrapers and innovative urban living solutions.
According to a statement from PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PNBMV), the recognition specifically highlights Merdeka 118's exceptional architectural brilliance, groundbreaking engineering innovation, and strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The tower rises an impressive 678.9 meters into the heart of Kuala Lumpur's skyline, establishing itself as Southeast Asia's tallest building and the world's second-tallest tower, symbolizing Malaysia's remarkable progress and ambitious vision for the future.
PNBMV Chief Executive Officer Datuk Tengku Ab. Aziz Tengku Mahmud expressed his pride in receiving this tremendous honor for Malaysia and everyone who contributed to bringing this landmark project to life. "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 stated. "We are proud to see this vision recognized internationally. Merdeka 118 captures the spirit of independence, reflecting Malaysia's enduring strength and optimism for the future."
The project's principal architect Karl Fender from Fender Katsalidis emphasized that designing Merdeka 118 involved much more than simply achieving extraordinary height. "It was about creating a timeless monument that honors Malaysia's past while celebrating its future," Fender explained. "This award reaffirms our belief that great architecture is built with layers of purpose that inspire generations to come."
CVU Chairman Shonn Mills praised Merdeka 118 as representing the pinnacle of integrated design, successfully combining technical excellence with cultural storytelling and environmental responsibility. "It exemplifies how tall buildings can drive urban regeneration while reflecting the identity and aspirations of a nation," Mills commented, noting how the project sets new standards for sustainable urbanism.
Developed by PNB Merdeka Ventures, a wholly owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), Merdeka 118 serves as the centerpiece of the comprehensive Merdeka 118 Precinct. This mixed-use development is strategically anchored by two heritage stadiums, extensive community spaces, and sustainability-driven design principles that prioritize environmental consciousness and social inclusion.
The development includes key components such as the historic Stadium Merdeka and the upcoming 118 Mall, which are envisioned as inclusive public destinations that serve the broader community. These facilities are complemented by community-driven initiatives including the Merdeka 118 Public Realm Improvement program and the Merdeka 118 Community Grants program, both designed to enhance local engagement and social impact.
Both community initiatives form part of the larger Warisan KL project, an ambitious urban revitalization effort aimed at transforming surrounding neighborhoods and strengthening community connections throughout the city. This comprehensive approach demonstrates how large-scale development projects can contribute positively to existing urban fabric while fostering community cohesion and cultural preservation.
PNBMV emphasized that this global recognition reaffirms Malaysia's growing leadership position in sustainable and inclusive urban development practices. The award acknowledges not only the tower's impressive physical achievements but also its broader contribution to setting new standards for responsible urban growth and community-centered development in Southeast Asia and beyond.
