As the years went by, we lost the title to many other mage structures around the world, but now we have a new kid on the block to put us back onto the world map.
Say Hi to Merdeka 118, which is officially the second tallest building in the world after Burj Khalifa in Dubai, and the tallest building in Southeast Asia.
If you have not heard of the latest pride of the nation, here are some quick facts about Merdeka 118 that you may want to know:
- The tower, funded by Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) at a cost of RM5 billion, is named Merdeka 118 to signify the country's independence and its 118-storeys.
- It will soar above the city's skyline at a whopping 678.9 metres, just shy of about 149 metres than the Burj Khalifa (828 metres). In comparison, KLCC stands at a mere 452 metres!
- Merdeka 118 is located in the vicinity of two of the country's landmarks - Stadium Merdeka and Stadium Negara.
- The shape of the glass and steel building, together with its spire, was inspired by, and built to resemble the silhoutte of the country's first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman raising his hand while chanting 'Merdeka' while proclaiming the country's independence on 31 August 1957.
- Merdeka 118 will be the first tower in the country to receive triple platinum green ratings in international sustainability certification, as well as the prestigious WELL certification.
- Once completed at the end of 2022, will comprise a mixture of office spaces, hotel rooms, a retail business centre, and recreational parks, among others.
- There will be a dedicated elevated platform erected at a recreational park across the building so that you can take your Instagram-perfect shot.
- Merdeka 118 will be easily accessible via a network of road and rail services.
No matter what is said, I guess as Malaysians, we can all agree on one common thing - that the not-so-little new kid is in town, and he's here to stay to make us all proud for now!
Photos source: Twitter, Utusan Malaysia.