Ab Aziz (holding the trophy) and the Merdeka 118 project team celebrating the win.
PETALING JAYA: Merdeka 118 tower has been officially recognised as the Best Tall Building in the 300m and above category by the Council on Vertical Urbanism (CVU), formerly known as the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH).
The recognition celebrates Merdeka 118’s architectural excellence, innovation in engineering and commitment to sustainability, marking a proud moment for Malaysia on the global stage. Rising 678.9m in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Merdeka 118 stands as Southeast Asia’s tallest building and the world’s second tallest tower.
“This recognition is a tremendous honour for Malaysia and for everyone who contributed to bringing Merdeka 118 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. Merdeka 118 tower captures the spirit of independence, reflecting Malaysia’s enduring strength and optimism for the future. We are proud to see this vision recognised on an international platform,” said PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PNBMV) chief executive officer Datuk Tengku Ab Aziz Tengku Mahmud.
CVU chairman Shonn Mills said: “Merdeka 118 represents the pinnacle of integrated design, a project that combines technical mastery, cultural storytelling and environmental responsibility. It exemplifies how tall buildings can serve as catalysts for urban regeneration while reflecting the identity and aspirations of a nation.”
Merdeka 118 tower was built by PNBMV, a wholly owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB). Merdeka 118 tower is the centrepiece of a broader Merdeka 118 precinct, a mixed-use development anchored by 2 heritage stadiums, community spaces and sustainability-driven design. Key components such as Stadium Merdeka and the upcoming 118 Mall are envisioned as inclusive destinations for the public. These are complemented by community-focused efforts, including the Merdeka 118 Public Realm Improvement and the Merdeka 118 Community Grants Programmes. Both programmes form part of the Warisan KL initiative to revitalise surrounding neighbourhoods and strengthen community connections in the city.
The award was presented at the CVU 2025 Awards Ceremony in Toronto, Canada.
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