Menara Merdeka 118 has received global recognition as the Best Tall Building in the 300m and above category by the Council on Vertical Urbanism (CVU), marking a proud moment for Malaysia.
Formerly known as the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), CVU is one of the world’s foremost authorities on skyscrapers and city living.
The recognition celebrates Merdeka 118’s architectural excellence, innovation in engineering and commitment to sustainability.
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.
PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PNBMV) chief executive officer Dato’ Tengku Ab. Aziz Tengku Mahmud said the 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,” he said.
Fender Katsalidis principal architect Karl Fender said designing Merdeka 118 was about far more than reaching extraordinary height – it was the opportunity to create a timeless monument that symbolize and honour Malaysia’s heritage while celebrating its future.
“This award reaffirms our belief that great architecture is built with layers of purpose, that will inspire future generations,” he said.
Council on Vertical Urbanism (CVB) chairman Shonn Mills said Merdeka 118 represents the pinnacle of integrated design, combining 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,” he said.
The award was presented at the CVU 2025 Awards Ceremony in Toronto, Canada. Merdeka 118 was recognised alongside other outstanding global developments for its leadership in design, innovation and contribution to sustainable urbanism.
Built by PNB Merdeka Ventures, a wholly owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), Merdeka 118 tower is the centrepiece of the Merdeka 118 precinct, a mixed-use development anchored by two 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, 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.
This global recognition reaffirms Malaysia’s growing leadership in sustainable and inclusive developments.
