It’s absolutely heartbreaking to hear that an iconic building will be demolished after years of operation. Back in 2016, it was reported that the iconic Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur may be demolished to make way for a multibillion-ringgit integrated project. However, at the time no details regarding the project were revealed.
Sadly, according to several reports, it has now been confirmed that the hotel, which is also home to Malaysia’s first-ever Hard Rock Cafe, is currently up for sale. The beloved 4-star establishment is reportedly up for grabs for nearly RM700 million, along with the neighbouring land, according to New Straits Times (NST).
The building, which is linked to Singapore-based Malaysian billionaire Ong Beng Seng, has been in operation at Jalan Sultan Ismail for over 6 decades and will soon meet its end once a buyer acquires the rights to the property. “Several investors have shown interest in redeveloping the site due to its prime location. However, the owners are not in a hurry to sell it unless a very attractive offer comes through,” a source told Business Times.
While we understand how everyone is devastated by the news, let us reminisce about some of the iconic moments that took place at the hotel. Here are some of Concorde Hotel KL’s most famous guests who have once checked in:
1. Michael Jackson
Let’s start with the most famous guest of them all – the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson. The late icon checked into Concorde Hotel KL back in 1996 while he was here for his HIStory World Tour concert at Stadium Merdeka. The legend received a very warm welcome not only from the staff but also from fans who gathered outside the building to catch a glimpse of the singer.
2. Wonder Girls (원더걸스)
They’re one of the most popular second-generation K-pop girl groups of all time. Wonder Girls have performed in Malaysia a few times and during one of those times, the members were seen having dinner at the Concorde Hotel after the Petronas Twin Towers @ LIVE concert back in 2011. During their feast, the girls were approached by the restaurant’s live band who performed their hit “NOBODY” for them.
3. John Ford Coley
Classic Rock singer John Ford Coley was also a guest at the Concorde Hotel. As a matter of fact, the Grammy nominee even performed a 90-minute concert at Concorde Ballroom back in 2011. Malaysian veteran singer Dato’ Khadijah Ibrahim opened for his show.
Update (12th September):
Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur has since released the following statement:
“The owners and shareholders wish to assure our valued guests, partners and the community that Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur is not for sale.
Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur continues to thrive, thanks to our dedicated team and loyal guests. Our business is performing exceptionally well and we are seeing strong results. Our shareholders are satisfied with our progress and the direction we are taking.
Rebranded from the former Merlin Hotel which has stood tall for the past 67 years since Malaysia’s independence, Concorde Kuala Lumpur is fully committed to its continued operation and legacy. Now into our 33rd year in the hospitality business, Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur is here to stay. We remain focused on enhancing our services and expanding our offerings to better serve our valued clientele. We appreciate the continued support and look forward to welcoming guests for many years to come.”
