The Merdeka 118 project (formerly known as Menara Warisan Merdeka and PNB 118) was first announced back in 2014 and it was set to be Malaysia’s tallest building. In recent years, there have been several stories relating to the tower like the Russian daredevils as well as the drone crash incident.
The long-awaited day of the building’s opening has finally arrived! Here’s what went down during the official opening ceremony attended by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah Alhaj and his wife Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.
Last night (Wednesday, 10th January), was the official grand opening ceremony of the new skyscraper. The event was officiated by His Majesty Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah. “This new landmark, proudly standing in front of the revered stadium that witnessed the birth of an independent nation, carries a thousand significant meanings,” he said during the opening ceremony.
Apart from the Merdeka 118 tower, His Majesty also agreed to inaugurate the Al-Sultan Abdullah Mosque located at the historic site during the same event. Honoured guests not only got a preview of the new building but were also treated to a special sand art performance by Esther Yap accompanied by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra. The night ended with the captivating tower facade lighting.
Designed by Melbourne-based Fender Katsalidis, the now-open sophisticated tower, which is 678.9 metres in height, is officially the second tallest in the world after the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, with a height of 828 metres. While the tower itself is open to the public, the upcoming 118 Mall is still under development. However, it is expected to be operating sometime later this year.
Below is the highlight of the opening ceremony. Will you checking out Merdeka 118 soon?
Sources: TheVocket, Instagram, MalayMail
