One of Malaysia’s most haunting landmarks may finally meet its end, over three decades after tragedy struck. The notorious and tragic Highland Towers in Hulu Keang, Selangor. Known for the collapse of Tower Block 1 in the heavy rain, which took 48 lives in 1993.
Once a symbol of upscale living, the now-abandoned complex has long stood as a ghostly reminder of the past, drawing concern from nearby residents and urban explorers alike. Over the years, safety risks and community complaints have reignited calls for its demolition, raising the question: what should become of this scarred site?
A decision on whether the two remaining Highland Towers blocks can be demolished is expected in two months, with the Ampang Magistrate Court scheduled to deliver its verdict on July 25. The Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ), which filed for a court order last year, has been actively pursuing the clearance of the abandoned structures after years of inaction and public concern.
According to MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari, the council must wait for the court’s ruling before proceeding with any demolition work. “Once the court delivers its verdict, MPAJ has to inform the state government. Only after receiving the state government’s input can MPAJ move forward,” he said during the council’s monthly full board meeting held at Menara MPAJ, Pandan Indah.
In light of the repeated complaints from nearby residents, the council began the process of demolishing the remaining blocks. MPAJ president Dr Ani Ahmad had stated that demolition notices would be issued to the property owners and that the process would follow Sections 87, 88, and 89 of the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 (Act 133) — laws that relate to public nuisances and buildings unfit for habitation.
While the cost of demolition would cost a pretty penny of RM6 million and RM7 million, the abandoned blocks could be transformed into a public recreational park, according to stalled plans from 2018 by then Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin.
Should the court grant approval and the Selangor state government give the green light, MPAJ will finally be able to proceed with the long-delayed demolition. What comes after remains unclear, but residents and urban planners alike hope it will bring closure and new opportunities for the community.
If the court and state government approve, MPAJ can finally proceed with demolishing the long-abandoned Highland Towers blocks — a move many hope will bring closure and spark new possibilities for the site. At the same time, the council is advancing wider urban upgrades with RM7.5 million allocated for local infrastructure and an additional RM25 million from state and federal sources to support roadworks, public amenities, and pedestrian-friendly projects, reflecting a broader push for people-focused development in the area.
What would you do with the Highland Towers?
Source: The Star
Gan contributed to this article.
