For over 20 years, the twin Petronas Towers have reigned supreme over Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia. The Exchange 106, completed in 2019, came just eight metres short of becoming the tallest building in the country. But a new challenger—Merdeka PNB 118—is on track to blow them both out of the water.

Merdeka PNB 118 rendering, image via Fender Katsalidis Architects

Rising to a height of 644 metres and 118 storeys, the megatall tower by PNB Merdeka Ventures and designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects will surpass the Shanghai Tower to become the second-tallest building in the world.

Merdeka PNB 118 construction progress, image by Renek78 via Wikimedia Commons

As the building continues to rise, its crystalline massing and faceted glazing are making a substantial impact on the Kuala Lumpur skyline. The geometric expression of the tower, comprised of multiple triangular shapes, reflects those found in traditional Malaysian arts and crafts.

Merdeka PNB 118 in the Kuala Lumpur skyline, image by Flickr user RICO Lee via Creative Commons

Upon completion in 2021, the tower will house office space, a Park Hyatt hotel, serviced residences, a retail mall, conference spaces, and a dual-level observation deck. It will form the centrepiece of Kuala Lumpur's Merdeka site, where Malaysian independence was declared in 1957.

Merdeka PNB 118 under construction, image by Flickr user Dennis Sylvester Hurd via Creative Commons

For more information, check out the associated Database file and Forum thread, and as always, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section below.