Arup wins Gold at ACEM Engineering Awards 2025 for Merdeka 118

Fazidin Faisal, Arup’s Malaysia Country Leader said: “This recognition is a testament to Arup’s role as a trusted partner in shaping Malaysia’s built environment, delivering transformative projects that combine engineering excellence with lasting impact for the generations to come.”

As the civil and structural engineer of record, Arup delivered key technical innovations to the 678.9-metre Merdeka 118 tower, which features a multi-faceted diamond-shaped façade and a distinctive spire. The firm co-developed a high-performance concrete (HPC) with record-breaking pumpability, an innovation that significantly improved constructability, enabled substantial structural steel savings, and reduced environmental impact.

Arup also played a key role in preserving the historic neighbourhood through careful excavation and extensive geotechnical monitoring. Slated to achieve triple-green platinum certification, the iconic tower by PNB Merdeka Venture Sdn. Berhad has become a catalyst for economic growth, driving the rejuvenation of a cultural precinct at the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

The project has also fostered invaluable knowledge, and skills transfer to local engineering industry, and the firm further contributes by actively sharing these insights with the broader engineering community through professional bodies.

“The project stands as an outstanding example of engineering excellence, combining innovation, sustainability, and community impact while setting a benchmark for the profession,” said ACEM Awards Committee.