logo
New tunnel for easy access to world's second tallest tower

New tunnel for easy access to world's second tallest tower

The Star25-04-2025
To enter the Belfield Tunnel from Jalan Syed Putra, keep right.
Visitors to Merdeka 118, the world's second-tallest tower, now have a smoother drive into the precinct, thanks to opening of the Belfield Tunnel.
The new access route was an infrastructure project by PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PMVSB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysian investment management company Permodalan Nasional Berhad.
It provides alternative entry and exit points to and from Menara Merdeka 118 while easing congestion on city roads.
The Belfield Tunnel, which spanning just over 1km, is Malaysia's second two-storey tunnel.
PMVSB chief executive officer Tengku Datuk Ab Aziz Tengku Mahmud said, 'We are pleased to open the Belfield Tunnel, a vital link that will make visiting Merdeka 118 and its surrounding landmarks, including Stadium Merdeka, more convenient than ever.
'Our goal is to provide a seamless and stress-free journey into the city, ensuring easier access for everyone.
'With ample parking for up to 8,000 cars, we look forward to welcoming people from all walks of life to experience all that Merdeka 118 has to offer, once we are fully open.'
The Belfield Tunnel can be accessed via two entry points, namely on Jalan Syed Putra and Jalan Damansara.
The tunnel leads vehicles directly into the level four basement carpark of Menara Merdeka 118.
For departures, vehicles exit from the level five basement carpark through two designated exits namely, Jalan Syed Putra and Jalan Istana.
The Belfield Tunnel is expected to reduce traffic buildup in surrounding areas such as Jalan Hang Jebat, Jalan Hang Tuah and Jalan Maharajalela.
The tunnel will also link visitors to Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur and 118 Mall that are set to open in the second quarter of 2025 and second quarter of 2026, respectively.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Zahid: Fast-track programme to turn skilled workers into engineers, says Zahid
Zahid: Fast-track programme to turn skilled workers into engineers, says Zahid

New Straits Times

time25 minutes ago

  • New Straits Times

Zahid: Fast-track programme to turn skilled workers into engineers, says Zahid

SHAH ALAM: The government will roll out an upskilling initiative to fast-track skilled workers into engineering programmes, in an effort to address the nationwide shortage of engineers. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the initiative would enable skilled workers to become engineers in various fields by adding just one or two years to their existing studies. "Currently, Malaysia produces only 6,000 engineers annually. In the short to medium term, we are focusing on upskilling skilled workers to address the shortage of 60,000 engineers. "Those who have completed the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) Level 5 — equivalent to a diploma — will be upskilled and placed in six universities under the Malaysian Technical University Network," said Zahid, who also chairs the National TVET Council. He was speaking at a press conference after launching the TVET programme at Management and Science University in Shah Alam today. When asked about the timeline to resolve the shortage, Zahid said it could take up to 10 years at the current rate. However, he added that the government aimed at accelerating the process with support from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Department of Skills Development (JKM), through a synchronisation initiative to unify accreditation frameworks. "With this approach, SKM Level 5 graduates may be able to complete their studies within three to four semesters, depending on the training they previously received from their TVET institutions. "This fast-track approach does not compromise quality, as credit transfers are officially recognised by MQA and JKM. This enables us to significantly increase the number of professional engineers in the country," he said. On July 17, Zahid had urged Malaysian professionals working abroad — especially engineers — to return home and contribute to national development. He said that low salaries in Malaysia had driven many to seek better opportunities overseas.

JB car washes reclassified as high-risk over Singapore-only allegations
JB car washes reclassified as high-risk over Singapore-only allegations

New Straits Times

time37 minutes ago

  • New Straits Times

JB car washes reclassified as high-risk over Singapore-only allegations

JOHOR BARU: Car wash centres in the city have been reclassified as high-risk businesses following repeated breaches of regulations, prompting tighter licensing conditions and stricter enforcement by the Johor Baru City Council. Its mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad said the decision was made during a recent meeting of the council's licensing committee, in response to persistent non-compliance among operators. "Operators have consistently failed to adhere to wastewater treatment standards, caused damage to public roads, and neglected to maintain proper premises. "They will now be subject to increased scrutiny, including mandatory worker registration and infrastructure inspections," he said after chairing its full council meeting at Menara MBJB today. He warned that failure to comply could result in licence suspension or cancellation under existing laws and regulations. The move follows public backlash over a car wash outlet in Taman Abad that allegedly prioritised Singapore-registered vehicles while turning away local customers. A viral post last week claimed that foreign workers at the outlet had refused to service Malaysian cars, citing "full bookings from Singaporean clients". In response, Johor Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor instructed all local councils to take firm action against outlets that exclusively served foreigners, calling such practices unacceptable and grounds for licence termination. Haffiz said the city council's enforcement officers had conducted checks but found no formal complaints lodged, and the claims remained unsubstantiated. "We are monitoring the situation closely. If such discriminatory practices are confirmed, we will revoke the licence," he said, adding that premium 'water wax' services, priced from RM40, were being marketed primarily to Singaporean customers. Earlier, the New Straits Times reported that some outlets charged up to RM80 for "water wax" treatments. There are currently 543 licensed car wash outlets operating under the city council's jurisdiction. Last year, 53 unlicensed centres were shut down. As of June this year, a further 33 illegal operators have been identified and are being dealt with.

LBS POWERS KWASA DAMANSARA GROWTH
LBS POWERS KWASA DAMANSARA GROWTH

The Star

time39 minutes ago

  • The Star

LBS POWERS KWASA DAMANSARA GROWTH

KUALA LUMPUR: Kwasa Land Sdn Bhd (KLSB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), through its group of subsidiaries, has entered into a Development Rights Agreement (DRA) with LBS Bina Group Bhd, a Malaysian property developer guided by people-first values, via its subsidiary, LBS Kwasa Damansara Sdn Bhd. Under the DRA, LBS Kwasa Damansara has been granted exclusive rights to progressively develop 11 parcels of prime freehold land, totalling 77.83ha (192.32 acres), within the thriving Kwasa Damansara township in the Petaling district of Selangor. The gross development value of the project is estimated at approximately RM8.3bil, representing a strategic investment by LBS into one of Klang Valley's most anticipated future-ready townships. The proposed development located in the 'PJ West' area of Kwasa Damansara is set to feature 2,922 residential units, comprising a balanced mix of low- and mid-rise condominiums as well as landed homes, tailored to meet a wide spectrum of market needs and lifestyle aspirations. Supporting infrastructure and amenities will be integrated in line with approved master plans, prioritising connectivity, liveability and sustainability. The development will be executed in phases over a 14-year period. The RM1.216bil development rights, largely representing the total land cost of the project, reflects the long-term investment potential of the Kwasa Damansara township. Strategically located, it is poised to emerge as one of Klang Valley's leading sustainable and future-proof townships. It marks a significant milestone in both LBS' growth trajectory and the continued transformation of Kwasa Damansara – a master-planned, 913.4ha (2,257-acre) township positioned as Greater Kuala Lumpur's new northern growth corridor. Hock San (seventh from left), together with Adenan (beside Hock San), posing for a group photo with senior representatives from both companies. Kwasa Damansara is envisioned as a vibrant, transit-oriented and green township featuring a comprehensive mix of residential, commercial, institutional and recreational components. 'We are pleased to partner with LBS, a developer with a proven track record in delivering quality and community-focused developments. This collaboration marks a progressive step forward in realising the vision of Kwasa Damansara as a sustainable and inclusive township that caters to Malaysia's growing urban population,' said Kwasa Land managing director Datuk Adenan Md Yusof. 'With its integrated design and strategic connectivity – including access to multiple MRT stations – we believe this project will significantly contribute to the township's appeal and long-term value.'. LBS group executive chairman Tan Sri Ir Dr Lim Hock San said, 'This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to deliver well-connected and high-quality residential communities that prioritise long-term liveability. 'Drawing on our strong track record and extensive experience in township development, we are committed to maximising the value of this prime land by delivering a sustainable, high-quality, and future-ready neighbourhood that meets the evolving needs of modern homebuyers. 'Moving forward, this strategic development is expected to strengthen the group's financial performance and position, while diversifying our portfolio with high-value, premium offerings.' Lim highlighted that this opportunity aligns seamlessly with the group's 8 x 8 Strategy, propelling LBS to new heights in the property development industry, through its commitment to innovation, sustainability and community-centric living. PJ West will also be home to the proposed Kwasa Community Forest, a lush green sanctuary nestled atop the township's highest point. Serving as the township's green lung, this forest will be seamlessly connected to surrounding development plots through a network of green corridors, providing multiple access points for residents. The park is envisioned to include scenic lookout points, serene forest walks, dedicated mountain biking trails, a boardwalk, an open-air amphitheatre, and a host of other recreational features designed to promote outdoor living and community engagement. Strategically located near mature neighbourhoods such as Kota Damansara, Tropicana, Subang Bestari and Sungai Buloh, the site enjoys proximity to retail, dining and commercial hubs. Future residents will benefit from excellent connectivity via two MRT stations linked to the Putrajaya and Kajang lines and accessibility through major highways including the North Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), Guthrie Corridor Expressway (GCE) and Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway (DASH). It is also just 4km from the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang. Destined to become a model city for business, living and leisure, Kwasa Damansara will offer over 101.2ha (250 acres) of surrounding green spaces encompassing nine parks and complemented by more than 25km of cycling and walking trails. The township will also host 25,000 new housing units - including 10,000 affordable housing and land designated for 15 new schools. To date, Kwasa Land has entered into collaboration agreements with 17 development partners, granting them development rights over approximately 394ha (973 acres) within the township. These projects account for roughly 73% of the total 539ha (1,331 acres) of saleable land in Kwasa Damansara and represent a combined Gross Development Value of over RM40bil.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store