Twin Tower, Petronas, Malaysia. Source: expedia.co.id

The Petronas Towers, officially known as the Petronas Twin Towers, are among Kuala Lumpur's and Malaysia's most recognizable landmarks. These twin towers stand side by side, each soaring to a height of approximately 451.9 meters (1,483 feet) above ground level. The Petronas Towers rise to a height of 88 stories above ground level and extend 5 stories below ground level. They span an area of 395,000 square meters. Construction began in 1992 and was completed in 1998, with their official inauguration on August 31, 1999, coinciding with Malaysia's 42nd Independence Day. Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, the Prime Minister at that time, presided over the inauguration, underscoring the towers' significance as symbols of Malaysia's progress in architecture and technology.

 Tun Mahathir Mohamad, Prime Minister of Malaysia who officially inaugurated the twin towers. Source: malaysiaairlines.com

From 1998 to 2004, the Petronas Twin Towers held the distinction of being the tallest buildings in the world before being surpassed by the Burj Khalifa and Taipei 101. They remain the tallest twin skyscrapers globally from the 20th century. Situated prominently in Kuala Lumpur's Kuala Lumpur City Center (KLCC) on Jalan Ampang, the towers are divided into two parts with distinct functions.

Tower One houses the headquarters of Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas), Malaysia's national oil and gas company, along with its subsidiaries. Tower Two is leased to various international companies spanning different sectors, such as media and technology, including Al-Jazeera and Microsoft.

Meanwhile, there are fascinating aspects about the Petronas Towers that many people are unaware of. Here are some intriguing facts about the Petronas Tower:

1. Height: Upon its completion in 1998, the Petronas Tower became the tallest building in the world, surpassing Chicago's Sears Tower, with a structural height of approximately 451.9 meters (1,483 feet) from ground level to its pinnacle. While it has been surpassed by several other skyscrapers since, including the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Petronas Tower remains a visually stunning landmark in Malaysia and an unmistakable icon of the country.

Comparison of the Petronas Towers and Other Tall Buildings in the world. Source: Eluetheromania

2. Architectural Design: Designed by the Argentine-American architectural firm Cesar Pelli & Associates, the Petronas Towers feature a distinctive postmodernist architectural style characterized by the use of steel and glass. The design draws inspiration from cultural and Islamic motifs, evident in its geometric shapes.

3. Connecting Bridge: Spanning between Petronas Towers 1 and 2 is the Skybridge, situated 170 meters above ground level. This Skybridge holds the distinction of being the highest two-story bridge in the world connecting two skyscrapers.

The view from skybridge of Twin Tower. Source: klook.com

4. Engineering Excellence: The construction of the Petronas Towers incorporated advanced technology and techniques for its time. Moreover, the building prioritized safety and environmental sustainability by utilizing eco-friendly materials and enhancing energy efficiency.

5. Economic Impact: As an iconic landmark, the Petronas Towers have played a crucial role in attracting foreign investments to Malaysia, particularly in the tourism sector and local businesses, both domestically and internationally.

6. Global Recognition: Beyond being a symbol of Kuala Lumpur, the Petronas Towers have gained global recognition through their appearances in films, television, and other media. They often represent Kuala Lumpur in portrayals of modern urban landscapes worldwide.

In summary, the Petronas Towers transcend their status as mere skyscrapers in Malaysia; they symbolize technological advancement, architectural magnificence, and national pride for the Malaysian nation as a whole.

Read More:  Malaysia: An Affordable Travel Destination for All Budgets

References: 

https://choirexpress.co.id/id/blogs/sejarah-menara-kembar-petronas 

https://p2k.stekom.ac.id/ensiklopedia/Menara_Kembar_Petronas