Plaza Merdeka to be Kuching’s new landmark

Plaza Merdeka to be Kuching’s new landmark

By JACK WONG

RM270mil Times Metropolitan project includes mall and hotel

KUCHING: Times Metropolitan Sdn Bhd is developing the proposed RM270mil Plaza Merdeka project in the heart of the city.

An integrated shopping mall and a 290-room boutique business hotel development, the project is part of a revitalisation programme for the city’s landmark historic district.

Standing on the project site now is an abandoned row of dilapidated shophouses, a multi-million ringgit commercial complex called The Chambers, which was never occupied, and the vacant Treasury Building.

Times Metropolitan managing director Steve Ng said The Chambers and former Treasury Building would be demolished to make way for Plaza Merdeka, which is expected to be ready in mid-2010.

Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud is expected to launch the joint-venture project with Sarawak Inc, the state government’s investment arm, on May 8.


Steve Ng (left) and Times Metropolitan director Aw Tai Hui showing an artist’s impression of Plaza Merdeka
Ng said the shopping mall would have a built-up area of 820,000 sq ft and a net lettable area of 340,000 sq ft. Some 820 underground parking lots will be provided.

The developer will retain ownership of some 80% of the net lettable space and sell the balance to retailers and investors.

“The distinctive feature of the mall will be its huge 9,000-sq ft four-storey garden podium for promotions and exhibitions.

“There will be a department store, supermarket, coffeeshops as well as a food court,” Ng told StarBiz.

He said the eight-storey international standard hotel would sit on the shopping mall.

According to Ng, the hotel will feature designer interiors with state-of-the-art connectivity for business and tourist travellers.

Plaza Merdeka is designed by leading Filipino architect Yolanda David Reyes.

Ng said an underground tunnel, costing about RM4mil, would be built to link Plaza Merdeka with Jalan Gambier where the existing Kuching Waterfront would be extended.

“The modern and state-of-the-art shopping mall and hotel development within a classical building facade will add life and vibrancy to the city’s historical district,” he added.