Malaysia’s skyline is set for another transformation as KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd (KLCCH) charts an ambitious path under its new CEO, Datuk Mohd Salem Kailany. From his vantage point in the Petronas Twin Towers, Salem envisions Bandar Malaysia—a sprawling 486-acre megaproject—as the nation’s next landmark, joining the ranks of KLCC and Putrajaya. With decades of real estate expertise, Salem is steering the company toward strategic expansions while preserving the value of its existing assets, including prime commercial and retail spaces that dominate Kuala Lumpur’s financial district.
At the heart of KLCCH’s strategy is the Bandar Malaysia development, a long-term project expected to take half a century to complete. Salem emphasizes meticulous planning to ensure the project meets market demands while fostering job creation and sustainable living. Meanwhile, the company is enhancing its retail footprint with Ombak KLCC, a transit-oriented lifestyle hub set to open later this year. Connected to the MRT network, Ombak will complement Suria KLCC by targeting niche retail segments and immersive experiences, further solidifying the precinct’s appeal.
KLCCH’s financial performance remains robust, with its stapled group—KLCCP Stapled Group—posting record revenues of RM1.7 billion in 2024. The hospitality sector led growth, with Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur achieving unprecedented room rates and banquet revenues. Retail assets like Suria KLCC also thrived, boasting 99% occupancy and a refreshed tenant mix featuring luxury and first-to-market brands. Salem attributes this resilience to the group’s diversified portfolio and long-term leases with anchor tenants such as Petronas.
Beyond Kuala Lumpur, Salem is revitalizing Putrajaya as a premium residential and administrative hub. Projects like Terra, a mixed-use lakeside development, have seen strong demand, with over 80% of units sold shortly after launch. Future plans include transit-oriented developments and affordable housing schemes, aligning with government initiatives. Salem’s approach blends data-driven decisions with an intuitive understanding of evolving buyer preferences—whether in residential layouts or office designs. As Malaysia prepares for major events like the 2025 ASEAN Summit, KLCCH is poised to capitalize on growth opportunities while maintaining its legacy as a leader in iconic urban developments.