Developer seeks approval for 61-storey tower project near TNB HQ, Pantai Hospital [WATCH]

KUALA LUMPUR: A private developer is seeking approval for a 61-storey mixed-use tower project in Kuala Lumpur's upscale Bukit Pantai enclave, a proposal that could add nearly 1,500 serviced apartment units to one of the capital's more densely developed urban corridors.

The developer, believed to be Akisama Corp Sdn Bhd, has submitted a planning application for the project on Lots 481838 and 50296 along Jalan Bukit Pantai, according to a notice circulating on social media inviting feedback from the public on the proposed development.

The site is located adjacent to the headquarters (HQ) of Tenaga Nasional Berhad and opposite Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, placing the proposed development within an established residential and institutional area in Bangsar-Bukit Pantai. If completed, the building could rank among the taller structures in the neighbourhood.

The notice states that registered neighbouring land owners have until May 30 to submit their views in writing to Kuala Lumpur City Hall's City Planning Department.

Plans call for two serviced apartment towers comprising 1,494 units, alongside a retail podium with 64 shop lots. The proposal also includes a pedestrian bridge and green open space.

When contacted this morning, a representative from Akisama said she would get an official from the company to be in touch with Business Times regarding the matter.

According to Akisama Group's website, the company was established in 1979 as a construction and piling firm before expanding into property development in the Klang Valley by 1996.

Tan Sri Bernard Chang Koon Wah and Datuk Freddy Tan Eng Beng are listed as the group's managing directors.

Meanwhile, given the scale of the development and its location along Jalan Bukit Pantai — a route frequently used by hospital visitors, healthcare personnel, office workers and residents — the project may prompt questions from nearby stakeholders about potential traffic implications and infrastructure capacity.

The proposed site's proximity to Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, whose access routes are located nearby, could also draw attention to whether additional traffic management measures may be required should the project proceed, particularly during peak travel periods. Any assessment of traffic impact would typically be addressed through planning and technical review processes.

The proposal reflects continued developer interest in high-density residential projects in the Klang Valley, even as concerns over infrastructure strain and housing supply persist in some parts of Kuala Lumpur.

The application marks the latest stage for a parcel that has been under development consideration for several years. Local reports in 2023 said Akisama had submitted a proposal to Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and received conditional approval for an earlier concept involving a taller configuration and a similar number of residential units.

Land records reviewed at the time reportedly showed Lot 481838, a leasehold parcel with 96 years remaining, was registered under Akisama in May 2021. The title was reported to stipulate residential use, subject to conditions including prior approval from the Federal Land Commission Committee for any transfer, mortgage or charge.

Akisama is associated with large-scale residential developments, including Parklane OUG and Razak City Residences in Kuala Lumpur.