Petronas Twin Towers

Overview

The Petronas Twin Towers soar 452 metres above Kuala Lumpur's skyline, holding the title of world's tallest twin structures since their completion in 1998. Designed by Argentine-American architect César Pelli, the towers are clad in 65,000 square metres of stainless steel and glass and anchor the KLCC development.

Highlights

• Skybridge: A 58-metre double-decker bridge at the 41st–42nd floors (170 m), offering vertiginous views between the towers.
• Observation Deck: The 86th-floor deck at 370 metres provides 360° panoramas reaching the Titiwangsa range on clear days.
• Islamic geometry: The floor plan is based on an eight-pointed star (Rub el Hizb), reflecting Malaysia's Islamic heritage.

History

Commissioned by Petronas, Malaysia's national oil company, the towers were built simultaneously by separate contractors—one Korean, one Japanese—in a celebrated construction race. They were the world's tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004.

Visitor Tips

• Book online: Timed tickets sell out days ahead; book at petronastwintowers.com.my.
• Morning light: The east-facing observation deck is best before noon.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.