The formidable two-generation Triterra team – Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Michael Yam and Chief Executive Officer Christopher Lim – share their vision for The MET Corporate Towers.
BY YVONNE YOONG
Not all workspaces are created equal. And in fact, not all possess seemingly unfair advantages as is the case when it comes to The MET Corporate Towers (The MET) which encapsulates the vision of how and what the blueprint for workspaces of the future could be like.
Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities with even an inclusion of the 10-metre lobby area with a self-playing piano and ambience that feel more like a hotel than a conventional workspace – by design, The MET is aligned with the ethos of pivoting businesses to the next level by effectively utilising space design strategically, innovatively and creatively for “business unusual”.
Conceptualised from the idea of identifying future trends for the workspace since the only constant in life is change, and not to do so would be unwise – now, more than ever – in an ever-evolving world that is constantly shifting like the sands of time, a refreshed interpretation of workspaces of the future is indeed crucial.
With time swiftly shifting and sifting everything and anything in sight – just as gold is separated from the dross – no industry is spared, including that of the traditional workspace. And, the adage pointing to the survival of the fittest, remains relevant – with being alert and vigilant to spot upcoming trends and needs being even more crucial than ever in an age that is increasingly competitive and complex.
Displaying an acute understanding ahead of the times – dynamic developer duo Datuk Seri Michael Yam, Chairman of Triterra and Christopher Lim, Chief Executive Officer of Triterra – have visionarily managed to encapsulate the future trend of the workspace. Both concur that as Kuala Lumpur’s office landscape evolves, tenants are increasingly prioritising “modern, sustainable and experience-driven workspaces”.
“Despite overall office vacancy rates in Greater KL being elevated at times, there is clear evidence of ‘flight-to-quality demand’ – where newer, premium developments continue to outperform older stock – particularly in integrated ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance)-aligned environments,” Datuk Seri Yam told Paparazzi360.
The rising trend he reflects, shows demand for newer Grade-A buildings in KL City and the fringe areas which have continued to register strong net absorption, reflecting “sustained occupier-interest in quality workspaces.” And while once, Multinational Corporations (MNC) tended to be concentrated solely in the heart of
KL city, now, there seems to also be a shift away towards the more suburban areas, as witnessed in other Grade-A offices moving away from the heartbeat of the city. Datuk Seri Yam’s observation is astute based on his extensive experience as he explains that The MET – by design, represents a continuation of “purposeful development – and not only building on the legacy of Mont’Kiara itself.” After all, this upmarket precinct is one which he himself had helped shape decades earlier. And now, via The MET, this helps him to encapsulate a new vision reflecting Malaysia’s global aspirations.
Recognising the tremendous potential in KL Metropolis as a hub poised to attract MNCs and local enterprises, the time he believes, is ripe for a premium Grade-A strata workspace to cater to this rising demand. This has set the stage for the concept of The MET as a future-forward business address positioned for a world that values connectivity, quality and experience as much as it prioritises location.
The high tenant occupancy at The MET confirms his conviction and analysis of trends are accurate for the workspace which takes on a life of its own after work hours.
“We are humbled to share our milestone achievements, achieving 82% of occupancy within two years of vacant possession. The MET is providing tenants with an option of a new suburban location that meets their requirements for a Grade-A office space with a range of supporting amenities necessary for attracting talents,” observed Yam. A far cry from the early years whereby corporate office towers weren’t even in the equation.
“Our initial pitch and collaboration with Naza TTDI, the master developer of KL Metropolis was (for) a residential project. In fact, under the internal master plan, it was zoned for residential,” he shared.
“However, upon an in-depth research and market analysis, both for the neighbourhood and also the market as a whole, we noticed that there is a huge gap or corporate office needs that was under-served. Inspired by our findings, we then asked ourselves what’s the next concept for corporate offices and the rest is history,” he recollected.
A clear testament to the strength of its vision, The MET today counts the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) as its anchor occupier, alongside multinational names such as Siemens Malaysia, Siemens Healthineers, China Railway Engineering Corporation (CREC), LiveVibe and Chin Hin.
Recognised in market studies by JLL, The MET Corporate Towers stands as KL Metropolis’ first Grade A stratified corporate office development. At a time when premium office standards were largely confined to single-ownership towers, The MET introduced multinational-grade specifications within a strata-titled format — addressing a critical gap for SMEs and growing enterprises seeking ownership, prestige and long-term value within a master-planned international district.
Complementing its strong corporate presence, its anchor retailers include Indonesia’s HWG Group, Colony Group, The Olive Tree Group, Niko Neko, Fowlboys, Lacher Patisseries, OR Gelato and Fiancée — reinforcing its position as an integrated business and lifestyle destination. “From %Arabica and Brotani to Lacher Patisserie and JHOL – these aren’t just tenants; they’re placemaking anchors. They activate the retail levels, encourage movement and social interaction, and attract not just our office tenants, but people from the surrounding KL Metropolis area and the surrounding neighbourhood,” shared Lim.
“And, the start, we never intended The MET to be just another Grade-A office development. Our vision was to create a destination, an integrated lifestyle and work eco-system. The curated F&B offerings are a central part of that. We’ve brought in brands that reflect quality, identity, and community. We can’t deny that the environment have a huge impact on us.
“And, from the onset, we would to create a warm inclusive environment for our business community. We thought that it will be cool for the community to revisit the building during after office hours and weekends with their loved ones and friends having a different feel to the day time work experience. It is from here we start to curate to where we are today. Inclusiveness and Community are our key focus as after all, it is for them that we are here for.”
Its lifestyle office tenant mix meanwhile include an interesting repertoire such as The Scalp Sanctuary, Ivory Bridal, MRC Aesthetic Clinic, New Golf and Fix@15 Physio.
These partnerships underscore the project’s status as a premier choice extending beyond mere office spaces for businesses with a community seeking an environment that empowers success and fosters innovation, growth and long-term success.
With its strategic location, forward-thinking design and tenant-focused solutions, The MET, he emphasised, is more than just a corporate address and represents a worthy benchmark for the future workspace.
Positioned in a sweet spot in the upscale neighbourhood, The MET makes a striking and worthy addition to Malaysia’s commercial skyline. The glistening tower stands proud with its innovative blend of functionality, lifestyle integration backed by efficient tenancy management.
Besides redefining the look and feel of corporate spaces, this Grade-A Strata Office in KL Metropolis unapologetically leads the way in Work-Leisure integration. Lim shares that when the concept was first conceived, the idea wasn’t simply to build an office building.
Instead, the idea was to “reimagine what a corporate space could be for Malaysia’s next generation of businesses”. In his mind’s eye, he imagined the “amalgamation of strategic location, community, and ‘future-ready’ design” into the orchestra of offerings. Hence, he observes that “the genesis” of The MET came from a deep observation of how workplaces are “evolving” as corporate environments need to go beyond “boxed offices”.
Lim concurs that “by blending functionality, elegance, and innovation”, The MET challenges convention on what is achievable for a modern corporate environment while addressing the demand gap between “traditional office supply in the market struggling to meet the expectations of global corporates and forward-thinking tenants”.
Together, they envisioned The MET not just as a building but as a benchmark for the “New Business Class” — a place where work, lifestyle, community and culture intersect, setting a higher standard for corporate environments in Malaysia. This is the theme that underpins its mantra – congregating diverse businesses and varied human experiences under one roof.
The MET’s flexible floor sizes – from smaller suites ideal for start-ups to large built-up areas for major tenants reflect this broad “flight-to-quality” strategy which reinforces the idea that not all office spaces are created equal. Its distinctive “unfair advantage” after all include A-list facilities, imaginatively designed workspaces, retail, F&B (food & beverage) and cafes complemented by specification facilities, flexible layouts, ESG features and a community-centric ethos espousing a “3RD SPACE™” concept.
The Trilogy & 3RD SPACE™ of Triterra
The realisation of the dream was fuelled by a strategic partnership with Naza TTDI. Integral to this partnership framework was Daniel Lim, Deputy Chairman of Triterra, who played a pivotal role in steering development strategy and ensuring alignment between master planning ambitions and market realities. His involvement strengthened the project’s commercial discipline while preserving its visionary intent. Lim shares that the idea for The MET went beyond mere development economics
Strategically located within the prestigious Mont’ Kiara enclave, its uniquely positioned location serves as a nexus for global and regional business activities. Situated in proximity to the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), and the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), the development offers significant and unparalleled access to key economic hubs.
“It was about shaping the emerging KL Metropolis masterplan into a destination for commerce, trade and community,” said Datuk Seri Michael Yam, Chairman of Triterra. “In line with our philosophy as a next-generation developer, we believe integration is key.”
Strategically positioned within KL Metropolis’ Commercial, Legal, Trade and International Exposition hub, The MET Corporate Towers was envisioned as a catalyst — bringing together businesses from SMEs to MNCs across the established trinity of Mont’ Kiara, Sri Hartamas and Bukit Tunku.
Datuk Sr Paul Khong, Group Managing Director and Head of Savills Malaysia, echoed this sentiment, noting that the district’s proximity to Mont’ Kiara places it at the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s evolving International Trade and Exhibition precinct — an ideal setting for a flagship corporate development.
Brian Koh of Nawawi Tie Leung Property Consultants Sdn Bhd concurred, adding that The MET addresses a clear niche in the market. “It offers tenants a compelling suburban alternative that meets the expectations of a Grade-A office environment, complete with the supporting amenities necessary to attract and retain talent,” he said.
The rising trend points to changing demand for newer Grade-A buildings in KL City and the fringe areas which have continued to register strong net absorption, reflecting “sustained occupier-interest in quality workspaces.” And while once, Multinational Corporations (MNC) tended to be concentrated solely in the heart of KL city, now, there seems to also be a shift away towards the more suburban areas, as witnessed in other Grade-A offices moving away from the heartbeat of the city.
Data analytics reveal that the strata office supply in Malaysia is approximately 8% of the total commercial property market. In comparison, Singapore has 16% strata offices. From this figure, an MNC-focus reveal more strata office supply than Malaysia which has a base of SMEs in which they see an opportunity. Further in-depth study into the location revealed approximately 2m sq ft of strata recording approximately 80% occupancy whereby the last completed office building was back in 2014. “This is where we felt that there is a gap and another opportunity to introduce something that is closer to the future,” quipped Lim.
THRIVING IN THE “3RD SPACE™”
Likening The MET to “The Trinity suburbs of Mont Kiara-Dutamas-Segambut (North Kiara)” – the location itself is a priceless rare gem which Lim said is often overlooked as a mega suburb due to the lack of integration between the three neighbouring suburbs. In fact, the beauty of this trilogy being situated and backed by in a diverse neighbourhood with over 50 nationalities – shows The MET espousing a setting that encourages collaboration and innovation among professionals from around the world with its “3RD SPACE™” concept.
“The 3RD SPACE™” serves startups, SMEs, MNCs and government entities alike with flexible layouts and shared zones that encourage collaboration and social interaction rather than isolated workspaces,” shared Lim recognising that businesses now do not just thrive inside an office or at home. Instead, they perform well in shared spaces and common areas where interaction happens where the “3RD SPACE™” serves as “an activation platform” for The The MET Corporate Towers’ communal experience.
The “3RD SPACE™” concept reimagines the traditional workspace by “seamlessly integrating work, leisure, and lifestyle elements”. Its impressive culinary directory features renowned outlets such as %Arabica, Lacher Patisserie, Fiancée, Filipo, Malaysia Food Garden, OR Gelato, Brotani, and SOL – a rooftop lounge on Level 40.
Building upon the “3RD SPACE™” concept, say hello to Filipó, a menu that flirts between Italian indulgence and Japanese precision, turning The MET into a destination for the discerning and the deliciously curious.
With its sophisticated ambiance, versatile hosting spaces, Filipo redefines professional dining by offering brands a pop-up venue space, perfect for meetings, events, or networking over an exceptional meal.
In addition to these offerings, the Malaysiana Food Garden was conceptualised as a dynamic dining space and event venue – serving as a lively food court during the day and transforming into an accessible venue for events in the evenings while catering to a diverse range of consumers while offering tenants and visitors a plethora of choices – with JHOL, Niko Neko, and H Bar KL.
This concept also features premium facilities collaboration like a state-of-the-art gym by Anytime Fitness, a business theatre with a 70-seat auditorium, and a host of versatile event spaces on Level 9, designed to command stunning views and elevate experiences for gatherings and functions. There is also the luxurious co-working hub – “The MET Club by Colony” which is located on Level 10 which caters to start-ups, solo entrepreneurs and small teams. Thoughtfully designed green landscapes and hospitality-inspired amenities redefine work-life balance while establishing The MET as a hub for dynamic, inspiring experiences beyond the traditional workplace. Another key innovation is its emphasis on flexibility and tenant-centric management.
Offering office layouts that range from compact spaces ideal for start-ups to expansive whole-floor offices for larger corporations, the flexible design scheme allows tenants to scale their operations seamlessly without the need to relocate.
“Corporate environments should be integrated eco-systems where work, community and experience converge,” stressed Lim of this insight which grew from a broader philosophy of integration.
“It’s all part of our “3RD SPACE™” philosophy transforming corporate towers into human-centric environments where people can connect, recharge and feel inspired. Whether it’s a quick coffee meeting, a team lunch, or a weekend community event, these outlets extend the function of the building beyond the traditional 9-to-5. “The result? Higher tenant satisfaction, stronger brand association, and a clear differentiation from other commercial spaces. We believe a building should serve both business needs and human experiences and that’s exactly what our F&B eco system delivers.”
BENEFITTING ALL STAKEHOLDERS
And, while Tower A provides a diverse selection of options across its low, mid, and high floors, the introduction of Stratified-Tenancy-Management, pioneered by Trilink Real Estate, has revolutionised the landlord-tenant relationship. This is achieved by enhancing operational efficiency and reducing vacancies besides also “minimising downtime” via a centralised management approach that benefits all stakeholders.
The MET has launched Trek Rides, a Demand Responsive Transit (DRT) service as part of Triterra’s commitment to community initiative aimed at simplifying commuting for tenants and visitors. This innovative solution underscores Triterra’s commitment to convenience and accessibility while ensuring seamless connectivity within the development’s surrounding areas.
Extending beyond the boundaries of the corporate towers, the day’s work is never done with Triterra actively engaging with local councils, community leaders and stakeholders to drive continuous improvement in the surrounding environment. After work hours to take on a new life of their own.
From beautifying pavements and enhancing pedestrian safety to optimising traffic flow and organising community events, these initiatives reflect ongoing dedication to creating a thriving neighbourhood that benefits both its occupants and the larger Mont’ Kiara neighbourhood and community at large.
THE DIVINE IN THE FUTURISTIC DETAILS
The grand lobby of The MET features impressive 10-meter-high ceilings, creating a sense of grandeur and sophistication complemented by a chandelier. A self-playing piano ushers in an elegant exudes the warmth and inviting atmosphere akin to a hotel lobby for tenants and visitors alike reflecting its premier business destination.
The Glassbox at The MET also redefines versatility in the event spaces with a 70-seat auditorium designed for business presentations and intimate functions. The rooftop area comprising an adaptable open-air venue ideal for gatherings, networking events, or celebrations, all set against the picturesque backdrop of KL Metropolis also impresses. Stepping inside The Glassbox, the function hall transforms events via a seamless blend of modern design, ample natural light, and sweeping views of KL Metropolis. This versatile space also provides an elegant setting perfect for gatherings ranging from corporate functions to intimate celebrations.
Malaysian Food Garden at The MET also offers a refreshing take on the food court concept with its open-air design, scenic views, and diverse selection of local and international cuisines. Far from the typical basement food courts, this vibrant communal hub offers affordable meals in a welcoming atmosphere for casual meet ups or celebrations.
The MET, conceived as a “product of both market insight and strategic timing serves to bridge the gap of a mismatch between supply and occupier demand — not just in volume but in quality and sustainability standards.
This observation mirrors broader market dynamics where new, high quality offices continue to attract tenants, even amid cyclical vacancy pressures in older assets.
“Many commercial buildings tick the boxes of functionality but very few fulfil the future-forward expectations of both tenants and owners. The MET fills that void. It answers the growing demand for well-connected, sustainable, and strata-owned Grade-A offices in emerging hubs like KL Metropolis,” asserted Lim. “We’ve designed it to support growth from SMEs to MNCs even to government bodies with infrastructure that supports flexibility, sustainability, and placemaking. It’s a corporate tower, yes, but with a soul. Beyond leadership and market foresight, The MET’s success is shared. It stands today because of the unwavering belief of The MET Owners Club (TMOCs), the dedication of the Dream Team, the Triterra family, and the collective trust of partners and stakeholders who chose to build this vision together.” he summed.
USPs of The MET
- First Grade-A Stratified Office in KL Metropolis The MET stands out as the first Grade A strata office development in the KL Metropolis precinct, fulfilling a niche for premium, ownership oriented office space outside the traditional city centre. It offers a rare opportunity for businesses and investors to own or occupy high-quality office suites in a rapidly emerging international business district.
- Strategic Location in a Future Business Hub Located in KL Metropolis near Mont’ Kiara, the towers benefit from proximity to major economic anchors including the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), MATRADE, and MITI. This enhances appeal to multinational corporations, trade bodies, and regional HQs seeking connectivity to key decision-making centres.
- Flexible Workplace Solutions The MET’s design supports flexible tenancy and ownership models, with office sizes ranging from compact suites to large floor plates (818 sqft – 16,000 sqft). It can accommodate startups, SMEs, and large enterprises alike, enabling businesses to scale without relocation — a feature not common in many older Grade A towers.
- Community & Experience Driven Design Beyond traditional office functions, The MET integrates the 3RD SPACE™” activation, curated retail, F&B outlets, and event spaces that transform it into a vibrant, integrated workplace ecosystem. This elevates worker experience and makes the building a destination where business and lifestyle converge.
- ESG & Future-Ready Features Designed with sustainability in mind, the towers include features such as energy efficient glass façades and other green interventions aligned with evolving global workplace expectations—an important differentiator in today’s market. • Prestige & Recognition Asia Recognition Award wins and high occupancy levels underscore its market acceptance and credibility as a landmark corporate address that meets both investor and tenant expectations.
