Medan Pasar set for climate-resilient revamp under KL ‘sponge city’ push, says Hannah Yeoh

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13 — The historic Medan Pasar in downtown Kuala Lumpur is set for a rejuvenation project aimed at improving rainwater management, public accessibility and preserving its heritage identity, according to the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), Hannah Yeoh. This initiative, a collaboration between Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and Yayasan Creador, will transform the public space into an open, inclusive, and welcoming community hub.

Yeoh emphasized that the project embodies Nature-based Solutions, focusing on enhanced rainwater management. It is part of a broader strategy to build a more climate-resilient Kuala Lumpur, known as a Sponge City, better equipped to handle heavy rainfall and climate change. The revamp goes beyond mere aesthetics, aiming to create a public space that serves residents better, bolsters community spirit, and enhances the city's livability.

Medan Pasar, originally known as Old Market Square, has been a cornerstone of Kuala Lumpur since its inception as one of the city’s earliest commercial centers. Its iconic clock tower, erected in 1937 to celebrate King George VI's coronation, remains a symbol of the area. Designated as a key site within the Warisan KL initiative, Medan Pasar embodies the national urban rejuvenation effort to revive Kuala Lumpur’s historic core through heritage and culture.

Yayasan Creador, which has previously contributed to heritage-linked projects in Medan Pasar, such as revamping an old shophouse, will play a pivotal role in this transformation. The project aligns with DBKL’s broader vision of turning Kuala Lumpur into a “sponge city,” an urban model designed to absorb rainwater efficiently, mitigate flood risks, and manage rising temperatures.