In the middle of Kuala Lumpur, you'll find Merdeka 118 – a beautiful tower that soars high above the city, reaching for the clouds. While the monument is an architectural masterpiece representing national pride and architectural beauty, a deeper story must be told. Who's the mastermind behind this incredible landmark? What kind of leadership does bringing something this significant to life take?
Meet Ahmad Zulqarnain Onn, the President and Group Chief Executive of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB). He's the man behind one of the country's most ambitious projects.
Ahmad Zulqarnain Onn has this quiet confidence that shines through. He's very grounded, and that's why he's such a great leader. He's thoughtful and always thinking about the best way to move forward. After graduating from Harvard, he focused on the work rather than his title or how others perceived him. He communicates, makes decisions purposefully, and sets the tone by example—not ego.
So, what's it like to be in a room with him?
Those who work closely with Zulqarnain often mention the same things: his calm presence, his ability to simplify complexity, and the way he creates space for others to think and contribute. He doesn't command attention – he earns your respect.
But what's impressive is how he takes on the responsibility of leading such an iconic structure as Merdeka 118. He doesn't see it as just a building – he sees it as more than a landmark. It's a legacy. It symbolises progress, sure, discipline, collaboration and intent. He leads by example and, in doing so, raises the bar for everyone around him.
So, when we look up at Merdeka 118, what are we really seeing?
Sure, it's a symbol of progress, but it's also a reflection of the quiet, determined leadership behind it. It's a gentle reminder that sometimes, the strongest voices are the ones that don't shout.