Merdeka Circle upgraded to an iconic landmark
LABUAN: The dilapidated Merdeka Circle in downtown Labuan is being upgraded into an iconic landmark that will transform the area into a must-visit tourist spot.
Labuan Corporation Chief Executive Officer Rithuan Ismail said the renovation project was part of his efforts to beautify the duty-free island.
He said the Bulatan Merdeka redesign project was first implemented in the 1970s, followed by the 1980s and the last time around the 1990s.
“We (Labuan Corporation) will do our best to beautify our island… we need close cooperation from the community to support this project.
“Since this project takes about 10 months to complete, we hope that road users will be careful when passing through the Bulatan Merdeka area,” he told Bernama .
Rithuan said the fountain at Merdeka Circle will be improved with a more attractive structure along with a contemporary and modern design, which reflects Labuan’s identity as a ‘maritime city’.
He said the project had a maritime concept with the construction of an embankment surrounded by artificial seaweed and organized landscaping.
“This new design symbolizes the position of Labuan which is surrounded by the ocean and a cluster of islands and the project features an abstract element of coral as the main component of the project.
“The entire Merdeka Circle area will be illuminated to make it a lively place in the middle of Labuan city,” he said.
According to Rithuan, the project which started on Feb 6 is expected to be fully completed on Dec 31 this year.
