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PETALING JAYA (Jan 21): The Arika Kubang Kerian development in Kota Bharu, set to be the tallest building in Kelantan, is expected to be completed by end-2026.
Malvest Group managing director Tan Kian Boon JP said the main structure has reached the 42nd floor and is now at the roof topping-out stage.
“Construction works are progressing actively, and the current progress is in line with the original planning. We are confident that this project can be fully completed in the fourth quarter of 2026,” he said in a press statement.
He added that Arika is being built with a focus on quality and sustainability, using high-standard construction materials.
The project is designed with green indicators in mind and aims to meet the Quality Assessment System in Construction (QLASSIC) standards set by the Construction Industry Development Board of Malaysia (CIDB), as well as achieving Green Building Index (GBI) certification.
“We are targeting the Arika development, which will be the tallest high-rise building in Kelantan, to obtain GBI certification, with a minimum QLASSIC standard of 80% as a guarantee of construction quality,” he said.
Tan said the project is strategically located near Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Hospital Pakar USM (HPUSM), making it suitable for residential, medical, and long-term investment purposes.
He added that the mixed-use development includes residential units and commercial spaces, along with more than 45 facilities, such as green landscaping, an infinity swimming pool, gymnasium, badminton and pickleball courts, a library, recreational areas, and a shuttle bus service connecting Arika to the USM campus.
On its design, Tan said Arika combines modern urban architecture with Islamic and Malay elements, while highlighting energy efficiency and sustainability.
“Among the unique features of this project is the tallest LED gateway, which serves as a landmark, as well as a layered facilities layout with themed gardens, sports areas, and an infinity pool.
“As a 42-storey integrated development anchored by a university and a hospital, Arika is designed to meet the needs of high-intensity user groups such as lecturers, students, medical professionals, and patients’ families,” he said.
He added that continued demand from the education and medical sectors also makes Arika a stable investment, resilient to economic cycles and suitable for owner-occupation or rental.
On sustainability and technology, Tan said Arika integrates rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, solar power, and extensive green spaces. The development also has smart security systems and high-tech facilities management.
“For long-term management, we will appoint a professional property management company, including collaboration with Maplehome to provide hotel-standard short-term accommodation services,” he said.
Tan also revealed that 70% of the 668 units have been sold, and 26 premium commercial lots are open for lease or sale.
The topping-out ceremony recently was attended by Tan, Kota Bharu Municipal Council planning and landscape director Tpr Dr Hasnina Hassan, Sentosa Jaya Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Razali Daud, and YanJian Group Construction Malaysia director Wang Min.
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