A Sustainable Legacy Reimagined Through Innovation
8 May 2025 – Kuala Lumpur’s urban landscape is a dynamic tapestry of progress, and at its core stands Equatorial Plaza, a landmark development that seamlessly blends a rich history with a forward-thinking commitment to sustainability. Anchored by the prestigious EQ hotel, Equatorial Plaza has risen from the legacy of the former Hotel Equatorial Kuala Lumpur, transforming the iconic site into a modern hub that prioritizes environmental responsibility alongside exceptional experiences.
Upon arrival at the Equatorial Plaza entrance, visitors are greeted by the striking presence of a bronze sculpture positioned to the left. This artwork, entitled ‘Miza, Kika and Iwa’, is crafted by the award-winning sculptor Nizam Abdullah. 
As the accompanying images reveal, it embodies the timeless wisdom of the Three Wise Monkeys – “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” – drawing inspiration from the renowned 17th-century Japanese carving.
The Central to Equatorial Plaza is the EQ hotel, where a thoughtfully curated collection of art, gracefully placed throughout its spaces. Stepping into the lobby, one’s attention is immediately captured by the magnificent ‘Malaysian Life’, a restored copper tooling artwork of considerable size (915cm x 229cm), created by the artist Yan Sook Leong. Originally commissioned in 1974 for the Hotel Equatorial Kuala Lumpur, this significant piece graced the hotel’s main reception area for nearly four decades. Now, it takes pride of place in the lobby of EQ, serving as a tangible link to the storied past while enriching its refined contemporary ambience. 
Beyond this centrepiece, the collection also features ‘The Rise of the Phoenix’ by the renowned Malaysian street artist, Kenji Chai. Chai, celebrated for his distinctive character, Chaigo, and his dynamic murals across the globe, imbues his work with themes of resilience, identity, and transformation – values that resonate deeply with the Plaza’s own evolution. For this artwork, Chai was given creative freedom and chose to honour EQ’s transformation with a phoenix, a potent symbol of renewal and strength, ingeniously utilising 72 plates repurposed from the former hotel. This artwork is now displayed at Étoile.
Furthermore, the artistic narrative includes ‘Sorok-Sorok’, another captivating creation by the talented local artist, Nizam Abdullah. This sculpture beautifully depicts the joy and unity of Malaysia’s multi-ethnic society through the nostalgic lens of the game of hide and seek (“Sorok-Sorok” in Malay).
It’s worth noting that the materials employed in several of the aforementioned artworks are largely salvaged from the former hotel. This deliberate choice serves a dual purpose: it champions sustainability by minimising waste and, more importantly, it preserves the very spirit and essence of the long-standing Hotel Equatorial Kuala Lumpur within the fabric of the new building.
“We want people who enter Equatorial Plaza to feel a sense of warmth and welcome, and I firmly believe that art pieces possess a unique ability to foster that connection,” said Donald Lim, the Chief Executive Officer of Equatorial Group.
Equatorial Plaza stands as a prominent landmark in Kuala Lumpur, a testament to the successful marriage of heritage, refined living, and a dedication to sustainability. Anchored by the hotel and its remarkable collection of art, the development demonstrates that environmental responsibility and a prestigious address can indeed coexist harmoniously in the heart of a thriving city. Equatorial Plaza is more than just a location; it is a legacy reimagined for a sustainable future.
To discover more of the exceptional art pieces within Equatorial Plaza, we invite you to explore further.
