KLCC Park was Burle Marx’s sole undertaking in Asia. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
THREE decades after his death, the legacy and vision of renowned Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx lives on at the KLCC Park in Kuala Lumpur, which he designed.
The space, which was opened in 1998, turned out to be his sole professional undertaking in Asia.
He visited Malaysia twice for inspiration.
His story is told in A Brazilian in Kuala Lumpur – a limited edition book published by the Brazil Embassy and distributed to local authorities.
It features four texts including one by Brazil Ambassador Ary Norton de Murat Quintella, two by former collaborators of Burle Marx and some 100 images that have never been published before.
Speaking during the launch at Petronas Twin Towers, Quintella said the book reflected the connection between Brazil and Malaysia.
He said it gave a detailed account of Burle Marx’s creative process and delved into his inspiration for the park.
“Burle Marx travelled extensively including to Negri Sembilan and Melaka, and this is reflected in his design of the park.
“He used flower species which are native to South-East Asia and his influence can be seen clearly in the landscape,” he said.
KLCC Holdings Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Md Shah Mahmood said the park had undergone various upgrades over the years.
KLCC Park was Burle Marx’s sole undertaking in Asia. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
Spanning 23.5ha, it consists of 1,700 trees with some 200 closed-circuit television cameras for enhanced security.
“We have maintained the original layout but have incorporated the use of technology for improved security and safety,” said Md Shah.
The park, he added, was of great significance to Malaysians, as it served as a social spot for communities from diverse backgrounds.
Separately, Quintella said Brazil looked forward to deepening relations with Malaysia and enhancing cooperation on trade, health and environmental matters.
He said diplomatic efforts had been intensified after national borders were reopened and Covid-19 restrictions were lifted.
He said Malaysia was Brazil’s 14th most important export destination, ahead of its South-East Asia neighbours like Indonesia and Vietnam.
During the launch, guests were taken to visit the KLCC SkyBridge on Level 42 to observe the park below.
Also present were Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, PETRONAS Upstream Strategic Communications general manager Aimy Zairin Mohamed and Sunway Education Group chief executive officer Prof Datuk Dr Elizabeth Lee.
