KUALA LUMPUR
THE CAPITAL OF MALAYSIA
History
Kuala Lumpur skyline at night
Malaysia's Dynamic Capital Affectionately Known as "KL". Young, Eclectic, Modern. A City of the Times. You'll Find it Lively, Buzzing with Vitality, a Gateway to a World of Action, Excitement and Discoveries.
Kuala Lumpur, the capital of the Federation of Malaysia, is centrally located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Covering an area of 243sq km (94 square miles), it lies approximately 35 km from the coast. Kuala Lumpur was conferred city status on February 1, 1972 and declared as a Federal Territory in 1974. The city began as a mining settlement in the late 1800s with the discovery of tin at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers. Although KL's tin trade has since declined, the growth of the city has remained unabated. Today, with a population of 1.8 million, it is the pulse of the nation. Kuala Lumpur leads the country's fast paced development in trade and commerce, banking and finance, manufacturing, transportation, information technology and tourism.
Getting to Kuala Lumpur is easy with over 40 international airlines, including Malaysia Airlines, serving the city's new state-of-the art Kl International Airport (KLIA) at Sepang. Domestic routes are served by Air Asia, Pelangi Air, Singapore Airlines and Royal Brunei Airlines, in addition to Malaysia Airlines. Malaysia is also accessible overland from Thailand in the north, and Singapore in the south, via Kerelapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) which connects most of the principal towns in Peninsular Malaysia. By sea, the main port-of-call for cruise liners to Malaysia is Port Klong, situated 41 km from KL. The city's strategic location at the heart of Southeast Asia, along with excellent supporting infrastructure, has made it a popular venue for international events, conventions and exhibitions.
This brief introduction provides the context for the Heritage Trails, which focus on pre-war buildings. Kuala Lumpur had its origins In the 1850s when the Malay Chief of Klang sent Chinese upriver to open new and larger tin mines. They landed at the confluence of Sungai Lumpur (now Gombak) and Sungal Klang and established mines at Ampang. Later, tin mines were opened at Pudu and Batu.
This trading post was a wild frontier town plagued by floods, fires, disease and the Selangor Civil War (1870-73). During this time, Kapitan Cina Yap Ah Loy emerged as a leader, responsible for the survival and growth of the town. In 1880. in view of its strategic location, the Selangor state capital was moved from Klang to Kuala Lumpur. Nothing of this earlier period remains as all structures were of wood and atap (thatch) which were destroyed in the fire and subsequent flood of 1881.
Thereafter, Frank Swettenham, the British Resident of Selangor who was Instrumental in the development of the town, required that buildings be constructed of brick and tile. The advent of the railway increased accessibility. The development of buildings intensified in the 1890s so that it warranted the establishment of the Sanitary Board. In 1896, Kuala Lumpur was chosen as the capital of the newly formed Federated Malay States.
The multiracial community of this period settled in various sections of town. Market Square, east of Sungai Klang, became the commercial centre for the whole town. The Chinese congregated around this Square and south into Chinatown. To the north, across Java Street (now Jalan Tun Perak). were the Malays. Nearby, a number of Indian Chettiars (money-lenders), and in later years Indian Muslim traders, set up business. West of The river, the Padang (now Merdeka Square) was the focal point or the British administration.
Kuala Lumpur continued to grow despite two World Wars. the rubber and tin commodity crash and the State of Emergency (1948-60) during which Malaya was preoccupied with the communist insurgency. In 1957, the Federation of Malaya gained its independence from British rule. Kuala Lumpur remained the capital through the formation of Malaysia, achieving city status in 1972, and was established as the Federal Territory in 1974.
TRANSPORT
Taxis are available throughout the city and they run on a meter system. There are several taxi companies operating in the city and each has their own unique coloured taxis. There is a minimum fare for each taxi ride (RM2 for the first 2km and 10 sen for every 200 metres thereon) and an extra charge (50%) will be include for service after midnight (till 6:00am) or if you phone (RM1) a taxi. Taxi usually queue up at the major shopping complexes and around some of the major hotels.
COMMEUTER TRAINS
KTM Komuter operates speedy electric train service from the KL railway station to designated points within the city as well as to Part Klang, Seremban, Kajang and Rawang.
Light Rail Transit (LRT) :
There are 2 LRT lines - STAR and PUTRA. Daily operating hours are 6.00am. - 12.00pm. Stored value tickets can be purchased at any LRT station.
BUS
Traveling in public buses is one of the best ways to see Kuala Lumpur. Major bus lines servicing the city and suburban areas are Intrakota, Metro and Cityliner.
 | Klang Bus Station To Pelaling Jaya, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Shah Alam and Port Klang. |
| | Jalan Sultan Mohamad Bus To Bungsar, Petaling Jaya (Old Town), Kelana Jaya, Jalan Pantai, Bukit Damansara and Subang. |
| | Bangkok Bank Bus Station To Selayang Baru, Segambut Dalam and Batu Caves. |
| | Pudu Raya Bus Station To Seri kembangan, Sungai Besi Camp, Balakong, Taman Seri Serdang and kajang. |
| | Lebuh Ampang Bus Station To Taman Greenwood, Kg. Air Panas, Sri Gombak, Taman Setapak and 12th Mile Gombak. |
| | Kata Raya Shopping Complex/Menara Maybank To Jalan Cheras, Sri Petaling, Serdang Lama, Taman Goodwood, Salak South, Sungei Besi, Kampung Pandan, Bandar Tun Razak and Taman Maluri. |
| | Chow Kit Bus Stand To Kg. Datuk Keramat, Ulu Kelang, Ampang, Cheras, Selak South, Sungai Besi, Petaling Jaya, Jalan kelang Lama, Bangsar, Damansara, kepong, Jinjang, Segambut, Selayang, Sentul, Gombak and Jalan Genting Kelang. |
| | Hentian Duta To KLIA There are also several bus companies which operate intercity, stage and express bus services to various destinations in the peninsula. Bus stations for interstate buses are located at: |
Putra Bus Station (Opposite the Putra World Trade Centre) Tel 03-442 9530 to the East Coast
Pekeliling Bus Station jalan Tun Razak Tel: 03-442 1256 to The East Coast
Pudu Raya Bus Station jalan Pudu Tel: 03-230 0145 to The North & South and Singapore
Bangunan MARA Medan MARA jalan Raja Laut Tel: 03-291 8113 to The North & South
CAR
Traveling by car gives more flexibility to visit places that are out of the city centre. Many of the international car rental agencies have counters at the airport. Hotels can also help arrange for car rentals. An international driving permit or a recognized valid driving license is required to drive in Kuala Lumpur.
TICKETS
Tickets for the bus service can be purchased at the Arrival Concourse (Level 3) of KLIA or at the covered car park. For enquiries please call 03-653 3154 and Toll-Free 1-800880-495.
LIMOUSINE (AIRPORT LIMO)
Two levels of limousine taxi service are provided at KLIA viz., the Premier Service and Budget Service. This is a pre-paid service and coupons have to be purchased at counters at the Arrival Concourse of the MTB. Fares and routes are based on a zoning system and varies according to the type of service used.
Elsewhere, if you require an airport taxi or limousine, you can call free phone 1-800-880-737, 1-800-880-678 or arrange them through your hotel.
WHERE TO STAY
Although better known for its collection of five-star hotels, the Golden Triangle is also becoming KL's budget accommodation precinct, with newer and better quality beds when compared with Chinatown in the City Center.
Budget
In general: watch out for those tiny little spots on bedsheets – they are a good indication for bugs providing an unpleasant night. Such have been reported for example at the Green hut lodge (48 Tengkat Tong Shin) in 2008.
- Pujangga Homestay, 21 Jalan Berangan, off Jalan Nagasari, Bukit Bintang, [28]. Clean and nice place in a very central location. Very nice staff. Rates include breakfast and free wi-fi. Dorm a/c 28 rm, single a/c 50 rm, double a/c 70rm. edit
- Paradiso, 116-B Jalan Bukit Bintang (In the northwest corner of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail), ☎ +603 2144 0888 (paradiso_kl@hotmail.com, fax: +603 2144 7677), [29]. Very clean and comfortable, and nice staff who all seem to live there as well. Includes breakfast (toast, tea/coffee, juice). Shared, but clean facilities. Dorm RM30 per person, air-con double room RM80. edit
- Red Palm, [30] 5 Tingkat Tong Shin (no sign outside building so you have to figure it which building is number five). Tel: +60-3-21431279 - A small hostel in a historical 2-storey building. Basic but clean rooms upstairs and offers broadband Internet and a hang-out lounge downstairs. There is a bbq area in front of the house. Hawker center Jalan Alor (1 min walk), Shopping and Entertainment Center Jalan Bukit Bintang (3 min) and Puduraya Bus Terminal (8min) are close by. RM25-65 (dorm room to twin double).
- Bedz KL, Jalan Changkat at Jalan Nagasari. - A brand new hostel with three air-conditioned dorm rooms, RM28 for a bed. Extremely clean. Quality fixtures. Tile floors and natural stone shower stalls with hot water and good water pressure. Free wireless internet. Lounge/bar downstairs with beer cheaper than at 7-11. Friendly and helpful staff. Friends of the owner and the staff come by frequently to hang out. No private rooms.
Mid range
- Hotel Orkid Kuala Lumpur, 300 Jalan Pudu. Tel: +60-3-2144 8033 - A great choice if you're looking for clean, basic rooms in a superb location. It has a breakfast lounge and a travel desk, and the usual services like room service, wake-up call, and business services. Rates start at RM86. Be Warned: there are two Hotel Orkids on the same street (they are the same company with the same logo). If you make a reservation online, it will not be valid at the 'Hotel Orkid Inn', and the company will charge the full room rate to your credit card. Make sure you find the correct one!
- Seasons' View, [31] Jalan Alor - In the middle of the hustle and bustle of hawker street Jalan Alor, offering basic rooms starting at RM75. The "Seasons View" hotel may have a nice looking website but the hotel itself is extremely dirty and infested, it is well worth while to spend a bit more and stay at a truly nice hotel.
- Bintang Warisan Hotel, [32] 68 Jalan Bukit Bintang. Tel: +60-3-21488111. Fax: +60-3-21482333 - KL hotel that offers traditional look, feel and service. Rooms from RM109.
- Concorde, [33] Jalan Sultan Ismail. Tel: +60-3-21442200 - Three-star hotel getting a little scruffy around the edges, but still pretty good value in the RM150-200 price bracket. Pool and all you'd expect, plus the popular Hard Rock Cafe downstairs. Within easy walking distance of Jalan P Ramlee's nightspots, the Bukit Nanas monorail station and the Petronas Towers/KLCC. The rooms in the Premier wing are a bit more expensive than the regular rooms but they offer services and amenities comparable to hotels of higher category for a remarkably lower price. Be careful and do not confuse this with the Concorde Inn, which is 5 minutes from the airport but far from everywhere else!
- Sungei Wang Hotel, [34] 74-76, Jalan Bukit Bintang. Tel: +60-3-2148 5255 - Offers comfortable rooms in a great location along Bukit Bintang. Aside from the basic conveniences, like laundry service and free parking, the hotel also has a restaurant that serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Meliá, [35] 16 Jalan Imbi. Tel: +60-3-21428333 (Monorail: Imbi) - Solid if unremarkable four-star hotel opposite Berjaya Time Square and with a Monorail station next door. "Deluxe" rooms are equipped with not just broadband access, but an entire PC! Regular rates from RM200 for two with breakfast. Book online through there webpage to get the best discounts.
- Swiss Garden Hotel,[36] 117, Jalan Pudu. Very classy four-star hotel located at the end of Bukit Bintang near the bus station, China town and independence square. Clean, well appointed and reasonably priced around RM 200 per night.
- Tune Hotels 316 Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman. Owned by Air Asia so expect low prices, young smiling staff, clean rooms, great bed and paying extras (air-con, thick towel, breakfast). Centrally located next to monorail. Prices, as with low-cost airlines, vary depending on when you book. Can be as low as RM10 but usual price for late bookings are around RM70 for single bed.
Splurge
Bukit Bintang
- Berjaya Times Square Hotel & Convention Center, [37] 1, Jalan Imbi. Tel: +60-3-21178000 (Monorail: Imbi) - Located within the mammoth Berjaya Times Square shopping mall complex. Has a large conference center.
- Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur, [38] 160 Jalan Bukit Bintang. Tel: +60-3-21174888. - A haven of warm elegance and gracious hospitality, the Hotel features 468 guestrooms including 30 suites, all with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide sweeping views of the city skyline. Hotel facilities include four new and vibrant restaurants and bars, Spa and Fitness Centre, The Executive Club, and 15,000 square feet of function space with the dedicated service of an Events Team. Guests on the Executive Club floor are accorded signature amenities and exclusive privileges that include the service of a Personal Butler. Location is excellent with good access to Sungei Wang Shopping complex, The Pavilion and Starhill. The Grand Millennium has an excellent pork free Chinese restaurant and an excellent Coffee House both of which boast one of the best balanced wine lists in town. Great service!!
- Istana, [39] 73, Jalan Raja Chulan. Tel: +60-3-21419988. (Monorail: Raja Chulan) - The lobby is worth a visit in itself but many feel not good enough to warrant a stay. It has all the facilities you would expect from a luxury hotel but in dire need of a good refurbishment.
- JW Marriott, [40] 183 Jalan Bukit Bintang. Tel: 60-3-27159000 (Monorail: Bukit Bintang) - Marriott's flagship hotel in Kuala Lumpur, decorated in a Malaysian style and conveniently located on Jalan Bukit Bintang near the shopping district. The Marriot has an outstanding Shanghainese restaurant
- Westin, [41] Jalan Bukit Bintang (opposite Pavilion Mall). Tel: 60-3-27318333. Extremely modern and well-equipped but quite lacking in identity, with nothing but the view to remind you that you're in Malaysia. Great spacious rooms with large bathrooms. Free Internet (Wi-Fi) available in the lobby and adjoining areas. Excellent gym and staffed Kids Club.
- KL Plaza Suites, [42] Jalan Bukit Bintang. Tel: +60-3-21456988
- Shangri-La, [43] 11 Jalan Sultan Ismail. Tel: +60-3-20322388. (Monorail: Bukit Nanas) - Started in the early 80's, this is Kuala Lumpur's best hotel with excellent service. It has been kept up to date with the owners continually reinvesting in the property. The restaurants in this beautiful property are generally good with the Chinese restaurant actually improving over the years and Zipangu setting some new trends for Japanese dining( although service here is not up to the ShangriLa standards).The Lobby lounge which sadly has lost its classic look is still THE lounge in Kuala Lumpur to enjoy an afternoon tea. The Lafite restaurant is now home to Damon Campbell who has a 'technological' take on many classic dishes.To many in KL, Lafite is among the best restaurants but some find this 'molecular' take leaves them a little wanting. The Lemon garden has extremely popular Buffets. The location along Jalan P Ramlee/Sultan Ismail is popular and many guests make a beeline for the nearby Menara Hap Seng, an office building which also has an brilliant Bar/Bistro in Hakka Republic and a relatively good(but pricey) Cantonese restaurant in Elegant Inn.
- Ritz Carlton [44] 168, Jalan Imbi - This hotel and residence is connected to Starhill Gallery and hosts the Spa Village, one of the best in Malaysia. All rooms have 24h butler service and most of them have access to an executive lounge with complimentary Internet access and drinks/horderves. For a Ritz the rooms are downright frumpy, but service is good and it IS cheap for a Ritz Carlton. Internet rates from RM380++.
- Prince, [45] 4 Jalan Conlay (Monorail: Raja Chulan). Tel: +60-3-21708888 - Large modern hotel and service apartment complex packed with restaurants, convenience store, spa, gym, pool, etc. Internet rates from RM300 with breakfast.
KLCC and Jalan Ampang
- Mandarin Oriental, [46] - Probably with the best location in KL - adjacent to the Twin Towers, a 50 acre park, and the KLCC shopping mall (the largest in central KL and the most fashionable one of the moment). Whilst primarily for business travellers, tourists will be well accommodated for. The restaurants are among the best designed in Kuala Lumpur and include Pacifica a fusion restaurant which gets mixed reviews and the stunning Sultan's lounge which is a very upscale nightspot.There is a nice infinity pool over the park, and to top it all, the rates often undercut some of the other hotels, such as the Westin.
- Traders, [47] Tel: +60-3-23329888 - Sister hotel to the Shangri-La, overlooking KLCC and the Petronas Towers. View from the open air bar and pool/spa complex at the top is stunning. Rooms are very well appointed, and rates among the best of the top flight hotels in KL. In house food also very good. Trader's club upgrade entitles you to free drinks, snacks and Internet broadband.
- Renaissance, [48] Corner of Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang. Tel: +60-3-21622233 - Five-star hotel at the edge of the Golden Triangle, accessible by monorail (Monorail: Bukit Nanas) and LRT (Putra Line: Dang Wangi). The East Wing ("Superior" rooms) is newer and more modern, while the West Wing ("Deluxe" rooms) are older. Rates from RM250 and up.
- Maya, [49] Jl. Ampang between Petronas Towers (Putra KLCC) monorail (Bukit Nanas). Stylish hotel with spa and amazing view from the loung on the 14th floor. Just across the street from Zouk
- Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur, [50] 2 Jalan Stesen Sentral. Tel: +60-3-22637888 - Adjacent to the KL Sentral train station - the city's integrated transportation hub, this luxury hotel opened in 2004 has a splendid lobby and modern rooms with great views of the nearby gardens. Shares spa and pool facilities with the Hilton next door. The pool is one of the best you'll ever see.
- Hilton Kuala Lumpur [51] Great Location in the heart of KL, 2 minutes from Kuala Lumpur Sentral train station, providing even easier access to KLCC and also KLIA (Airport) only 30 minutes away by the train. Rooms are luxurious, all featuring flat screen TV's in a modern environment. Try the innovation suite, luxury at its best; featuring two Plasma TV's, one in the bedroom and one in the separate office, plus one inset TV in the rain shower. Restaurants are spectacular in design and are generally well patronised but have got mixed reviews.
- Hotel Imperial [52]Jalan Sultan Ismail,Phone: (60)(3) 2717 9900. Situated just beside Asian Heritage Row. Rooms have plasma TV, butler service, walk in closet. Restaurants ranging from western to eastern. The hotel also provides shuttle service to KLCC and KL Sentral.
The geography of Kuala Lumpur is characterized by a huge valley known as Klang Valley. The valley is bordered by the Titiwangsa Mountains in the east, several minor ranges in the north and the south and the Strait of Malacca in the west. Kuala Lumpur is a Malay term which translates to "muddy confluence" as it is located at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers.[31]
Located in the center of Selangor state, Kuala Lumpur was previously under the rule of Selangor State Government. In 1974, Kuala Lumpur was separated from Selangor to form the first Federal Territory governed directly by the Malaysian Federal Government. Its location on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, which has wider flat land than the east coast, has contributed to its faster development relative to other cities in Malaysia.[citation needed]
The municipality of the city covers an area of 243.65 km2 (94.07 sq mi), with an average elevation of 21.95 m (72 ft).
Weather
Protected by the Titiwangsa Mountains in the east and Indonesia's Sumatra Island in the west, Kuala Lumpur has a year-round equatorial climate which is warm and sunny, along with abundant rainfall, especially during the southwest monsoon season from September to April. Temperatures tend to remain constant. Maximums hover between 31 °C and 33 °C (88-92 °F) and have never exceeded 37 °C (99 °F), while minimums hover between 22 °C and 23.5 °C (71-74 °F) and have never fallen below 19 °C (66 °F). Kuala Lumpur typically receives 2,266 mm (89.2 in) of rain annually; June and July are relatively dry, but even then rainfall typically exceeds 125 mm (5 in) per month.
Flooding is a frequent occurrence in Kuala Lumpur whenever there is a heavy downpour, especially in the city centre and downstream areas.[32] Dust particles from forest fires from nearby Sumatra sometimes cast a haze over the region. It is a major source of pollution in the city together with open burning, emission from motor vehicles and construction work.[33
Demographics
Bahasa Melayu—the national language, is one of the principal languages of Kuala Lumpur. Other major languages spoken in the city are Mandarin, Cantonese and Tamil. English has a strong presence, especially in business and is a compulsory language taught in schools.[35]
Kuala Lumpur also has a mix of different cultures which include Malays, Chinese, Indians, Eurasians, as well as Kadazans, Ibans and other indigenous races from East Malaysia and Peninsula Malaysia.[36][35]
Kuala Lumpur's rapid development, triggered huge influx of foreign workers from Indonesia, Nepal, Burma, Thailand, Bangladesh, Vietnam and China into Malaysia.[37][38]
In the late-18th century, when Europe underwent Industrial Revolution, large groups of Chinese from Fujian and Guangdong in China were brought in to Malaya to work in the booming tin mining industry.[39] The Chinese in Kuala Lumpur speak different dialects but the majority in Kuala Lumpur are of Cantonese descent,[40] followed by the Hokkiens and the Hakkas.[41]
Indians form 10% of the population in Kuala Lumpur (as on 2000), mostly practise Hinduism and speak Tamil and other Indian and Pakistani languages such as Hindi, Malayalam, Punjabi, Telugu and Pashtu. Historically, most of the Indians were brought in during the British colonisation of the Malaysia.[39] Their popular festivals are Thaipusam, Deepavali and Pongal.[35]
Islam is practised primarily by the Malays and the Indian Muslim communities. Other major religions are Hinduism (among Indians), Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism (mainly among Chinese) and Christianity.[42] The city has many places of worship catering to the multi-religious population.
Population statistics
The estimated population of Kuala Lumpur in the city proper for 2006 was 1.58 million.[4] It has a population density of 6,502 inhabitants per square kilometre (16,840 /sq mi), and is the most densely populated administrative district in Malaysia.[4] With an estimated metropolitan population of 6.9 million in 2007, it can be considered a primate city.[1] The continuing decline in the birth rate for Kuala Lumpur has resulted in the decline in the proportion of young people below 15 years old from 33% in 1980 to slightly less than 27% in 2000.[36] On the other hand, the working age group of 15-59 increased from 63% in 1980 to 67% in 2000.[36] The elderly age group, 60 years old and above has increased from 4% in 1980 and 1991 to 6% in 2000.[36]
Based on the census of the Department of Statistics (see http://www.statistics.gov.my/eng/), the percentage of Bumiputra population in Kuala Lumpur alone was around 38% in 2000 (next census is in 2010) while the Chinese population comprised 43% and Indians 10%.[36] A notable phenomenon has been the increase in the presence of foreign residents in Kuala Lumpur, who now constitute about 9% of the city’s population.[36]
Crime in Kuala Lumpur has been a concern of residents in recent years. Among the crimes showing increasing rates were snatch theft, drug addiction, gambling and vice.[43] These problems have been associated with the rising numbers of immigrants from Indonesia and Myanmar. Some of them are brought in with the promise of low to medium grade salary.
Economy
Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding urban areas form the most industrialized and economically, the fastest growing region in Malaysia.[6] Despite the relocation of federal government administration to Putrajaya, certain government’s important machineries such as Bank Negara Malaysia (Central Bank of Malaysia), Companies Commission of Malaysia and Securities Commission as well as most embassies and diplomatic missions have remained in the city.[49]
The city remains as the economic and business center of the country. In fact, the city is a center for finance, insurance, real estate, media and the arts of Malaysia. The infrastructure development in the surrounding areas such as the Kuala Lumpur International Airport at Sepang, the creation of the Multimedia Super Corridor and the expansion of Port Klang further reinforce the economic significance of the city.
Bursa Malaysia or the Malaysia Exchange is based in the city and forms one of its core economic activities. As of 20 November, 2007, the market capitalisation stood at US$318.65 billion.[50]
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for Kuala Lumpur is estimated at RM25,968 million in 2000 with an average annual growth rate of 4.2 percent.[36] The per capita GDP for Kuala Lumpur in year 2000 is RM30,727, an average annual growth rate of 6.1 percent.[36] The total employment in Kuala Lumpur is estimated at around 838,400.[36] The service sector comprising finance, insurance, real estate, business services, wholesale and retail trade, restaurants and hotels, transport, storage and communication, utilities, personal services and government services form the largest component of employment representing about 83.0 percent of the total.[36] The remaining 17 percent comes from manufacturing and construction.
The large service sector is evident in the number of local and foreign banks and insurance companies operating in the city. Kuala Lumpur is poised to become the global Islamic Financing hub[51] with an increasing number of financial institutions providing Islamic Financing and the strong presence of Gulf's financial institutions such as the world's largest Islamic bank, Al-Rajhi Bank[52] and Kuwait Finance House. Apart from that, the Dow Jones & Company is keen to work with Bursa Malaysia to set up Islamic Exchange Trade Funds (ETFs), which would help raise Malaysia's profile in the Gulf.[53] The city has a large number of foreign corporations and is also host to many multi national companies’ regional offices or support centres, particularly for finance and accounting, and information technology functions. Most of the countries’ largest companies have their headquarters based here and as of December 2007 and excluding Petronas, there are 14 companies that are listed in Forbes 2000 based in Kuala Lumpur.[54]
Other important economic activities in the city are education and health services. Kuala Lumpur also has advantages stemming from the high concentration of educational institutions located within its boundaries, providing a wide range of courses. Such public institutions include the International Islamic University Malaysia,University of Malaya, the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, International Medical University and the Medical Faculty of the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. There are also a large number of private colleges, including the Universiti Tun Abdul Razak and Tunku Abdul Rahman College, in and around Kuala Lumpur providing a wide range of courses which attract students from all over Malaysia as well as from other countries. There are numerous public and private medical specialist centres and hospitals in the city which offer general health services and a wide range of specialist surgery and treatment catering to locals and tourists.
There has been growing emphasis to expand the economic scope of the city into other service activities such as research and development which supports the rest of the economy of Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur has been home for years to important research centers such as the Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia, the Forest Research Institute Malaysia and the Institute of Medical Research[55] and more research centers are expected to be established in the coming years.
Tourism
The tourism sector also plays an important part in the city’s economy, providing income, employment and expanding business opportunities. As an extension of this, many large worldwide hotel chains have presence in the city. Kuala Lumpur has also developed into an international shopping destination with a wide variety of shopping centres and mega malls which carry well-known global and local brands. Conference tourism has also expanded in recent years and is becoming a very important component of the industry.
Major destinations include the Kuala Lumpur City Centre, KLCC,House of Parliament, Kuala Lumpur Tower, Putra World Trade Centre, Dataran Merdeka, Tugu Negara, Istana Negara, Istana Budaya, mosques such as the Masjid Jamek, Masjid Negara and the Federal Territory Mosque, Muzium Negara, and other tourist attractions including Aquaria KLCC, Batu Caves, Makam Pahlawan, National Science Centre, Zoo Negara, and events such as Malay cultural centres, the Chinese cultural festivals at the Thean Hou Temple and the Thaipusam procession at the Sri Mahamariamman Temple. The Golden Triangle, the commercial hub of the city, contains the Petronas Twin Towers and has a distinctive nightlife. Trendy nightclubs, bars and lounges, such as Hakka Republic Wine bar & Restaurant,Hard Rock Cafe, Zouk, Thai Club, Beach Club (voted Best Bar in Asia), Luna Bar, Rum Jungle, Nuovo, Espanda and many others are located within and around Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang.
Hotels, from five-star to budget types, have cropped up everywhere to accommodate the influx of tourists each year. While there are many hotels near Kuala Lumpur's entertainment and business districts, some have chosen to veer away from the hustle and bustle.
Retail
Kuala Lumpur alone has 66 shopping malls and it is the retail and fashion hub for Malaysia.[56] Shopping in Malaysia contributes RM7.7 billion (USD 2.26 billion) or 20.8 percent of the RM31.9 billion tourism receipts in 2006.[57] and Kuala Lumpur, as Malaysia's retail hub, plays a big role in attracting consumers. Suria KLCC is one of Malaysia's premier shopping destinations due to its location beneath the Petronas Twin Towers, the world's tallest twin towers and second and third-tallest singular towers. Apart from Suria KLCC, Bukit Bintang, which resembles Tokyo's Ginza, New York's Fifth Avenue and Singapore's Orchard Road has the highest concentration of shopping outlets in Kuala Lumpur. Bukit Bintang, which is part of the Kuala Lumpur's Golden Triangle, spans over 3 roads which are Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Imbi and Jalan Sultan Ismail. It houses various cafes, alfresco (open air) dining outlets and shopping complexes namely Berjaya Times Square, Bukit Bintang Plaza, Imbi Plaza, Kuala Lumpur Plaza, Lot 10, Low Yat Plaza, Pavilion KL, Starhill Plaza, Berjaya Plaza and Sungei Wang Plaza. It is also the location of the largest single department store in Malaysia, SOGO Kuala Lumpur[58] (also known as KL SOGO) which is located at a landmark site on Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, one of the best known shopping streets for locals in Kuala Lumpur. The Bangsar district also has a few shopping complexes, namely Mid Valley Megamall, The Gardens and Bangsar Village. The Damansara area north-west of Kuala Lumpur, though not in the city-proper, is the home of the only IKEA outlet in the country, and a cluster of locally-operated malls including Ikano Power Centre, NiuXehSui at Ara Damansara, The Curve, Cathay Multi Screen Cinemas and 1 Utama.
Apart from shopping complexes, Kuala Lumpur has designated numerous zones in the city to market locally manufactured products such as textiles, fabrics and handicrafts. The Chinatown of Kuala Lumpur, or commonly known as Petaling Street, is one of them. Chinatown features many pre-independence buildings with Straits Chinese and European traditions influence.[59][60] The Kuala Lumpur's Central Market, which was once the city's wet market, offers an assortment of arts and craft merchandise, varying from antiques and paintings to souvenirs and clothing. It is also known as Pasar Seni in Malay.
Since 2000, the Ministry of Tourism of Malaysia has kick-started the mega sale event for all shopping in Malaysia. The mega sale event is held thrice in a year—in March, May and December—where all shopping malls are encouraged to participate to boost Kuala Lumpur as a leading shopping destination.[61]
Cityscape
Architecture
The architecture of Kuala Lumpur is a blend of old colonial influences, Asian traditions, Malay Islamic inspirations, modern, and postmodern architecture mix.[62] Being a relatively young city compared with other Southeast Asian capitals such as Bangkok, Jakarta and Manila, most of Kuala Lumpur's colonial buildings were built toward the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries. These buildings have Moorish, Tudor, Neo-Gothic or Grecian-Spanish style or architecture.[63] Most of the styling has been modified to use local resources and acclimatised to the local climate, which is hot and humid all year around.
Prior to the Second World War, many shophouses, usually two storeys with functional shops on the ground floor and separate residential spaces upstairs, were built around the old city centre. These shop-houses drew inspiration from Straits Chinese and European traditions.[59][60] Some of these shophouses have made way for new developments but there are still many standing today around Medan Pasar (Old Market Square), Chinatown, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Doraisamy, Bukit Bintang and Tengkat Tong Shin areas.
Independence coupled with the rapid economic growth from the 1970s to the 1990s and with Islam being the official religion in the country, has resulted in the construction of buildings with a more local and Islamic flavour arise around the city. Many of these buildings derive their design from traditional Malay items such as the songkok and the keris. Some of these buildings have Islamic geometric motifs integrated with the designs of the building, signifying Islamic restriction on imitating nature through drawings.[64] Examples of these buildings are Menara Telekom, Menara Maybank, Dayabumi Complex, and the Islamic Center.[65] Some buildings such as the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia and National Planetarium have been built to masquerade as a place of worship, complete with dome and minaret, when in fact it is a place of science and knowledge. The 452-metre (1,480 ft) tall Petronas Twin Towers were designed to resemble motifs found in Islamic art.[66]
Late modern and postmodern architecture began to appear in the late-1990s and early-2000s. With the economic development, old buildings such as Bok House have been razed to make way for new ones. Buildings with all glass shell appears around the city, with the most prominent example being the Petronas Twin Towers and Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.[67]
Kuala Lumpur’s central business district today has shifted around the Kuala Lumpur city centre (KLCC) where many new and tall buildings with modern and postmodern architecture fill the skyline.
Parks
The Perdana Lake Gardens, a 92-hectare (230-acre) manicured garden near the Malaysian Parliament building, was once home to a British colonial official. The park includes a Butterfly Park, Deer Park, Orchid Garden, Hibiscus Garden and Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, Southeast Asia's largest bird park.[68] Other parks in the city include, the ASEAN Sculpture Garden, Kuala Lumpur City Centre Park (KLCC), Titiwangsa Lake Gardens, Metropolitan Lake Gardens in Kepong, Forest Research Institute Malaysia,[69] Taman Tasik Permaisuri (Queen’s Lake Gardens), Bukit Kiara Botanical Gardens, Equestrian Park and West Valley Park near TTDI, and Bukit Jalil International Park.
There are three forest reserves within the city namely the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve in the city centre, the oldest gazetted forest reserve in the country (10.52 ha/26.0 acres, Bukit Sungai Putih Forest Reserve (7.41 ha/18.3 acres) and Bukit Sungai Besi Forest Reserve (42.11 ha/104.1 acres). Bukit Nanas, in the heart of the city centre, is one of the oldest virgin forests in the world within a city.[70] These residual forest areas are home to a number of fauna species particularly monkeys, tree shrews, squirrels and birds.
Culture
Arts
Kuala Lumpur is a hub for cultural activities and events in Malaysia. Among the centres is the National Museum which is situated along the Mahameru Highway. Its collection comprises artifacts and paintings collected throughout the country.[71]
Kuala Lumpur also has an Islamic Arts Museum which houses more than seven thousand Islamic artefacts including rare exhibits from China as well as a library of Islamic art books.[72] This museum features some impressively decorated domes and large open exhibition spaces. It is located at Jalan Lembah Perdana next to the National Mosque.
The premier performing arts venue is the Petronas Philharmonic Hall. The resident orchestra is the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), consisting of musicians from all over the world and features regular concerts, chamber concerts and traditional cultural performances.[73]
The National Art Gallery of Malaysia is located on Jalan Temerloh, off Jalan Tun Razak on a 5.67-hectare (14.0-acre) site neighbouring the National Theater (Istana Budaya) and National Library. The architecture of the gallery incorporates elements of traditional Malay architecture, as well as contemporary modern architecture. The National Art Gallery serves as a centre of excellence and trustee of the national art heritage.
The Petronas Art Gallery, another centre for fine art, is situated in Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). The Galeri Tangsi near Dataran Merdeka houses exhibitions of works by local and foreign artists.
The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPac) in Sentul West is one of the most established centres for the performing arts, notably theatre, music, and film screening, in the country. It has housed many local productions and has been a supporter of local and regional independent performance artists.[74] One of the highlights in 2006 was the KL Sing Song 2006 music fest which featured Malaysian singer-songwriters of various cultural backgrounds, from both West and East Malaysia, through two days of performances and workshops.[75]
Kuala Lumpur holds the Malaysia International Gourmet Festival annually.[76] Another event hosted annually by the city is the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week,[77] which includes international brands as well as local designers.
Sports and recreation
Kuala Lumpur has numerous parks and open spaces for recreational purposes. Total open space for recreational and sport facilities land use in the city has increased significantly by 169.6 percent from 586 hectares (1,450 acres) in 1984 to 1,580 hectares (3,900 acres) in 2000.[78]
Kuala Lumpur is one of the host cities for the Formula One World Championship,[13] the open-wheel auto racing A1 Grand Prix[79] and the Motorcycle Grand Prix[80] with races being held at Sepang International Circuit in the neighbouring state of Selangor, next to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The Formula One event contributes significantly to tourist arrivals and tourism income to Kuala Lumpur. This is evident during the Asian Financial Crisis in 1998. Despite cities around Asia suffering declining tourist arrivals, Kuala Lumpur tourist arrivals increased from 6,210,900 in 1997 to 10,221,600 in 2000, or 64.6% increase in tourist arrivals.[81]
KL Grand Prix CSI 5*,[82] a five-star international showjumping equestrian event is held annually in the city. This annual event draws the world’s top riders and their prized horses to Malaysia.
Other annual sport events hosted by the city include the KL Tower Run,[83] the KL Tower International BASE Jump Merdeka Circuit and the Kuala Lumpur International Marathon. Kuala Lumpur is also one of the stages of the Tour de Langkawi cycling race.[84]
The annual Malaysia Open Super Series badminton tournament is held in Kuala Lumpur.
Kuala Lumpur has a considerable array of sports facilities of international class after hosting the 1998 Commonwealth Games. Many of these facilities including the main stadium (with running track and a football field), hockey stadium and swimming pools are located in the National Sports Complex at Bukit Jalil while a velodrome and more swimming pools are located in Bandar Tun Razak, next to the Taman Tasik Permaisuri Lake Gardens. There are also soccer fields, local sports complexes, swimming pools and tennis courts scattered around the suburbs. Badminton and ‘takraw’ courts are usually included in community halls.
Kuala Lumpur has several golf courses including the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC) and the Malaysia Civil Service Golf Club in Kiara and the Berjaya Golf Course at Bukit Jalil.
The city also has numerous large private fitness centers run by California Fitness, Fitness First, Celebrity Gym, True Fitness and the major five star hotels.
Transportation
Unlike most other Asian cities, driving is the main mode of commuting in Kuala Lumpur.[95] Hence, every part of the city is well connected by highways. As capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur has a comprehensive road network that leads to the rest of Peninsular Malaysia.[96] High speed roadways, or expressways are tolled roadways, and motorists using these expressways have an option of paying by cash, or by stored value cards such as Touch 'n Go and SmartTAG.[97]
In terms of air connectivity, Kuala Lumpur is served by two airports. The main airport, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), which is also the aviation hub of Malaysia, is located about 50 kilometres (31 mi) south of city. The other airport is Subang Airport which used to be the main international airport serving the city until KLIA replaced it when it opened in 1998. The airport connects the city with direct flights to destinations in six continents around the world,[98] and is the main hub for the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines. KLIA can be reached using the KLIA Ekspres high-speed train service from KL Sentral which takes only twenty-eight minutes,[99] while travelling by car via highway will take about an hour. As of 2007, Subang Airport is only used for chartered and turboprops flights by airlines such as Firefly and Berjaya Air.[100]
Public transport on Kuala Lumpur and the rest of the Klang Valley covers a variety of transport modes such as bus, rail and taxi. Despite efforts to promote usage of public transportation, utilisation rates are low as only 16 percent of the population used public transportation in 2006.[95] The rapid transit system in Kuala Lumpur consists of three separate rail systems which meet in the city and extends towards other parts of Klang Valley. The rail systems are RapidKL RAIL, KL Monorail, and KTM Komuter. These lines have either underground or elevated stations around the city. The main rapid transit hub is KL Sentral which facilitates as an interchange station for the rail systems. KL Sentral is also a hub for intercity railway operated by KTM Intercity. It provides rail services to as far as Singapore in the south, and Hat Yai, Thailand, in the north.[101]
The largest public transportation operator in Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley is RapidKL.[102] Since the take over from Intrakota Komposit Sdn Bhd, RapidKL has redrawn the entire bus network of Kuala Lumpur and Klang Valley metropolitan area[103] to increase ridership and improve Kuala Lumpur's public transportation system. The management of RapidKL has adopted the hub and spoke system to provide greater connectivity, and cut down the need of more buses.[104] RapidKL is also the operator of three rapid transit rail lines in Kuala Lumpur, namely Ampang Line, Sri Petaling Line and Kelana Jaya Line.[105]
Kuala Lumpur is served by Port Klang, located about 64 km (40 mi) southwest of the city. The port is the largest and busiest in the country handling about 6.3 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) of cargo in 2006.[106] 
Malaysia cuisine is exotic with an exciting range of flavors and culinary styles offering the uninitiated an endless gastronomic adventure. It comprises three main groups - Malay, Chinese and Indian with each having its own distinct style of cooking. There are also cuisines that have evolved from the meeting of cultures notably those of the Nyonya and Indian Muslim communities.
Western cuisine, especially Continental and Mediterranean fare, are also available in the major cities. 
Indeed, Malaysia as a meeting place of both eastern and western cultures, has produced a most diverse culinary melting pot.
For the visitor who is interested in dining out, Kuala Lumpur will prove to be a unique experience both in terms of the array of culinary delights as well as in the wide choice of settings. You can dine out at posh hotel restaurants, elegant chain restaurants, chic sidewalk cafes, delicatessens or eat out at the many hawker stalls till the wee hours of the morning.
MALAY CUISINE
Malay cuisine is rich and spicy arising from the use of hard spices and a wet spice mixture of rempah and coconut milk. Malay cuisine varies from region to region. Kelantanese cuisine, akin to Thai cooking for example, has a sweetish taste due to liberal use of coconut milk and sugar in cooking. On the other hand, the cuisine of Kedah is spicier due to the influence of Indians who arrived here centuries ago during the spice trade. For the adventurous, there is an array of popular Malay dishes to tantalize their taste buds. A favorite with Malaysians is nosi lemak, rice cooked in coconut milk served with anchovies, squid, eggs, cucumber and sambal (chili paste). An East Coast favourite is nasi dagang, fragrant unpolished glutinous rice steamed with coconut milk and served with tuna fish curry. Nasi kerabu, another rice-based dish native to Kelantan, is served with local herbs and salted fish. A Malay banquet would not be complete without the ever popular satay, skewered chicken or beef marinated in spices, then grilled over charcoal fire. It is served with peanut gravy, rice cubes, cucumber and onions.
CHINESE CUISINE
A wide variety of Chinese cuisine is available in Kuala Lumpur. Among the popular styles of cooking are those of the Cantonese, Hokkien, Hainanese, Hakka and Szechuan communities. Generally, Chinese cuisine is mild in flavor but local influence has given it a slightly spicier taste.
In addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner, there are elevens where dim sum (steamed snacks) is served. Apart from hotel outlets and large chain restaurants, Chinese food is also available in most coffee shops around KL.
NYONYA CUISINE
Nyonya or Peanakan cuisine evolved out of a unique blend of Malay and Chinese cooking styles. It is characterized by sweet, sour, spicy and pungent flavors. Typical dishes include otak-otak (fish meat marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled) and itik tim (duck with salted vegetables. The cuisine is best tried in Nyonya restaurants which have become popular in recent years.
INDIAN CUISINE
Contrary to popular perception, Indian cuisine need not be searingly hot. Various spice blends are used in Indian cuisine to give a robust flavor to food but yoghurt almost always accompanies a meal at th end to cool down the taste buds. Milder on the taste buds. Milder on the taste buds are dishes such as kurma (mild meat curry) and tandoori chicken (chicken baked in clay oven).
Generally, Southern Indian cuisine is hotter than its Northern Indian and Moghul counterparts and is characterized by the heavy use of cream, meat-based dishes and naan breads. Indian-Muslim cuisine is another local favorite one ought to try while in KL. Popular dished include fish-head curry, murtabak (pancake with spiced meat mixture) and mee goreng (fried noodles).
INTERNATIONAL CUISINE
Foreign visitors will be pleasantly surprised to discover the abundance of international cuisine available in KL. Restaurants serving international cuisine can usually be found in major hotels as well as in the vicinity of Jalan Sultan ismail, Jalan Ampang and Bangsar where there is a sizeable expatiate community.
| Exotic Tropical Gardens. Dazzling Skyscrapers. Quaint Heritage Buildings. Explore A City Full of Surprises Where The Mood and Rhythm Changes From One Sight to Another. Stop. Savor. You'll Discover The Unique Charm and Appeal of Kuala Lumpur. | |
 SULTAN ABDUL SAMAN BUILDING  A stately, historic building rich in character, it was built in 1897 to house several important government departments during the British administration. This Moorish-inspired building, topped by a shiny copper dome and a 40m high clock tower, is a major landmark in the city. It serves as the backdrop for important events such as the National Day Parade on August 31 and the ushering in of the New Year. This heritage buildings now occupied by the Supreme Court and the Textile Museum. RUMAH PENGHULU ABU SEMAN NATION SPORTS COMPLEX THE FAMILY PARK KUALA LUMPUR RAILWAY STATION THE NATIONAL THEATER | DATARAN MERDEKA  Facing the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is Dataran Merdeka or Merdeka Square, an immaculately-tufted 8.2 hectare area of historical interest. A 100 meter-high flagpole marks the spot where the Malayan Flag was hoisted on August 31, 1957 signifying the independence of the country from British rule. At the opposite end of the square is an inviting spot where visitors can relax amid soothing rushing waters of fountains, elegant colonnades and colorful beds of zinnias and marigolds. Beneath the square is Plaza Putra, an underground food, leisure and entertainment complex. NATIONAL MOSQUE CAMMONWEALTH HILL AND FAMILY PARK SUNGAI KUYOH NATIONAL ART GALLERY NATIONALPLANETARIUM |
DATARAN MERDEKA
Facing the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is Dataran Merdeka or Merdeka Square, an immaculately-tufted 8.2 hectare area of historical interest. A 100 meter-high flagpole marks the spot where the Malayan Flag was hoisted on August 31, 1957 signifying the independence of the country from British rule. At the opposite end of the square is an inviting spot where visitors can relax amid soothing rushing waters of fountains, elegant colonnades and colorful beds of zinnias and marigolds. Beneath the square is Plaza Putra, an underground food, leisure and entertainment complex.
NATIONAL MOSQUE
This uniquely designed mosque embodies a contemporary expression of traditional Islamic art, calligraphy and ornamentation. Its most striking feature is the multi-fold umbrella-like roof which symbolizes the aspirations of an independent nation. Standing prominently against the skyline is the sleek and stylish 73m high minaret.
The national mosque serves serves as the principal mosque for the city dwellers.
CAMMONWEALTH HILL AND FAMILY PARK
Located at the north of the National Sports Complex is a memorial park for the Kuala Lumpur '98 Commonwealth Games Commonwealth Hill. Major plazas located here are Plaza Bendera, Plaza Komanwel, Plaza Central which highlight the history and information on all the nations which took part in the Kuala Lumpur '98 Games.
Plaza Pandangan (Scenic Plaza) is the highest point from where you can get a breathtaking view of the National Sports Complex and Kuala Lumpur skyline.
Trees surrounding a man made lake reflect the abundance of Malaysia's natural tropical resources.
SUNGAI KUYOH
This landscaped garden is a recreational area for a leisure stroll along the river. Lush and shady trees line the river bank.
Exercise stations are provided at certain places along the rive bank for light work-outs making it a pleasant experience.
NATIONAL ART GALLERY
Located on a 5.67 acres site at Jalan Temerloh, the National Art Gallery is flanked by the National Theatre and the National Library.
Built with aesthetics and functionality in mind, the art gallery creates a space for the preservation, development, exploration and experimentation of the various facets of art in Malaysia. There are a number of galleries housing various permanent and temporary exhibitions. Amenities available include a creative centre, a sculpture garden, a photography and graphics studio, and auditorium, a library, a restoration space, a book shop and a cafe.
NATIONALPLANETARIUM
This blue-domed structure is situated atop a hill in KL Lake Gardens. Its attractions include the space theatre whit screens space shows and movies. In the main hall are permanent exhibits related to space science. Among them is Arianne IV space engine - one of the engines used to launch MEASAT I, Malaysia's first satellite into space. Head towards the Observatory where on a full moon you can see the heavenly bodies through the 14-inch telescope. The planetarium extends to a space theme park where replicas of ancients observatories are sited. The planetarium is connected by an overhead pedestrian bridge to the National Museum.
| KUALA LUMPUR LAKE GARDENS KL's most popular park, located at Jalan Perdana, showcases harmony, beauty and tranquility created by both man and nature. Built around two lakes, the sprawling 91.6 hectares tropical garden is a pleasant oasis within the city providing a cool and soothing ambience as one walks through a vista of exotic blooms, luxuriant foliage, imposing sculptures, creative theme parks and majestic-looking rain trees. Attractions within the park are: | |
| ORCHID GARDEN Walk under pergolas, delighting in the exotic blooms of orchids or stroll through orchid-lined walkways! Buy a plant specimen as a memento of your visit to KL! Over 800  varieties of orchids, including the exotic species, thrive abundantly on this 1 hectare floral paradise. Cut flowers and plants are sold on weekend. Orchid growers at the garden provide practical tips and advice on the art of orchid growing. KUALA LUMPUR BIRD PARK |  HIBISCUS GARDENHibiscus, the 'Queen of Tropical Flowers' thrives in glorious shades in this garden where over 500 varieties are grown. Among them is the rosa sinensis, Malaysia's national flower. DEER PARK NATIONAL MONUMENT ASEAN SCULPTURE GARDEN |
NATIONAL MUSEUM Located on the fringe of the Kuala Lumpur lake Gardens, the National Museum serves as the principal museum in the country. The design of this palatial building is based on the classical Malay architecture. The various galleries in the Museum provide interesting insights into the history, political development, culture, economy, arts, and flora and fauna of the country. Located on the museum's grounds are static displays including old locomotives, vintage cars and a replica of an ancient Malay palace. open: 9am-6pm (Daily) ,Admission: RM1, Children below 12 years: Free. ISTANA NEGARA PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS GALERI PETRONAS MALAYSIA TOURIST INFORMATION COMPLEX (MATIC) NATIONAL ZOO AND AQUARIUM CENTRAL MARKET JALAN MASJID INDIA  Situated at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers, the mosque forms a startling contrast against the modern buildings behind it. It was built in 1909, making it the oldest mosque in the city. It features graceful arches and domes, reminiscent of the Moorish era. MENARA KUALA LUMPUR KUALA LUMPUR CITY CENTER PARK DEWAN FILHARMONIK PETRONAS NATIONAL SCIENCE CENTER ISLAMIC ARTS MUSEUM MALAYSIA PETALING STREET KOMPLEX BUDAYA KRAF  Kuala Lumpur, the commercial hub of Malaysia, abounds with a vibrant blend of shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities for visitors. Shopping establishments display a wide range of goods rivaling that of major cities elsewhere while the local passion for food is evident in its numerous dining spots. At dusk a whole spectrum of entertainment beckons fun-loves to a world of pulsating rhythms and flashing colors.  Shopping in Kuala Lumpur promises variety, value and convenience. There is a bewildering range of shopping establishments catering for every taste and budget, which includes modern air-conditioned shopping malls, department stores, hypermarkets, shopping arcades, specialty stores, handicraft centers, duty-free shops, bazaars and night markets. Among the items high on the shopping list of tourists are pewter, batik, duty-free items, electrical products, pret-a-porter attire, sportswear and handicrafts. A novel experience for overseas visitors is the night markets or 'pasar malam' which begin their trading activities in the late afternoon. These open-air markets feature hawker stalls that sell a variety of local produce, foodstuff, clothing and cakes, Haggling is a common practice. Street artists and traditional medicine vendors are an entertaining sight here. The Shopping Carnival, an annual sale held in October/November in Kuala Lumpur and other major cities in Malaysia is an opportune time to pick up great bargains. There are several principal shopping precincts in the city. The most popular is the area bounded by Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Imbi in the vicinity of the hotel belt. Other popular areas are Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Ampang, Jalan Cheng Lock, Petaling Street, Jalan H.S. Lee and Bangsar. 
| |
| ALAN BUKIT BINTANG Bukit Bintang is indisputably one of the city's foremost shopping districts offering a multitude of merchandise to suit everytaste and budget. The cities major shopping outlets are located in this area namely Sungei Wang Plaza, Bukit Bintang Plaza, Imbi Plaza, Lot 10, Starhill Plaza and Kuala Lumpur Plaza. | |
BUKIT BINTANG PLAZA One of KL's oldest shopping centers, Bukit Bintang Plaza still attracts the crowds with its offerings of local and international goods comprising clothes, fashion accessories, footwear, sports goods, electrical equipment, pharmaceutical products, computers and furniture. LOW YAT PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER STARHILL PLAZA | SUNGEI WANG PLAZA Integrated with the adjacent Bukit Bingang Plaza, Sungei Wang Plaza is a magnet for all shoppers in the city. This perennially popular shopping centre houses many retail outlets offering an incredible assortment of goods catering for all tastes and budgets. IMBI PLAZA LOT 10 KUALA LUMPUR PLAZA |
JALAN RAJA CHULAN / JALAN CONLAY
Close to KL Tower, the weld is known for its fashionable boutiques, optical shops, textile retail outlets and perfumeries.
Komplex Budaya Kraf
A handicraft complex at Jalan Conlay, it houses top names is local handicrafts. Here, you can look out for that chic batik outfit, ponder over the variety of home decor items, or delight in finding the perfect gift to bring back home!
On the ground floor of the complex, you can dabble in some paints and wax to create your own batik piece. At the far end of the landscaped grounds is the artists' colony where you can see artists at work or buy their paintings.
The complex is equipped with visitor facilities, including telephone booths and a restaurant.
This stretch of road is flanked on both sides by pre-war buildings whose interesting facades have been preserved and re-adapted for modern businesses, mostly retailing. Walk through the archways of these shops for an immersion into a shopping and cultural experience that goes back several decades. Major shopping centers within this area are.
Sogo A major landmark along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, the Sogo Department Store is modern and well patronized for its quality goods. The selective tenant mix includes fashion boutiques, house-hold famishing, shoes stores, travel agencies, gift shops, cosmetic counters, jewelers and restaurant.Globe Silk Store, Kamdar and Tang Ling | Pertama Complex One of the earlier shopping complexes in the city, it has mid to budget priced items such as sportswear, shoes, handbags, watches, photographic equipment and electronic goods. One of the older shopping centers in town, this complex caters to those looking for budget priced items. Nightmarkets |
| Jalan masjid India
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Located within KL's diplomatic enclave the Jalan Ampang and Jalan Tun Razak area is served by prestigious shopping complexes that boast international names as well as quality local products. Shoppers looking for upmarket merchandise will find numerous outlets here.
Suria KLCC Located in the ultra-modern Kuala Lumpur City Center (KLCC) the Suria Shopping Complex tops the list as one of the city's trendiest and classiest shopping complex. Bright and cheery with a stylized logo of the from which it gets its name, Suria's neighbor is the majestic Petronas Twin Towers, currently the tallest in the world. City Square | Ampang Park Shopping Complex Situated across the road from City Square and Ampang plaza, the Ampang Park Shopping Complex is one of KL's earliest shopping centers. This is reflected in the fine and extensive assortment of goods and services offered, of which photographic items, costume accessories and apparel appeal to its shoppers. Ampang Plaza |
Pewterware Exquisitely crafted pewter items include mugs, goblets, coffee sets, clocks, letter opener and plaques. Leading names are Royal Selangor and Tumasek. They can be found at hotel shopping arcades and shopping complexes.
Songket Songket is Malaysian brocade that is intricately hand-woven with silver or gold threads. Rich and heavily embroidered, the cloth makes superb evening gowns. Buy the material untailored and have it made to measure, or buy songket items such as handbags.
Gold Gold is of high quality here, often 22k. Items of traditional designs or avert grade are available. Jewelers are located at shopping complexes, hotels, city free shops within the city centre.
Brassware Brassware items generally come from the cottage industries in Terengganu. Items include candle stands, vases, ash trays and plaques. Best bought at handicraft centre.
Woodcarvings Woodcarvings, again, those from Kelantan or Terengganu, are of excellent workmanship. Wood figurines of the orang asli (abourigines) also make good buys. As these are bulky items, you can make arrangement with the stores to have them sent home. Shopping complexes stock a good range of such products
.
Food Items Check out the supermarket, grocery stores or pasar malam for locally-produced items such as tea, pepper, prawn crackers and instant food preparations.
Batik Batik combines wax brushing, dyeing, drying and boiling the material which may be silk, cotton, rayon or satin. Batik items include hats, scarves, ties, handkerchiefs, purses, kaftans, shirts, wrap-around skirts, sun dresses, tablecloths, handbags, purses and paintings. The quality of batik varies greatly. Good quality batik are sold at large handicraft centers. 
Pottery Sarawak pottery is ochre-coloured with bold geometric designs. Sayong pottery, from Perak, Has the characteristic glossy black colour. There is even pottery, from Johor, which uses batik and gold thread for a distinctive look. Handicraft centers offer the best variety.
Silk Silk from Cendering, Terengganu is of international quality and makes a good buy. Best bought at a handicraft centre or a specialty shop.
Silverwork Silverwork, especially those from Kelantan, is exquisite. Items to buy are rose bowls, napkin holders, plaques and filigree jewellery. Handicraft centers are again the best choices to buy silverwork.
Basketry Mengkuang leaves (screw pine) woven into table mats, hats, bags and bedroom slippers make attractive and functional items. They are also inexpensive. mengkuang products can be found at handicraft centers.
MALAYSIA FESTIVALS
Chinese New Year.
Chinese New Year Is celebrated over a period of 15 days, beginning from the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar. It is a joyous occasion marked by family reunions, giving of red packets or 'ang pow' by parents to their children or among relatives and well wishers. This practice coupled with the giving away of oranges is intended as a symbol of prosperity and good luck for the recipients. Another feature is the traditional lion dance.
Federal Territory Day.
It was on this day in 1974 that KL was declared a Federal Territory. City dwellers observe the occasion with day-long competitions and performances at the city's main parks such as Lake Gardens and Taman Tasik Titiwangsa.
Thaipusam.
Thaipusam is a day for penance and atonement among the Hindu community. The festival begins with a grand procession in Kuala Lumpur of the silver chariot bearing the statue of Lord Subramaniam. A striking feature of the procession is the sight of thousands of coconuts being thrown on the streets and devotees carrying kavadis or wooden steel yokes with longspikes and metal hooks pierced into their bodies.
Mega Sale Carnival.
Malaysia is famous for its shopping where quality, variety and pricing is hard to beat. Mega Sales Carnival is held three times a year, in March, August and December and discounts galore are offered during these periods.
Wesak Day.
Wesak Day celebrated in May is the most auspicious day in the Buddhist calendar as it marks the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. Celebrations begin before dawn with Buddhist devotees gathering in temples throughout the country. It is a time for prayers, offerings, chanting and alms giving. A significant act at this time is the releasing of doves and tortoises at temples.
Colours of Malaysia.
The rich and intricate potpourri of cultures and traditions reflecting the proud and unique heritage of Malaysia is reflected in this event. This month long event filled with many activities at various venues in Kuala Lumpur is certainly not be missed.
Food & Fruits Fiesta.
Malaysia is endowed with a fabulous range of Asian and International cuisine. Coupled with a plethora of tropical, sub-tropical and even temperate fruits, Malaysia's Food and Fruit Festival offers a divine culinary experience that is difficult to find elsewhere.
Merdeka Eve Celebration 2001 - Kuala Lumpur.
Join in the fun on the eve of the anniversary of Malaysia's national day. A carnival-like atmosphere pervades on this night of mesmerizing dances, dazzling colourful fireworks display and performances by local artistes, culminating in the Merdeka countdown for the raising of the jalur Gemilang at the midnight amidst patriotic Malaysian and tourists cheer the hearty shouts of 'Merdeka'.
National Day.
August 31 marks the nation's national day which is celebrated in Kuala Lumpur at the Dataran Merdeka or Merdeka Square situated in front of the Royal Selangor Club. Thousands of spectators converge on the city to watch the colourful parade along the streets of the city and performances held at the Merdeka Square. However, the celebrations are also rotated among other states.
Deepavali.
Among the Hindus, Deepavali or the Festival of Lights signifies the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated during the 7th month of the Hindu calendar, a traditional oil bath precedes the festivity. The celebration includes visits to temples and prayers at household altars. Hindu homes are adorned with lights or oil lamps to signify the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
A meaningful day of celebration for Muslims to mark the end of Ramadhan or the fasting month. Muslims usher in Hari Raya Aidilfitri with prayers in the mosque and asking forgiveness from family members. It is customary during this occasion for Muslims to open their homes to well-wishers as well as to visit friends and relatives. A special delicacy that is served at this time is Lemang, glutinous rice cooked in bamboo stems.
Christmas.
The festive air of Christmas is prevalent in the city especially in the decorations, caroling and partying during the occasion.
It is best of refer to the entertainment section of local newspapers and check out the newsstand for entertainment publications for the latest on the nightscene. Entertainment establishments are plentiful along Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Ampang, Jalan Sultan Ismal and jalan P. Ramlee, where there are numerous hotels. Nightlife in the city also thrives with the many pubs, street cafés and bistros. Entertainment outlets close at 3am and there are stiff laws against drinking and driving. | |
 DISCOTHEQUESDiscotheques can be found in hotels but there are several independent ones, too. They are usually packed after 10pm and pulsate with activity on Fridays, Saturdays and eves of public holidays. CAFES ORCHESTRAS AND CHOIRS | PUBS AND BISTROS Pubs and bistros offer a relaxed mood with live bands, dinks and snacks. Most pubs are open from late afternoon or evening and close at midnight. Barn Thai, Planet Hollywood, Benson & Hedges Bistro, TGIF (Thank God It's Friday) and Hard Rock Cafe which has been a hit with the locals since it arrived on the Malaysian scene. Bangsar Baru offers numerous choices and even and Irish pub. THEATRES CULTURAL SHOWS |
Cultural shows can be viewed at Central Market. Performances such as Bungsawan (Malay Traditional Theatre), Chinese Opera, Nadagam (Indian Traditional Theatre) start at 7.4pm during weekends. Enquiries: 03-2274 6542 (10am - 10pm). Cultural shows are also available at MTC and at dinner restaurants such as Seri Melayu and Restoran Sri Putra.  Dubbed the Garden City of Lights, Malaysia's capital Kuala Lumpur is often associated with the Petronas Twin Towers, the world's tallest structures; Kuala Lumpur Tower, the world's fourth tallest telecommunications tower; KL Sentral Station, the country's communications hub and city air terminal; international hotels; fabulous shopping; a wide variety of international cuisine and a vibrant night life. Other attractions include numerous British colonial era heritage buildings well-preserved and still in use such as the Sultan Abdul Samad Building: the Islamic Arts Museum, Orchid and Hibiscus Gardens, the National Sports Complex at Bukit Jalil, the National Theatre (Istana Budaya) and Chinatown (Petaling Street).The major shopping centres of Suria KLCC, Mid Valley Megamall, Star Hill, Lot 10 and Sungai Wang Pla/a offer a wide variety of products including branded goods, and Bintang Walk and Bangsar are fashionable centres for night dining and entertainment. Parts of Kuala Lumpur are now served by Light Rail Transit (LRT) and commuter railway, making it easy to travel around the city. |
| Kuala Lumpur - Golf Course | ||
| BUKIT JALIL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Berjaya Golf Resort Bhd. P.O. Box 224 Jalan Kelang Lama, 58700 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603 - 8994 1600 Fax: 603 - 8994 1542 Designer: Max Wexler Description: 18 holes, 6228m, par 72 KELAB GOLF PERKHIDMATAN AWAM KUALA LUMPUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB | THE ROYAL SELANGOR GOLF CLUB Jalan Kelab Golf, 50990 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603 - 984 8433 Fax; 603 - 985 3939 Designer: George Hemmant & Committee (Old Course), Frank Hemmant, Jeffrey Gibb & J.B. Twiss (New Course) Description: 36 holes - Old (6224m, par 72) New (5933m, par 71) KELAB GOLF TITIWANGSA PDRM | SENTUL RAYA GOLF CLUB Jalan Strachan Off Jalan Ipoh 51100 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 03-4041 5068 Fax: 03-4041 5068 Golf course: 9 Holes Golf course designer: Chris Pitman & Douglas Lee KELAB GOLF ANGKATAN TENTERA |
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