Kuala Lumpur's City Center is the tradition heart of Malaysia's capital city, both in terms of administration as well as trade and commerce.
The City Center comprises the former colonial administrative district just west of the
confluence of the Klang and Gombak River, where Kuala Lumpur was founded. At the
heart of the colonial district is Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) where Malaysia's
independence was declared. Many other colonial-era building surround the square. To
the west of the square lies the pretty Lake Gardens while to the south, you'll find the
National Mosque, KL's Moorish-style old railway station, and several museums including
the Islamic Arts Museum and the National Museum.
KL's traditional commercial district lies to the east of the Klang River. The area's narrow
streets are lined with traditional Chinese shops, markets and eateries, and is now
commonly referred to as KL's Chinatown. Although the old pre-World War Two
shophouses are quickly disappearing and being replaced with modern buildings, the
area is still fascinating enough for a wonder. Chinatown is also where you can find
budget accommodation.
Kuala Lumpur is defined within the borders of the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur and
is one of three Malaysian Federal Territories. It is an enclave within the state of Selangor,
on the central west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Residents of the city are known as
KLites.
Beginning in the 1990s, the city has played host to many international sporting, political
and cultural events including the 1998 Commonwealth Games and the Formula One
World Championship. In addition, Kuala Lumpur is home to the tallest twin buildings in
the world, the Petronas Twin Towers
Kuala Lumpur has its origins in the 1850s, when the Malay Chief of Klang, Raja Abdullah,
hired some Chinese labourers to open new and larger tin mines.[13] They landed at the
confluence of Sungai Gombak and Sungai Klang (Klang River) to open mines at Ampang.
[13] Sungai Gombak was previously known as Sungai Lumpur, which means muddy
river. The city thus derived the name Kuala Lumpur which literally means “muddy
confluence” in Bahasa Malaysia. Later, tin mines were opened at Pudu and Batu. Among
the early notable pioneers are Hiu Siew and Liu Ngim Kong.
These mines became a trading post and was considered a frontier town with many
problems including the Selangor Civil War; it was also plagued by diseases and constant
fires and floods. Around the 1870s, the Chinese Kapitan of Kuala Lumpur, Yap Ah Loy,
emerged as leader, and became responsible for the survival and subsequent systematic
growth of this town. In 1880, the state capital of Selangor was moved from Klang to the
more strategically advantageous Kuala Lumpur.
After the fire and subsequent flood of 1881 destroyed the town's structures of wood and
atap (thatching), Frank Swettenham, the British Resident of Selangor, required that
buildings be constructed of brick and tile. Many of the new brick buildings mirrored that of
shop houses in southern China, with "five foot ways" as well as skilled Chinese
carpentry. This resulted in a distinct eclectic shop house architecture typical to this region.
A railway line increased accessibility. Development intensified in the 1890s, leading to
the creation of a Sanitary Board. In 1896, Kuala Lumpur was chosen as the capital of the
newly formed Federated Malay States.
PLACE TO VISIT
Merdeka Square - Merdeka Square has a special place in the hearts of all
Malaysian as it was here that the Union Jack was lowered for last time in 1957 and
Malaysia gained her independence. Standing tall here is also one of the tallest flag poles
in the world, measuring in at 100m. Surrounding the area are host of historical structures
like Sultan Abdul Samad building (see below) and the Old City Hall. The Royal Selangor
Club and St. Mary's Cathedral are two famous landmarks nearby.
Sultan Abdul Samad Building - Originally the offices of the Colonial
Secretariat, they later served as the first administrative centre of the Malayan government.
Built in 1848 by British architects, A C Norman and A B Hubback, this historical landmark
is famed for its Islamic-inspired architecture. Today, it houses the Courts of Law. The 40-
metre high clock tower is a popular gathering-point for New Year and National Day
countdown celebrations and parades.
Jamek Mosque (Masjid Jamek) - Located at the convergence of the Klang and
Gombak rivers is the stately Masjid Jamek, one of the oldest mosques in the city since its
construction in 1909. Inspired by the Mogul mosque in North India, this building's notable
features are three elegant domes which dominated the KL skyline long before the
popularity of skyscrapers.
National Monument (Tugu Negara) - Jalan Tugu Off Jalan Parlimen - This
immense bronze structure was built as a memorial to the soldiers who gave up their lives
for their country. This sculpture depicts seven soldiers holding the Malaysian flag, each
symbolising one of seven qualities; unity, strength, leadership, sacrifice, courage,
suffering and vigilance. It was sculpted by Felix de Weldon, who sculpted the famed Iwo
Jima Memorial statue in Virginia, United States.
Masjid Negara - Jalan Perdana - The Masjid Negara is unique in that it
incorporates Malay-Islamic rather than the usual Arabic-Islamic architecture. It is known
for its conspicuous turquoise umbrella-like roof. A yellow umbrella is usually part of the
royal regalia of the sultans of Malay kingdoms.
National Museum - Contains exhibits on traditional life among the various ethnic
communities of Malaysia, numerous well-explained artifacts including fine clothing and
shadow puppets, and a sizeable natural history section showing the range of flora and
fauna native to the country. A visit to this museum can help you to understand more about
Malaysian history, culture, and nature.
Islamic Arts Museum - One of the most interesting museums in KL, the Islamic
Arts Museum houses both modern and traditional Malaysia as part of the larger Islamic
world and, through exhibitions of objects of religious and aesthetic significance, shows
both the connection of Malaysian Islamic culture to the Muslim lands to its west and its
uniqueness.
The National Planetarium - the attractions here include space science and
astronomy exhibits, a theatre screening 3-Dimensional movies, a viewing gallery and an
observatory.
Istana Negara (National Palace) - The Istana Negara is the official residence
of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the constitutional monarch and paramount ruler of
Malaysia, which is a largely ceremonial post. Built in 1928 by a Chinese millionaire and
occupied by Japanese officers during the Japanese occupation of Malaya, the palace,
which sits on a 11.34 hectare site, was bought by the federal government at
independence in 1957 and has since then undergone extensive renovations to become
what it is today. Visitors can witness the changing of the guards daily from the main gate.
The palace is not open to the public.
Sze Ya Temple, Jalan Tun HS Lee - The oldest Chinese temple in Kuala
Lumpur built in 1882, it is located behind the old shophouses between Jalan Tun HS Lee
and Jalan Hang Kasturi. The temple is dedicated to Shen Kong, worshipped as the
guardian deity for the local Chinese miners and houses several other deities, including
the deified Yap Ah Loy, third Kapitan Cina of KL. The ornate interior and elaborate roof
ridges are typical of religious Chinese architecture and visitors can still see patrons
conducting worship to the gods and the ancestors.
Sri Mahamariamman Temple - An elaborate Hindu temple known as the
starting point of the yearly Thaipusam pilgrimage to the Batu Caves, where Hindu
devotees haul portable altars pierced to their skin with 108 lances. Check out the
elaborate gopuram above the entrance. Free admission (but donations welcome).
Petronas Twin Towers - Until recently the tallest buildings in the world, they are
now second only to the newly built Taipei 101 building in Taipei (the capital of Taiwan),
but are still among the most spectacular. Visitors may pick up passes to marvel at the
view from the Skybridge (level 41-42), one of the highest suspended bridges in the world.
Entry is free but limited to the first 1200 who show up, so get there early (best is 7:45 to 8:
00 AM) because available tickets are usually snapped up by 11:00. Open 08:30 to 17:00
daily except Monday. In general you have about 10 minutes at the Skybridge. The view is
not particularly inspiring and note that you are only permitted to spend around ten
minutes up there.
Petrosains, KLCC - An exhibit of the science and technology behind the petroleum
industry and more. A great place to bring kids, but not too high on the agenda for older
folks.
KL Tower - The observation deck on the top floor provides great city views, and you'll
be a few meters higher than the Twin Towers since the tower is built on a hill. Entry to the
observation deck costs RM20 and is open from 9 AM to 10 PM daily; for a free bonus,
check out the wonderfully bombastic free film on the tower's construction, screened in a
little cinema on the tower ground floor. It is possible to get to the revolving restaurant
which is one floor above the observation deck but only by dining there. There is free
shuttle bus service from the main gate to the base of the tower, though number of seats
in the bus is very limited. There is also a Hackett Bungee ride for RM30 which operates at
the base of KL Tower.
Thean Hou Temple - The Thean Hou temple is one of the largest and most ornate
Chinese temples in the region. The six-tiered temple was built by the Hainanese
community and is dedicated to Tian Hou, or The Heavenly Mother. But, as an example of
the syncreticism of Chinese religion, also houses two other altars, one for Shui Wei
Sheng Niang, the Goddess of the Waterfront and another for Kuan Yin, the Buddhist
Goddess of Mercy. Its grand architecture and fantastic view of the Valley make it a tourist
favourite.
Malaysian Houses of Parliament - is a building complex where the Malaysian
Parliament assembles. The structure is located at the Perdana Lake Garden in Kuala
Lumpur, right next to the Malaysian national monument, the Tugu Negara.
The complex comprises two parts, a 3-storey main building and a 17-storey tower. The
main building hosts the Dewan Rakyat and the Dewan Negara while representatives'
offices are located in the tower.
Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) - is a main convention and exhibition
centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It was constructed on 1981 and completed on 1984.
The building was officially opened on 2 September 1985 by Malaysian prime minister that
time Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad during the first UMNO General Assembly. This building
is also used for the International Quran Reading Competition every year since it was
moved from Stadium Merdeka on 1985.
Makam Pahlawan - is the burial ground of several Malaysian leaders and
politicians. It is located near the Malaysian national mosque, Masjid Negara in the
national capital, Kuala Lumpur. Construction of the mausoleum began in 1963 under its
project of the construction of Masjid Negara and was completed in 1965. Makam
Pahlawan is a 7-pointed star concrete roofed structure. In 1973, Tun Dr Ismail became
the first Malaysian leader laid to rest here.
Eye on Malaysia - is the tallest portable observation wheel in South-East Asia. The
60-metre structure is located at Titiwangsa Lake Gardens, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The ferris wheel comprising of 42 gondolas (including 1 VIP one) is similar to the London
Eye and has been unveiled in conjunction of Visit Malaysia Year 2007 on January 6, 2007
by Malaysian Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
Zoo Negara - is a major zoological park in Malaysia located on 120 acres of land in
Ulu Klang, near Taman Melawati on the north-east of Kuala Lumpur. It was officially
opened on November 14, 1963. The park is managed by a non-governmental
organization known as the Malaysian Zoological Society. Fully funded by its gate
collection, Zoo Negara greatly relies on the support from donors and sponsors.
This zoo has about 5137 animals of 459 different species.
Batu Caves - is a limestone hill in the Gombak district, north of Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia which has a series of caves and cave temples. It takes its name from the
Sungai Batu or Batu River, which flows past the hill. Batu Caves is also the name of the
nearby village. The cave is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India.
Hard Rock Cafe - is a chain of casual dining restaurants. It was founded in 1971 by
Isaac Tigrett and Peter Morton, and their first Hard Rock Cafe opened near Hyde Park
Corner in London, in a former Rolls Royce car dealerships showroom close to Hyde
Park, where in 1979 they began to cover the walls with rock 'n' roll ephemera.
WHAT TO DO
KL is the type of city where the first things that come to mind when you talking of doing
anything is "eating" and "shopping", both of which are adequately covered by the Eat and
Buy sections.
Those activities aside, KL has its fair share of sporting opportunities such as golfing,
cycling, running, jogging and even equestrian. If you’re into rock climbing, the Batu Caves
in Northern Kuala Lumpur is a popular weekend haunt of those wanting to scale some
heights. However, for anything more strenuous and challenging, you’re better of heading
to other spots in country.
Malaysia is trying to encourage greater cultural expression and KL has several good
theatres and places for performances, such as the National Theatre (Istana Budaya) and
KL Performing Arts Centre (KLPac) in the northern part of he city, the KL Philharmonic in
KLCC, and the Actors Studio in Bangsar.
You can also get a good dosage of pampering in KL. For those in search of spas, there
are several five-star hotel-connected as well as independent treatment centers in the
Golden Triangle. You’ll also find heaps of reflexology and foot massage places
everywhere but especially in Bukit Bintang in the Golden Triangle and Chinatown.
HOW TO REACH
By plane - Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) All scheduled jet flights, whether
domestic or international, arrive at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport located about
50km to the southwest of Kuala Lumpur, in the Sepang district of Selangor. The US$2.5
bil modern structure of glass and steel was inaugurated in 1998 and has been ranked as
one of the top airports of the world. It replaced the former Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah
International Airport in Subang, which is now used for chartered and turboprop flights.
Over 50 airlines call at KLIA.
From KLIA: Only Airport Limo limousines and budget taxis are allowed to pick up
passengers at the airport. You buy coupons from Airport Limo counters just before you
exit the international arrivals gate, or just outside the domestic arrivals gate. Ask for a
budget taxi, which is perfectly fine and costs a fixed RM67.40 to get to Kuala Lumpur;
otherwise you'll be given a misnamed "limousine" that costs an extra RM20.
Subang Airport The Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport , more commonly referred to as the
Subang Airport, was the country's main international airport until KLIA was opened in
1998. It was designated for turboprop aircraft and since 19 October 2007, Malaysia
Airlines subsidiary "community airline" Firefly began operating from Subang, flying to
Penang twice daily at 08:20 and 20:50. From Penang, flights depart at 07:00 and 19:30.
Journey time one hour. Berjaya Air flies daily to/from Tioman Island, five times a week
to/from Pangkor Island, and special flights to Redang Island. It also has two flights
weekly to/from Ko Samui in Thailand.
Getting there/away: The airport is 25 km from the city center and the best way to get there
is by taxi. Rapid KL bus U81 (destination Mah Sing and Pekan Subang) from the Sultan
Mohd Bus Hub next to the Pasar Seni LRT station goes past the airport. Fare is RM2 and
the ticket is valid for the whole day for all RapidKL routes with "U" prefix.
By road - Most important roads in Peninsular Malaysia lead to/from Kuala Lumpur.
The city lies about midway along the North-South Expressway (NSE; route numbers E1
and E2) which runs from the Malaysia-Thailand border at Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah to
Johor Bahru in the south, on the Malaysian side of the Causeway to Singapore. The main
expressway exits for Kuala Lumpur on the NSE are Jalan Duta (from the north) and
Sungai Besi (from the south).
The Karak Highway (E8), which later turns into the East Coast Expressway, links Kuala
Lumpur with the East Coast states of Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan.
For those who do not want to pay toll, Kuala Lumpur is on Federal Route One (the "Trunk
Road") which, like the NSE, runs through all West Coast states of Peninsular Malaysia
from Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah to Johor Bahru.
Those travelling along the West Coast Road (Federal Route Five) should leave the road
at Klang and get to Kuala Lumpur via the Federal Highway.
By Bus - Kuala Lumpur has several bus terminals (Malay: stesen bas or hentian)
which handle long distance express bus services; many destinations are served by more
than one terminal.
Puduraya The biggest (and invariably most crowded) terminal, located in the city centre
near Chinatown. Beware of pickpockets, ticket touts and other undesirables, especially
late at night.
Access: Plaza Rakyat station (Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines) is within walking distance; many local bus stops nearby.
Hentian Putra Most (but not all) East Coast services use this terminal which is located to
the north of the city centre on Jalan Putra.
Access: PWTC station (Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines) and Putra station (both KTM
Komuter lines) are within walking distance.
Hentian Duta Many north-bound Transnasional express buses use this terminal which is
located a distance to the west of the city centre on Jalan Duta.
Note that Airport Coach buses to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) no longer use
this terminal - they now use KL Sentral instead.
Access: the only convenient way is by taxi.
By train - KTM's intercity trains arrive at the new KL Sentral railway station, located
(despite the name) a fair distance to the south of the city center. Take the Putra LRT or KL
Monorail to The city center, or RM10 coupon taxi to most destinations in the city center.
Most services are available at the station, including showers (RM5 for shower only, RM15
if you want a towel & toiletries too).
By boat - Kuala Lumpur is not located by the sea. However, there are ferry
connections to/from Sumatra (Indonesia) at Port Klang, about 40 km west of Kuala
Lumpur. See the Port Klang article for details on how to get there.
