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At Malaya Travel, our love for Kuala Lumpur knows no bounds. Those who have already traveled with us, know that very well! While it's true that the city's main attractions can be explored in just a few days, Kuala Lumpur's allure extends far beyond its landmarks. It's a bustling metropolis with a fantastic charm that welcomes every visitor no matter where you are coming from. The moment you arrive, a sense of belonging develops in you, and so many of us never want to leave. Additionally, the city serves as a launchpad for numerous daily excursions, each exploring the unique facets of Malaysia's beauty. In this article, we would like to show you some of our favorite, newish, or lesser-known sites in KL that we highly recommend incorporating into your tours.
Saloma Link & Kampong Bharu: Bridging the Past and Present
Our journey begins at the Saloma Link, a pedestrian and cyclist bridge seamlessly connecting the historic village of Kampung Baru to the modern Kuala Lumpur City Centre. This architectural marvel not only shortens the journey between these two worlds but also provides a stunning vantage point to admire the majestic Petronas Towers. A symbol of connectivity and progress, the Saloma Link is a testament to Malaysia's ability to seamlessly blend the old and the new.
As you step into the Kampong Bharu neighborhood, you’ll discover a haven of traditional Malay charm amidst towering structures. It is one of the few bastions of traditional Malay heritage in the heart of KL. Wandering through the narrow lanes of Kampung Baru is like stepping into a bygone era. The traditional Malay wooden stilt houses, surrounded by coconut palms and banana trees, exude a rustic charm that is a stark contrast to the modernity surrounding the area. Chickens and goats freely roam the lanes, adding to the rural ambiance, while street stalls entice passersby with delectable offerings like grilled fish and refreshing dragon fruit smoothies. Excited about trying some of the best Malay dishes? Why not skip Jalan Alor and head to Kampung Baru for a traditional old-school feel?
Kwai Chai Hong: The Artistic Heart of Chinatown
A hidden gem has emerged in the heart of Kuala Lumpur's bustling Chinatown, breathing new life into the age-old charm of the district. This new attraction in Kuala Lumpur, Kwai Chai Hong, also known as Lorong Panggung, underwent a remarkable transformation in the last years, thanks to the passion project spearheaded by Bai Chuan Management. Once a bleak and overlooked alley, it now proudly showcases the heritage of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown through vibrant street art and murals. As you stroll through Kwai Chai Hong, the colorful murals transport you back in time, depicting scenes from 1960's Chinatown, making it an Instagrammable haven for visitors.
This popular street offers a diverse culinary experience as well: restaurants, cafes, and bars that line Lorong Panggung and Jalan Petaling are inviting you inside with enticing oriental aromas and flavors. Among the popular choices is ChoCha Foodstore, nestled hidden along the row. Beyond its unassuming facade lies a place that resonates with nostalgia and old-school charm. The name "chocha," meaning "sit and drink tea" in Hakka, perfectly captures the essence of this hidden gem. Without a doubt, Chinatown embraces its new renaissance. Whether you're a local looking to reconnect with the city's history or a tourist seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Kwai Chai Hong promises a delightful journey through time and taste.
The Royal Selangor Visitor Centre: Discovering Artistry and Craftsmanship
As the world's most famous pewter crafts and manufacturing company, Royal Selangor welcomes visitors to explore the rich heritage and intricate processes behind this timeless art form. Malaysia's historical ties to tin mining, which gained prominence in the 19th century, are artfully displayed at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre. The exhibition pays homage to Malaysia's national art, showcasing the evolution of pewter craftsmanship as a result of the country's high concentration of tin. Each Royal Selangor piece, with its elegant sculptural presence, is crafted from high-quality cast pewter adhering to the highest international standards. It isn't just a museum; it's an interactive odyssey that engages the senses through sight, touch, and sound. The modern glass-clad foyer, surrounded by lush landscapes, sets the stage for a captivating experience. The Pewter Museum showcases traditional pewtersmithing tools, antique pewter, and even ancient tin currency, providing a historical context to the craft. The well-designed space seamlessly combines interactive exhibits, galleries, a factory, and a retail store, providing a comprehensive look into the world of pewter manufacturing.
Journey Back in Time: Exploring Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman
In the heart of bustling Kuala Lumpur, where skyscrapers define the skyline, there lies a serene oasis that offers a glimpse into Malaysia's rich cultural heritage - Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman. This meticulously restored traditional Malay house, dating back to the early 20th century, stands as a testament to the beauty of Malay vernacular architecture. Originally built in stages between 1910 and the early 1930s in Kampung Sungai Kechil, a small village in Kedah, Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman has a storied past as the residence of the local headman of Mukim Bagan Samak, Bandar Baharu. Rescued from its original location, the house was painstakingly relocated and restored. is a masterpiece of traditional Malay architecture. Its wooden structure, built with meticulous detail, showcases the craftsmanship of a bygone era. The house is a living museum, reflecting the lifestyle and cultural nuances of early 20th-century Malaysia. Visitors to Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman can partake in guided tours that provide a comprehensive overview of the house and the Malay lifestyle. Each tour, lasting approximately 30 minutes, unveils the intricacies of the traditional dwelling. For those seeking a deeper dive, an optional 20-minute video showcases the remarkable journey of relocating and restoring the house to its current glory.
Merdeka 118: Touching the Skies
Elevating Kuala Lumpur's skyline to new heights, Merdeka 118 stands tall as a 118-story megatall skyscraper. Soaring to a majestic height of 678.9 m (2,227 ft), it proudly holds the title of the second-tallest building and structure globally, second only to the Burj Khalifa. The name 'Merdeka,' meaning 'independence' in Malay, pays homage to its proximity to Stadium Merdeka. The completion of the spire in December 2022 marked its final towering height, making it not just the tallest building in Malaysia but also in Southeast Asia. Surpassing landmarks like Exchange 106 and Landmark 81, Merdeka 118 is the symbol of Malaysia's progress as a nation. The building is designed with a unique mixture of diamond-shaped glass facades, symbolizing the diversity of Malaysians. Inspired by Tunku Abdul Rahman's outstretched hand gesture while chanting 'Merdeka!' during the proclamation of Malaysia's independence on August 31, 1957, the design beautifully weaves historical significance into its modern architecture.
As you marvel at the skyline dominated by Merdeka 118, don't miss the opportunity to explore the mall beneath the tower which is already open. Spanning approximately one million sq ft, it's a spectacular fusion of historic and contemporary elements in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The mall features the largest shopping mall dome in Malaysia, offering a stunning backdrop for memorable photos. Beyond its architectural grandeur, Merdeka 118's mall boasts a diverse culinary scene. From breakfast to dinner, local and international al fresco restaurants cater to all tastes. The Malaysian Artisan District, a curated retail floor, is a culinary haven dedicated to Malaysian cuisine and heritage products.