Established in 1857 at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers, Kuala Lumpur (KL) is one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. The city began as a mining settlement in the late 1800’s with the discovery of tin. Its impressire skyline includes the world’s tallest twin towers, the old Moorish styled rauway station and numerous mosques, temples and churches.Rapid infrastructural growth over time has not diminished KLs garden city image. Beautifully landscaped parks and an abundance of greenery have been retained to provide the city’s green lungs.
The other essential component of KL is the soul of its people who give the city its distinctive and truly Asian character. English is widely spoken and locals are typically obliging when approached by tourists loolung for directions. Visitors will enjoy a wonderful time in KL and are advised to respect cultural norms and sensitives.
Kuala Lumpur is a city of contrasts. While Malaysians are justly proud of their new structures, older buildings also appeal, its architectural heritage includes Moorish styled edifices, stately colonial buildings and old a shophouses. Modern offices and condominiums tower overhead.
There are many places of interest in KL which can be accessed easily as distances between tbem are near, its possible to discover the capital by organised tours of public heritage walking trails produced by the Heritage of Malaysia Trust (Badan Warisan Malaysia) is available from tourist information centres around the city.
Merdeka (Independence) Square is a good starting point to explore KL. Here the national flag flies atop a 100m flagpole, the tallest in the world. Within the square is a field fronting the Royal Selangor Club where Malaysians converge every year to celebrate independence. Formerly known as the Selangor Club Padang (Selangor Club Field), it was extensively used for cricket, hockey, tennis and rugby matches.
Opposite is the ornate Sultan Abdul Samad Building, built in 1897 with Moorish features, clock tower and copper domes. Beautifully illuminated at night, this well-known landmark in KL was formerly the Secretariat building for the British administration. It is now the venue of the Supreme and High Court.
The pace of KL’s Chinatown builds throughout the day and really picks up after 4 p.m., when the day’s heat breaks and the night hawkers come out with their portable stands selling clothing, watches and souvenirs. It’s a good place to find cheap eats.
Lots of vendors, hawkers, etc. make this a great people watching place. Be prepared to be persistently pursued by vendors; saying “Just browsing” won’t work here. That being said though, it’s a neat place to see, and they have a covering over Petaling Street, which protects you somewhat from the elements.