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The Glossary

tamu - "local market in Malaysia usually open during Sundays."

From Malaysia Glossary

Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide

/ Asia / Malaysia / Kuala Lumpur / Introduction

Photograph by:
chinxlexy - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur or KL is Malaysia's showroom to the world as it summarizes Malaysia's diverse cultures, culinary wonders and festivals in its 244-square-kilometer plain. Nestled on the southwestern shores of Peninsular Malaysia, KL is the country's capital and fastest-growing metropolitan region in terms of population and economy. As such, the city is home to relentless progress and diverse cultural threads, woven together by people of Malay, Chinese, and Indian descent.

Architectural feats

KL's crowning glory is Petronas Twin Towers, the world's tallest twin towers. The towers' architecture bespeak of the country's rootedness in its Islamic heritage as well as its focus on modernity and the future. Apart from Petronas, KL Tower has also become a tourist site, featuring a revolving restaurant on topmost floor, giving diners a panoramic view of the city.

Pockets of green

The Aquaria KLCC, on other hand, reveals a rich marine life for the land-bound: a walk through the 90-meter underground tunnel gives guests a close encounter with sharks, stingrays and gropers. A stroll on the Lake Gardens and Bird Park is a more relaxed alternative in getting to know the city.

Food and shopping spree

Those who want to explore the low-key side of KL can proceed to Little India, where stores offer both tourists and locals a variety of Indian products, foods, as well as music. The city also has its own Chinatown, more popularly known as Petaling Street. Its various restaurants offer visitors a unique gastronomic experience through fusion cuisine.

Another tourist delight is Kampung Baru, located at the heart of the city, where wooden houses stand side-by-side with the concrete and modern apartments. The place is popular for the Pasar Minggu (Sunday market) that operates from early evening until the wee hours.

Conservative yet modern

Just like the rest of the country, KL's populace is predominantly Muslim, adhering faithfully to Islamic doctrines. They are, however, progressive in their idea of modernization and tolerance. Islamic Arts Museum offers an opportunity for racial, cultural and religious sensitivity.