KL Dazzling
Treasure Troves
Connoisseurs of the arts and crafts will find a wide selection of places to pursue their passion. The city’s museums, memorials and art galleries showcase a captivating collection of objets d’ art and paintings. Special events and exhibitions are held from time-to-time to showcase the exquisite art pieces from around the country and all over the world.
MUSEUMS
Travel back to the past, to the days when KL was founded at the confluence of two muddy rivers. Or, journey back in time to the days of the Morse Code telegraph or even the barter trade. Let these museums unravel and bring to life the interesting facets of KL’s rich history.
National Museum
Jalan Damansara
Malaysia’s premier museum serves as a repository for the nation’s rich history and heritage. Built in 1963, its façade features a Minangkabau-styled roof and two impressive front murals. The museum has four main galleries. Among the highlights here are the collection of keris or the Malay dagger, ceramics from the Ming Dynasty and traditional musical instruments from various parts of Asia. Thematic exhibitions are held from time to time.
Malay World Ethnology Museum
Jalan Damansara
Gain an insight into the heritage and legacy of the Malay world. This gallery showcases a collection of the finest and most uncommon exhibits that are associated with the Malay history and civilisation, sourced from various parts of the region such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Cambodia. It is situated within the grounds of the National Museum.
Islamic Arts Museum
Jalan Lembah Perdana
The museum provides an insight into the beauty of Islamic arts and the great civilisation that inspired it. The various themed galleries exhibit priceless treasures. Highlights include the Islamic Architecture Gallery which showcases replicas of famous buildings such as the Taj Mahal in India, Masjid Al-Haram Mosque in Mecca as well as the Amir Timur Mausoleum in Uzbekistan.
Cultural Craft Museum
Jalan Conlay
Located within the Craft Complex, the museum offers fascinating glimpses into the history and development of Malaysian crafts. Life-sized dioramas feature artisans at work.
Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery
Sasana Kijang, 2, Jalan Dato Onn
Here you can learn about money through interactive and computerised games, and obtain interesting facts and information on money. The Art Gallery showcases the Central Bank’s collection of Malaysian and Southeast Asian art acquired since 1962. There are four galleries; Economics Gallery, Islamic Finance Gallery, Numismatics Gallery and Children’s Gallery.
Jade Museum
No. 26, Jalan Delima, off Jalan Imbi
The Jade Museum displays a collection of antiques as well as accessories such as exquisite brooches, rings, earrings, necklaces and many more. Gifts and souvenirs are available for purchase.
National Telecommunications Museum (Muzium Telekom)
Junction of Jalan Raja Chulan and Jalan Gereja
This museum chronicles 120 years of telecommunications development, from the early days of the Morse Code telegraph to the digital networks of today.
Maybank Numismatic Museum
1st Floor, Maybank Tower, Jalan Tun Perak
This museum houses an impressive collection of coins and notes from the early days of Malaya until the present time.
National Textile Museum
26, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin
The museum traces the trends and developments in the textile industry since the olden days to the present. A multimedia presentation provides more information on the textile production and techniques in Malaysia.
Orang Asli Crafts Museum
Jalan Damansara
This museum showcases the lifestyle, culture and traditions of the Orang Asli, or Malaysia’s indigenous people. Among the interesting items on display are the native musical instruments, costumes, weapons, masks, sculptures and coffins.
Muzium Diraja (Royal Museum)
Jalan Istana
This museum is housed in a building that was formerly the National Palace. Visitors can get a glimpse into the inner sanctum of the royal family for the first time since it was built 85 years ago.
Royal Malaysian Air Force Museum
Royal Malaysian Air Force Base, Jalan Lapangan Terbang Lama
Royal Malaysian Police Museum
No. 5, Jalan Perdana
GALLERIES
For lovers of the art and craft, the city’s galleries give an insight into the lighter and finer side of things. From paintings to sculptures, these exhibits are a delight to explore.
Kuala Lumpur City Gallery
Jalan Raja, Dataran Merdeka
Get an insight into Kuala Lumpur through an interesting collection of prints, miniatures and photographs. The gallery is situated in a 114-year old Moorish styled building, located at the historical enclave of Dataran Merdeka. Visitors can view a collection of beautiful art pieces and miniatures, modelled after the city’s heritage buildings and landmarks. Highlights include the Spectacular City Model Show, the first-of-its-kind in Southeast Asia. Visitors should not miss the Arch Gift Shop for a range of premium gifts and souvenirs. Interested visitors can join the DIY workshop to assemble their own souvenirs.
National Art Gallery
2, Jalan Temerloh, off Jalan Tun Razak
Situated impressively along Jalan Temerloh in between the National Library and the Palace of Culture, this is the country’s premier venue for local and touring exhibitions. It displays paintings, sculptures and other works of leading Malaysian and international artists. Its unique spiral passageway provides an excellent view of the exhibits.
Petronas Art Gallery
Level 3, Suria KLCC (Ampang Mall Wing)
This gallery, situated at the base of the Petronas Twin Towers, has an interesting display of paintings, sculptures and contemporary art pieces. View the works of homegrown and international artistes.
Malaysia Cartoon & Comic House
Jalan Cenderawasih
Resembling a museum, this house has an assortment of cartoons and comics since the advent of cartoons in Malaysia. Visitors can browse the history of cartoons and comics in Malaysia from the pre-war era to the current trend of animations. There are about 500 original works of famous cartoonists such as Rejabhad, Lat, Mishar, Jaafar Taib and Zainal Buang Hussein.
MEMORIALS
They are our heroes, our valiant soldiers, our respected statesmen and our much-loved artists. To know more about these outstanding figures who have helped to shape the country to what it is today, make a visit to these memorials.
National Monument
Jalan Parlimen
Situated overlooking the KL Lake Gardens, the huge bronze monument was built to pay tribute to the valiant soldiers who gave their lives defending the country during the Communist Insurgency in the 1950s. It was designed by Felix de Weldon, the architect of the famous Iwo Jima Memorial.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Memorial
Jalan Dato’ Onn
This memorial was established in honour of Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, Malaysia’s first Prime Minister (1957 – 1970) fondly known as ‘the Father of Independence’. He is best remembered for his role in gaining independence for the country. The memorial serves as a permanent custodian for all his archival, museum and library materials.
Tun Abdul Razak Memorial
Sri Taman, Jalan Perdana
The memorial is housed within Sri Taman, once the residence of Tun Abdul Razak, Malaysia’s second Prime Minister (1970 – 1976). He was hailed as the ‘Father of Development’ for his role in the development of modern Malaysia. This historical building exhibits library materials, personal belongings as well as gifts and souvenirs presented by leaders around the world. The memorial is situated close to the Bird Park in Perdana Botanical Gardens.
Galeria Sri Perdana
Jalan Damansara
Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad is well-known for his vision and foresight in accelerating the nation’s development. Sri Perdana was the Premier’s official residence for 16 years before it was shifted to Putrajaya. It now houses his personal collections and artefacts.
P.Ramlee Memorial Library
22, Jalan Dedap, Taman P.Ramlee
The late Tan Sri P.Ramlee – actor, director, singer and composer extraordinaire – was known for his invaluable contributions to the music and film industry. This memorial houses various exhibits and audio visual materials pertaining to his life and artistic achievements.
