Mesmerising Malaysia

As global businesses hop into the Islamic finance bandwagon, decision makers increasingly find themselves setting their feet in Kuala Lumpur, one of the world’s fastest growing cities.

Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of Malaysia’s key political, commercial and social features. From mosques to mega-malls to mega-bucks, the city boasts a vibrant cultural and business tapestry.

For shoppers, Kuala Lumpur offers a fusion of traditional Asian cultures and cutting-edge panache across more than sixty shopping malls.

For a more authentic experience, head to Jalan Petaling Stree in the city’s downtown district, this thriving Chinatown hub is one of the places to rub elbows with locals, as well as visitors indulging in authentic Chinese dishes at reasonable prices. Merdeka Square is also worth a visit – a former centre of British administration for the region, businessmen and politicians rubbed shoulders and sealed deals here once upon a time.

The square will lead you to the Central Market, which first opened as a wet market a century ago but has now broadened to become home of all things exotic and Malaysian.

Amongst the hustle and bustle of the city, it is not difficult to become lost in the streets and Menara KL telecommunication towers is an ideal place to get your bearings. The views from the observation deck and the city’s famed revolving restaurant stretch miles into the distance.

Once the sun goes down, catch a cab south to the area known as the Golden Triangle, with Jalam Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail at its core. Shuffle a move or two with the smartly dressed youth of the city at bars and nightclubs as intense as any in New York or Berlin.

HIGHLIGHTS

Feast Village

Feast Village is an enticing mini-metroplis of restaurants representing a panorama of the world’s cuisine. From tapas to Thai to Texas steaks, this is no ordinary mall food court, but rather multifarious gourmet dining in unique individual settings. Be sure to stay after dinner to enjoy the live nightly entertainment.

The Pavilion

Spread over 1.3 million square feet, the Pavilion is the Rodeo Drive of Malaysia with brands such as Gucci, Versace, Bulgari and more across a total of over 450 stores.

It is also home of the Pavilion Crystal Fountain, the tallest Liuli Crystal Fountain in the country according to the Malaysian Book of Records.

Batu Caves

The focal point of the Hindu festival of Thaipusam in Malaysia, the cave is one of the most popular Hindu shrines
outside India. Rising almost 100 metres above the ground, Batu Caves temple complex consists of three main caves and a few smaller ones. To reach it, visitors have to climb a steep flight of 272 steps.