Old-world charm of capital city
DOWNTOWN Kuala Lumpur boasts heritage buildings and structures which enrich its cultural tapestry.
One way to catch these sights is on Colonial Walk, which is part of the city's River of Life project to revitalise the Klang and Gombak rivers, transforming them into vibrant public spaces.
A nice starting point is the confluence of the rivers.
Meandering along, the trail takes in the old court buildings which lead to Dataran Merdeka.
Around the square, which hosts one of the tallest flag poles in the world, Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad takes pride of place.
However, the surrounding buildings dating from the late 19th century and early 20th century are no less impressive.
These include St Mary's Cathedral, as well as buildings that house the Royal Selangor Club, Kuala Lumpur Library, National Textile Museum, KL City Gallery (the old government printing office) and old post office.
While some of these structures are undergoing restoration work, a walking excursion still offers an opportunity to revel in these monuments to Malaysia's history.
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The Star
5 days ago
- The Star
Old-world charm of capital city
Dataran Merdeka with one of the tallest flagpoles in the world, surrounded by buildings telling the story of Malaysia's history. — Photos: SAMUEL ONG, CHAN TAK KONG, RAJA FAISAL HISHAN, IZZRAFIQ ALIAS, AZLINA ABDULLAH and WILLIAM GARY/The Star DOWNTOWN Kuala Lumpur boasts heritage buildings and structures which enrich its cultural tapestry. One way to catch these sights is on Colonial Walk, which is part of the city's River of Life project to revitalise the Klang and Gombak rivers, transforming them into vibrant public spaces. A nice starting point is the confluence of the rivers. Meandering along, the trail takes in the old court buildings which lead to Dataran Merdeka. Around the square, which hosts one of the tallest flag poles in the world, Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad takes pride of place. However, the surrounding buildings dating from the late 19th century and early 20th century are no less impressive. These include St Mary's Cathedral, as well as buildings that house the Royal Selangor Club, Kuala Lumpur Library, National Textile Museum, KL City Gallery (the old government printing office) and old post office. While some of these structures are undergoing restoration work, a walking excursion still offers an opportunity to revel in these monuments to Malaysia's history.
The Star
25-04-2025
- The Star
Seven ways to unwind in Putrajaya
After a long week at work, people often want to spend quality time with family and friends, unwinding over fun activities or a nice meal. Most may know Putrajaya as the country's administrative capital but to its residents, the city also has a more enjoyable side. Amid the bustling city, which is known for its modern architecture, are several recreational areas catering to different interests. The city also has dedicated green spaces filled with flora and fauna for residents and visitors to explore. Here are some places to hang out, have fun or just discover while you are in the city. Ayer@8 Where: Precinct 8 Fee: Free entry Visitors enjoying leisure time with family and friends at Ayer@8, Putrajaya - Putrajaya Corporation (PPJ) Inspired by the promenades in Venice, Italy, this waterfront hub turns into a vibrant area in the evenings. Multi-seater bicycles, children's rides and e-scooters are among rentals available from vendors at RM10 or more. Decorative structures decked out in LED lights also provide Instagrammable backdrops by the lakeside for visitors. Food-wise, more than 10 restaurants and cafes in the area offer a range of options, including local, Middle-Eastern and Thai dishes. Climbing Challenge Park Where: Precinct 5 Enthusiasts trying out the climbing walls at the Climbing Challenge Park. Fee: RM6 for adults and RM3 for students. Equipment such as harnesses, shoes and chalk bags are available for rent at a separate cost. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, this centre gives everyone a chance to try rock climbing without leaving the city. There are five different zones, from beginner to advanced, with the walls reaching up to 20m in height. A climbing wall is also available for children with extra safety mats to cushion any falls. Regular route updates keep the climbing challenges new and exciting for thrill-seekers. This rock climbing spot is also a unique escape from daily life. Putrajaya Steps Where: Precinct 1 Fee: Free entry Putrajaya Steps at the biggest roudabout in the world. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star There are plenty of nature trails all around Putrajaya but if you have limited time, then you should head to Putrajaya Steps. Situated in Taman Putra Perdana, the 250-step stairway is built at the Guinness World Record-certified biggest roundabout in the world. Those who make it to the top are greeted by a small garden with a tower. But more importantly, visitors get an unbeatable panoramic view of Putra Mosque and the Prime Minister's Office from the highest step. Putrajaya Equestrian Park Where: Precinct 5 Fee: Horse rides cost RM10 for children and RM15 for adults A visitor getting ready to go on a guided ride at the equestrian park. This 28ha equestrian park offers horseback riding and a peek into the equestrian world. It has played host to national and international equestrian competitions, including show jumping and dressage events. Guided horse rides give first-timers an easy introduction to the sport. The ride also provides guests with an exceptional view of Putrajaya's iconic architecture from within the park. Lessons are available for those wanting to learn how to ride on their own. After a day of activities, you can relax at the on-site cafe, which offers light bites. Agriculture Heritage Park Where: Precinct 16 Fee: RM5 for locals and RM10 for foreigners Visitors learning traditional farming methods with a guide at Agriculture Heritage Park. Visitors can find a variety of local produce on sale alongside a working farm at this park. The park also offers a glimpse into traditional farming methods for crops such as padi. Guides are on hand to explain the process of rubber tapping as well as harvesting cacao and coffee. Local fruits such as durian, jackfruit and mangosteen and a selection of herbs and spices can be found on the farm too. Lake Recreation Centre Where: Precinct 1 Fee: Water rides are RM10 to RM25 on weekdays and RM15 to RM30 on weekends Visitors enjoying their time on the water at Lake Recreation Centre. - Putrajaya Corporation If chilling by the lake and water activities are your cup of tea, this centre is a must-visit. The laid-back atmosphere and calm Putrajaya lake provides a serene experience for visitors. For those keen to get on the water, paddle boats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards can be rented from the centre. Anglers are often spotted fishing here and if you want to give it a try, fishing rods are also available for rent. Cycling trails Where: All throughout the city Fee: Free entry Residents cycling on one of many trails in the city. The city is a cycling paradise for enthusiasts as there are tracks that snake throughout Putrajaya, including neighbourhoods and parks. These trails are well maintained, according to cyclists, and offer enjoyable rides at different difficulties. It is a good way to explore the buildings and natural landscape without breaking the bank. Putrajaya Wetlands Park and Botanical Garden are worth a visit if you have the time, as cyclists often get the opportunity to observe wildlife along the trails. Be sure to check opening hours before embarking on a journey at either park as both places are not open all-day long.
The Star
24-04-2025
- The Star
Malaysia first nation authorised to distribute nusuk cards for haj
Religious Affairs Minister Datuk Setia Mohd Na'im Haji Mokhtar. —SAMUEL ONG/The Star KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has marked another milestone by becoming the first country in the world to be granted approval by the Saudi Arabian government to distribute nusuk cards to haj pilgrims domestically before their departure to the Holy Land. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar (pic) said the approval is a recognition of Malaysia's efficient haj management system. The nusuk card, introduced by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, serves as the official identification for all pilgrims worldwide. 'Last year, the nusuk cards were handed out in Mecca before the wukuf ritual but this year, they will be distributed earlier to ease the pilgrims' movement. 'If we succeed in managing the domestic distribution of the nusuk cards, the initiative will be extended to other Muslim countries. 'This is a significant recognition from the Saudi government, made possible through the close and strategic cooperation between Tabung Haji (TH) and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah,' he told reporters after visiting the Haj Visa Processing Unit to observe preparations for the 1446H/2025 pilgrimage season. Also present were TH chairman Tan Sri Abdul Rashid Hussain and chief executive officer Datuk Syed Hamadah Syed Othman. Mohd Na'im also extended appreciation to the Saudi government for its efficiency in issuing visas and improving the nusuk card system. 'This achievement will serve as a catalyst for TH to continue providing the best services to Malaysian pilgrims,' he said, Bernama reported. Meanwhile, he said the visa issuance process for Malaysian pilgrims for this year's haj season has reached 45%. 'TH is also fully prepared for this year's hajj operations, with readiness at nearly 100%. This year, TH is deploying 632 haj personnel comprising welfare staff, medical staff and external agencies involved,' he added.
