Kuala Lumpur is a city that prides itself on its world-class shopping malls. To many, these big, beautiful retail complexes are more than just a selection of stores, but a local experience – filled with gyms, prayer rooms and even hawker centres. Check out 10 of the very best shopping malls in Malaysia’s capital.
One of Malaysia’s favourite pastimes is shopping – escaping the country’s hot weather while leisurely browsing under the gentle caress of air-conditioning. The capital has a proud selection of shopping malls, featuring everything from high-end luxury clothing to local handicrafts and the latest gadgets. Here are the 10 best shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur.
Located in the heart of posh Bangsar neighbourhood, Bangsar Village (comprising of two shopping centres connected by a sky-bridge) is a one-stop mall popular among both locals and expats. Bangsar Village I (designed to be family-oriented), has a handful of stores catering to the needs of a growing family, from children’s clothing to home appliances. Bangsar Village II, on the other hand, is for those seeking simple elegance with a selection of contemporary restaurants, curated design goods and luxury fashion brands.
One of the largest shopping malls in Southeast Asia, Mid Valley is hands-down one of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular retail complexes. Opened in 1999, there are more than 400 stores here catering to every need, from fashion and home goods to restaurants and a massive cinema. There is also a 48,300-square-foot convention centre in the building which plays host to some of the most popular exhibitions in the city. Be sure to check out the local hawker centre downstairs for a cheap, tasty pit-stop and a wonderful element of traditional Malaysia.
Linked to Mid Valley Megamall via a pedestrian bridge and underground walkway, The Gardens is the luxurious cousin to Mid Valley for high-spending customers and fashionistas. This posh mall is sparkling, spotless and gilded with gold adornments, housing high-end brands including Gucci, Hermes and Burberry. Other noteworthy places to splash your cash include the omakase-only Japanese restaurant Sou Omakase and a gold-class cinema which offers an experience only money can buy.
Adjoined to KL Sentral Station, Nu Sentral is a shopping, entertainment and transport hub all rolled into one. Serving as a convenient stop for travellers and locals alike, many people pass through this hall of temptations on their daily commute (which may explain its glitzy demeanor). You will find local and international brands, cuisine from all over the world and currency exchange services here.
Iconic archway? Check. Local atmosphere? Check. Vintage items? Check. Central Market is the place to be when you’re looking for the best Malaysia-themed souvenirs to commemorate your trip. This historic building started off as a wet market in 1888 and still maintains its original art-deco structure, playing an important role in the country’s heritage and architecture.
Standing loud and proud in the heart of Bukit Bintang, Pavilion is the place to be for luxury shoppers and high-end fashionistas. The mall has dedicated itself as Malaysia’s power fashion hub with some of the world’s most sought-after brands such as Givenchy, Cartier and Saint Laurent on full glittering display. It is also home to the annual Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week which showcases the country’s best local designers.
Sitting in between the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Suria KLCC is a world-class mall nestled in the action of Kuala Lumpur. Spreading across 1.17 million square feet are luxury fashion brands, trendy clothing retailers and eateries including Alexander McQueen, Topshop, and Din Tai Fung. Parents will also find the Petrosains Discovery Centre and Aquaria KLCC perfect for a family trip with the little ones. Be sure to check out KLCC’s nightly light shows at the fountain outside, showcasing a marvellous display of orchestral music and fancy water sequences.
One of many shopping malls in Bukit Bintang, Lot 10 was given a new lease of life after its recent revamp to house ISETAN, The Japan Store. The mall offers customers an authentic Japanese experience with most goods – from food and snacks to clothing and home goods – imported from the land of the rising sun. Lot 10 is also home to Hutong – a food court that brings together Malaysia’s beloved heritage dishes, including Ho Weng Kee wantan mee, Soong Kee beef noodles and Chua Brothers char kuay teow.
Gadget geeks and tech lovers nerd it out at Plaza Low Yat. Serving as Malaysia’s largest IT and lifestyle mall, Plaza Low Yat is a 9-floor complex that offers the world’s latest gadgets, from laptops and computers to smartphones and cameras. If your battery drains after spending hours browsing through the maze of electronics shops, there are plenty of eateries to help you recharge.
Sungei Wang Plaza, one of Kuala Lumpur’s oldest shopping complexes, is still well-loved by locals and tourists for its affordable retail therapy experience. Shops here continue to draw the young, trendy crowd with cheap-but-quality bargains. Other than clothing stores, gadget stores and tattoo parlours, you will find a myriad of kiosks crowded together selling handphone accessories, costume jewellery, soft toys, and other random knick-knacks.
