Life in

Kuala Lumpur

A vibrant melting pot in the heart of Southeast Asia

Kuala Lumpur is characterized by an equatorial climate, which is tepid and sunny throughout the year. However, the nights are pleasant as the temperature drops a few degrees. The city receives plentiful rainfall, especially from April to September. As Malaysia’s capital city, Kuala Lumpur has gained the reputation as “A true gem of Southeast Asia”. It is an amazing and gorgeous hub of culture and class. Within this cosmopolitan metropolis with a significant religious influence, Kuala Lumpur also provides plenty of high-end shopping experiences and unimaginable exciting things to do, and places to explore.

Why I love living in KL

Culture and Diversity - Celebration of various cultures and religion throughout the year especially during festive seasons - we have Lunar New Year, Eid Mubarak, Diwali, Vaisakhi, Christmas, etc. Open house to visit and try various cuisines and dress the part as well with Sarees, Cheongsam, Baju Kurung, and many more.

Gauri Vicknasvaran

Senior Director, Accommodation Services

What I like the most about KL is that it's a melting pot of different cultures, you can find almost everything you think of, different people, different cuisines different activities, and many more things that will make you fall in love with this city.

Mohamoud Yusuf

Arabic Team Manager, Customer Service Team

Food diversity with a multicultural atmosphere is what makes KL a fascinating melting pot. Moreover, the city has perfect weather all year round and a safe environment.

Mari Kiiro

Japan Manager, Customer Service Team

Food, food, food. No matter what you crave, you always can find it here. Furthermore, I love the diversity in cultures and how open-hearted Malaysians are to teaching/answering my questions.

Kelly Opgenoort

Change Enablement Lead

I love living in KL because it offers almost equal opportunities to everyone, both locals and foreigners. From taxes to accommodation costs. To add, there’s something to do every weekend, from food hunting to go-karting and then night market shopping. What's there to not love?

Olayiwola Sunmonu

Team Manager

KL is a city of wonderful contrasts. The people, the food, the new coffee shops opening up all the time, the architecture, the ability to go to the beach for the weekend, the galleries, the ever-changing landscape, I could go on! Almost everyone in KL speaks English/Manglish (Bahasa Malaysia + English) as such communication with the locals is a breeze. KL also has one of the best public transportation systems with LRT, MRT, Monorails, Komuters, and free city buses.

Kuppusamy, D

Service Delivery Manager, EN

You will never get bored living in Kuala Lumpur as there is always something new for you to explore. I love KL because it balances my life perfectly, whereby there are lots of parks for you to go for a jog, being a sports enthusiast myself. What a perfect way to complement a good workout by filling up your hunger with all the choices of different cuisine for you to indulge on anytime.

Subramaniam, Kumaran A/L

Service Delivery Manager, EN

I love KL as the city that never sleeps and has a lot of various foods from around the world. There are so many malls which give us more options of places to go and activities to do with family and team. There are peaceful areas in KL as well where it is very good for people who love nature and peaceful places to spend time after a busy week.

Ninggal, Hazura

Service Delivery Manager, VN & ID

Malaysia

Malaysia consists of thirteen states and three federal territories, separated by the South China Sea into two regions, Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo’s East Malaysia.

Weather

Malaysia has a tropical climate with an annual temperature of 25.4°C. Malaysia receives about six hours of direct sunlight every day, with cloud cover during the afternoon and evening time. Rainfall also remains high year-round, with an average annual precipitation of 3,085.5 millimeters (mm).

Population

Kuala Lumpur is the most populous city and the fastest-growing metropolitan area of Malaysia. The current metro area population of Kuala Lumpur in 2022 is 8,420,000; with Malays, Chinese, and Indians comprising the majority of the population.

Currency

The Malaysian Ringgit “MYR” is the national currency.

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Life in Kuala Lumpur

About KL:

Kuala Lumpur is home to a wonderful variety of cultures and religious celebrations. This is a growing city with convenient and modern public transportation and services. Blending modern amenities and historical architecture, Kuala Lumpur is a diverse melting pot that accommodates all cultures and interests.

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Housing:

As a prominent Southeast Asian destination, most buildings in Kuala Lumpur being constructed are new, modern and spacious. The living areas are open-plan, allowing the all-year-round sunshine to beam through.

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Food & Culture:

Malaysia is well-known as the gastronomic hub of Asia. Innumerable cuisines range from typical Malaysian to Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, Japanese, and Thai food. Among the food selections, hawker stalls – food stands found on the side of the street serving aromatic dishes at a fraction of restaurant prices have become an integral part of the culinary landscape of Malaysia.

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About

Kuala Lumpur

Exploring the City

Kuala Lumpur is home to a wonderful variety of cultures and religious celebrations. This is a growing city with convenient and modern public transportation and services. Blending modern amenities and historical architecture, Kuala Lumpur is a diverse melting pot that accommodates all cultures and interests.

Accessibility

With a comprehensive road network, getting around Kuala Lumpur is easiest using a car or a ride-sharing service, but the city’s fast-developing public transport system is also a great option!

Touch n’ Go is the primary cash card in Malaysia, used at all toll plazas, most public transport systems, and many parking facilities. Reloads can be made over the counter; or using a new NFC-enabled card through the eWallet smartphone app.

Attractions

Immerse yourself in Kuala Lumpur’s diverse cultures by exploring the multicultural, must-visit attractions to get to know Malaysia better.
Life in Kuala Lumpur

Petronas Tower

The most impressive and coolest must-see attraction in KL! With a height of 452 meters, it is the world’s tallest twin towers and can be seen from anywhere in Kuala Lumpur.

You can also go up in the towers, both to the Observation Deck on the 86th floor (370 meters above the ground) and to the double-decker Skybridge connecting the two towers (170 meters above ground).

Life in Kuala Lumpur

Pavillion

This shopping center is located in the heart of Bukit Bintang, with over 700 stores combining international and local retail shops.

Menara KL

The seventh tallest telecommunication tower in the world, which is also the tallest in Southeast Asia. Standing at whopping 421m together with an Observation Deck at 276 meters above ground as well as an Open Air Deck at 300 meters. It is surrounded by a jungle area called the KL Forest ECO Park (the largest jungle in KL city).

Life in Kuala Lumpur

Chinatown KL / Petaling Street

Explore Chinatown by walking around the streets and have a look at all the old Chinese-inspired temples and buildings. It is a great place to look for souvenirs and local street food.

Life in Kuala Lumpur

Batu Caves

The main attraction of Batu Caves is their large statue of the Hindu God at the entrance, after climbing a steep 272-step staircase painted in rainbow color.

Life in Kuala Lumpur

Lake Garden / Perdana Botanical Gardens

The biggest and grandest park in KL. You will find a big lake, romantic white bridges, lovely flower arrangements, a sculpture garden, an Orchid garden, a Herb garden, and a Hibiscus garden, as well as a deer park. The entrance is free!

Sunway Lagoon

If you are looking for a place with loads of water activities, then Sunway Lagoon will be the best for you. It provides the ultimate theme park experience in 6 adventure zones — Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park, Scream Park & Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon– Asia’s 1st Nickelodeon Themed Land.

Life in Kuala Lumpur

Jalan Alor Bintang

Famous for many food stalls and outdoor dinning.

Life in Kuala Lumpur

Tapak Urban Street Dining

One of the best places in Kuala Lumpur with food trucks selling different types of hipster food.

Housing

INFO

Neighborhoods

Move to Description
South KL Cheras West KL North KL East KL Seputeh BukitBintang LembahPantai Agoda Agoda

North KL

(Batu)

Batu is located in the North of Kuala Lumpur, situated approximately 12 km from the city center. It is categorized as a developing residential neighborhood. Many new developments can now be found within this area such as medium-cost condominiums, and gated and guarded communities.

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West KL

(West KL comprises Kepong and Segambut)

Kepong is a large town located about 14 KM from the city center of Kuala Lumpur. Characterized by the plenty of old shops, streets, and surroundings; Kepong evokes nostalgia among the older generations. This township is suitable for families and individuals who enjoy a healthy lifestyle as Kepong is also known for its green spaces.​

Attraction: FRIM Kepong (Forest Research Institute Malaysia)​

What do our employees say about Kepong?​

"It's a beautiful place and all facilities and services are nearby."

Segambut is a wealthy neighborhood that is comprised of 3 main areas: Mont Kiara, Sri Hartamas, and Damansara Heights. The neighborhood is mostly populated by expats and upper-income families; and includes some of the most popular international schools (GIS & MKIS) in Kula Lumpur.​

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East KL

(Wangsa Maju)

Wangsa Maju is a neighborhood with a famous campus (UTAR) at Setapak and ranges from student housing to several high-end residential accommodations.

Setiawangsa offers 2 main neighborhoods position high up on the hills: Puncak Setiawangsa and Bukit Setiawangsa. Bukit Setiawangsa is often dubbed as the ‘Hollywood Hills’ of Kuala Lumpur.

Titiwangsa is another neighborhood which is accessible via LRT and monorail. It is comprised mainly of high-rise condominiums. This township is famous for Lake Gardens, which is a favorite for couples performing their wedding photo shoots.

What our employees say about Titiwangsa?

"Convenient place to live in.you can access to MRT and a shopping mall easily"

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Bukit Bintang

Bukit Bintang is considered the heart and hub of Kuala Lumpur. It's one of the top commercial and entertainment districts in KL, with vibrant energy pulsing through its streets during the day and night. Dotted with a wide range of malls, restaurants, bars, hotels, and backpacker hostels on every street, Bukit Bintang is also the most accessible neighborhood by public transportation such as LRT, MRT, Monorail, KTM, and bus.

Highly recommended attractions: KLCC, Petronas Twin Tower, Chinatown (Petaling Street)

One of our KL main offices "The Exchange 106" is located in this area!

What're our employees say about this neighborhood?

"There are a lot of shops, restaurants and malls. I have all I need and the neighborhood is alive and vibrant."

"Clean, many expats, many friends, convenient from center of the city."

"I like being surrounded by cheap local food stands, so Bukit Bintang or Kampong Bharu is probably the place I would like!"

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Lembah Pantai

Lembah Pantai is made up of 3 main popular areas: Bangsar, Midvalley, KL Eco City. It is located on the edge of the city center and has become one of the favorites of expats who relocate to Malaysia. This neighborhood is equipped with many high-end boutiques and malls. Bangsar serves as the main residential area while KL Eco City and Mid Valley City serve as the main area for commercial offices, retail outlets, and residential towers. Even one of our Agoda offices (Menara Southpoint) is located here just besides Malaysia’s largest shopping mall, Mid Valley Megamall.

What our employees say about this neighbourbood?

"Close to the city center but quiet neighborhood."

"There are a lot of cafes, walking distance to the LRT."

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Seputeh

Seputeh is one of the most preferable neighborhoods which covers some well-known areas such as Bukit Jalil, Kuchai Lama, and Sri Petaling. It is pretty accessible and convenient to get to via public transportation. Besides that, it is pretty near to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (around 40 minutes drive).

Attractions: National Stadium Bukit Jalil, Pavillion Bukit Jalil

What our employees say about this neighbourbood?

"Accessibility to nearby amenities; Safety of location when walking; Diverse demographic and private."

"Not so busy, can find local food but easy to access shopping mall too."

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South KL

Bandar Tun Razak is located in the South of Kuala Lumpur. In the past, it was a settlement for retired Malaysian army personnel who served in the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 1960s. This up-and-coming neighborhood also has Kuala Lumpur's main bus terminal (Bandar Tasik Selatan).

What our employees say about this neighbourbood?

"There are a lot of interesting and diverse Masjid and restaurants and shops just a couple of minutes walking distance from my place, super convenient!"

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Cheras

Cheras is one of the oldest residential areas in Kuala Lumpur, with a distance of about 6 km from the city center, and is considered Kuala Lumpur China Town. Thus, this neighborhood is also famous for its many 'tai chow' ( stir-fried Chinese dishes) and one of the largest night markets "Taman Connaught Pasar Malam".

What our employees say about this neighborhood?

"Convenient for public transport (walking distance to MRT) & near the workplace. There are many malls and supermarkets nearby within 1-3 train stations. Easy access to the city center."

"Even though it takes 10km to go to KL, it only takes less than 30 mins to get there. cheap condo, greenery view."

"It's close to the city center and has a lot of food stalls, supermarkets, convenient stores everywhere, everything comes in handy."

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Types of Accommodation

Life in Kuala Lumpur

Apartment / Flat

Similar to condominiums, apartments are usually furnished single or two-bedroom units without special hotel-like services. Some may have their own facilities, such as fitness center, sauna, and swimming pool. The difference is that the entire building usually owned by a single owner where they would charge utility bills at a different rate (usually higher).

Average room size: 800-900 square feet (assume a 2-bedroom unit)

Serviced Apartment

“A fully furnished apartment available for either short term stay, long term stay, or both. Hotel-like amenities are offered, including room service and regular cleaning, It allows you to enjoy full privacy, space, and convenience in roaming around, serving as one of the more popular options for expatriates residing in business districts. Rental fees are often higher compared to regular apartments.

Average room size:
800-900 square feet (assume a 2-bedroom unit)

Keep in mind:
As it is parked on commercial land, the utility fee will be higher as well as the monthly maintenance fees.”

Life in Kuala Lumpur

Landed Housing

A regular house in Malaysia is often two stories high and located in suburban areas, such as the outer skirts of Kuala Lumpur. In inner Kuala Lumpur areas, townhouses with adjacent walls with neighbors tend to be more popular due to their space-saving and cost-saving feature. With more space, houses are family-friendly, often closer to leafy areas, and may incur greater rental fees.

Average room size:
1500 sq ft (assume a 2-bedroom unit)

Keep in mind:
Higher in budget

Condominium

Usually furnished single or two-bedroom units. Usually will include a combination of fitness center, sauna, and swimming pool.

Average room size: 750-1000 sq ft (assume a 2-bedroom unit)
Life in Kuala Lumpur

Studio

A “self-contained” unit where the bedroom, living area, and kitchen are combined into a single space. Generally, there is no wall to divide the different areas except for the bathroom.

Average room size: 500 square feet or less

Keep in mind:
Limited space

Cost of Living Comparison

Housing rent price
1 bedroom in city center

(1USD ~ 4.17MYR)

$0

$500

$1000

$1500

$2000

$2500

$417.00

KL

$680.69

Bangkok

$1,430.00

Dubai

$2,134.02

Singapore

$1,266.00

Tokyo

Utilities:

Water & Electricity for 85sqm apartment

Internet (60mbps)

(1USD ~ 4.17MYR)

$0

$40

$80

$120

$160

$200

$50.00

$27.33

KL

$100.53

$22.19

Bangkok

$197.82

$97.00

Dubai

$113.85

$33.41

Singapore

$195.75

$38.83

Tokyo

Transport:

Public transport

Taxi (Start price)

(1USD ~ 4.17MYR)

$0

$1

$2

$3

$4

$0.6

$1.2

KL

$1.23

$1.13

Bankok

$1.36

$3.27

Dubai

$1.33

$2.74

Singapore

$1.82

$4.00

Tokyo

Food:

Mid-range meal for 2 people

Inexpensive meal for 1 person

(1USD ~ 4.17MYR)

$0

$10

$20

$30

$40

$50

$60

$70

$16.78

$2.87

KL

$30.65

$2.10

Bangkok

$68.11

$10.8

Dubai

$51.87

$11.11

Singapore

$52.00

$8.69

Tokyo

What voltage and plug shape are used in Kuala Lumpur?

220-240AC, 50 Hertz
Life in Kuala Lumpur

Food and

CULTURE

Do’s and Don’ts

Do dress appropriately when visiting religious sites

Do smile when meeting people

Do take your shoes off before entering homes or temples

Don’t discuss the divisive topic of ethnic relations

Don’t show anger or shouting in front of someone older than you

(Muslims) Do not give alcohol, pork, gifts with dogs’ picture or obscene images

(Chinese) Do not give clocks, tools with sharp edges

(Indian) Do not wrap gifts in white or black or give leather products

Malaysia Holidays/Festivals

Jan

Feb

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year (February)

Malaysia has one of the largest Chinese populations outside of China and celebrates the Lunar New Year with lion dance performances, fireworks and go to house visitations.

Mar

Apr

May

Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Wesak Day

Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Wesak Day

Hari Raya Aidilfitri (May)

The name "Hari Raya" could be translated as "celebration day" and marks the end of Ramadan holy month of fasting.

Wesak Day (May)

Celebrated by Buddhists to honor Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death.

Jun

Jul

Hari Raya Haji

Hari Raya Haji

Hari Raya Haji (July)

The festival of Abraham’s sacrifice.

Aug

Merdeka Day

Merdeka Day

Merdeka Day (31 August)

Malaysia Independence Day, also known as National Day or ‘Hari Merdeka’ in Malay is observed on August 31 and commemorates the Malayan Declaration of Independence of 31 August 1957.

Sep

Malaysia Day

Malaysia Day

Malaysia Day (16 September)

Known as 'Hari Malaysia', commemorates the anniversary of the formation of the Malaysian Federation. The celebrations of Malaysia Day primarily include national ceremonies that celebrate the strength of Malaysians.

Oct

Deepavali

Deepavali

Deepavali (October)

Indian festival of Diwali. The holiday is known as the Festival of Lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

Nov

Dec

Malay Words

What better way to get around KL than getting to know the locals? Pick up some simple Malay to speak with the locals and explore the culture!

Must-Try Dishes in KL

Made up of diverse ethnic cuisines, including Malay, Indian to Chinese – there are many dishes to try from savory to sweet dishes with complex flavors.
Life in Kuala Lumpur

Nasi Lemak

A must-try in Malaysia! It is usually eaten for breakfast or any time of the day – this dish is served with rice boiled in coconut milk, hard-boiled eggs, fried anchovies (Ikan Bilis), fried peanuts, and sweet spicy chili sauce known as ‘Sambal’.

Roti Canai

An Indian staple – it is a flatbread made from flour, ghee, and water. It is traditionally served with Dhal (vegetable beans) or curry sauce.

Satay

Marinated meat that is skewered and barbecued over charcoal. Served with ‘shaped’ rice, cucumber, and raw onions topped with peanut gravy.

Cendol

Another Malaysia must-have! Cendol is a popular dessert made from green-rice-flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup topped with shaved ice. Great to have on hot days!
Life in Kuala Lumpur

Char Kway Teow

Meaning “stir-fried rice cake strips” this is a stir-fried rice noodles dish together with prawns, egg, cockles, and bean sprouts.
Life in Kuala Lumpur

Keropok Lekor

Keropok Lekor (fish crackers or fish sausage) is a local favorite, and for good reason. Salty, oily, and flavorful, it can be thin and crunchy or thick and chewy; and when dipped in a signature sweet chili sauce, it’s basically a party in your mouth.

Nyonya Kuih

They come in all shapes and colors; commonly containing coconut flakes, pandan-infused flavors, kaya, and glutinous rice. The most common and our favorite ones are Kuih Koo, Pulut Tekan Kaya, Ondeh-Ondeh, Getuk-Getuk, and Kuih Lapis.

Banana Leaf Rice

An Indian staple – serving rice with a selection of fried fish, chicken, vegetables, Indian curries, Dahls, and Papadom which is served on a signature banana leaf, this is a native Indian dish that Malaysians know and love.
Life in Kuala Lumpur

Chicken Rice

Commonly found in Malaysian hawker centers and influenced by the Hainanese culture – fragrant, yellow-tinged, oily rice is prepared with chicken broth and sometimes pandan as well, making it a perfect base for fragrant roasted or steamed chicken.

1 day itinerary in

Kuala Lumpur

9:00am

You can’t fully experience Kuala Lumpur without visiting the Petronas Twin Towers, one of the most iconic sights in Kuala Lumpur. You should take a trip up to the Skybridge on the 41st and 42nd floors and the Observation Deck on the 86th floor. Don’t forget to buy the Petronas Towers tickets beforehand.

Suggested duration: 1-2 hours

How to go to your next destination?

Take the LRT from KLCC station and stop at Dang Wangi Station

10:30am

Continue your journey with other iconic sights of Kuala Lumpur, which is Menara Kuala Lumpur. Head over to the Kuala Lumpur Tower Observation Deck which has a circular room made with big glass windows and binoculars to take in the awesome views. There is a fine dining restaurant atmosphere 360 serves buffets for lunch, high tea, and dinner

Suggested duration: 1 hour

How to go to your next destination?

About 3 minutes walking distance to your next destination

12:00pm

Head over to Kuala Lumpur Forest Eco Park to experience the greenery and picture-perfect beauty of nature. It is a natural rainforest situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. There is a canopy walkway and an herbal garden. This park is ideal for a picnic.

Suggested duration: 1.5 hour

How to go to your next destination?

Take the LRT and stop at Masjid Jamek Station > walk about 5-7 minutes to Merdeka Square; the historical heart of Kuala Lumpur

2:00pm

The Merdeka Square is a must-see for anyone who wants exciting exposure to the rich culture and history of Malaysia. It is a 19th-century Moorish architecture, located in front of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Several attractions in the nearby location, Queen Victoria Fountain, Federated Railway Station, The Cathedral of St Mary, etc.

Suggested duration: 1-2 hours

How to go to your next destination?

The Merdeka Square Heritage Walk is connected to the Chinatown Walk, about 7 minutes walking distance

3:30pm

Head into Chinatown to visit some of the Buddhist temples, one of the oldest Hindu temples (Sri Maha Mariamman), and bustling Petaling Street with a great selection of food and drink, and architecture.

Suggested duration: 1-2 hours

How to go to your next destination?

Take the LRT from Pasar Seni Station and stop at Kampung Baru Station

5:00pm

Last visit to Salomon Link Bridge where you can take pictures with colorful LED link bridge

Suggested duration: 15 – 30 minutes

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