Highlights
This week we are heading to the capital of Malaysia — and a very fascinating spot — Kuala Lumpur. Here, you will find bustling city life, beautiful glass buildings, and many interesting natural sites to explore. If you are interested in traveling to Kuala Lumpur virtually with us, then keep reading on…
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Visit the Museums and Sites
Kuala Lumpur is home to a variety of captivating attractions, sure to interest both the outgoing traveler and the lowkey tourist. For one, the Petronas Twin Towers have been named one of the go to spots to visit in the city. This historical landmark hosts two of the tallest twin buildings in the world, and also has a skybridge connecting the 41st and 42nd floors. To read more about the Petronas Twin Towers, be sure to read the blog from The Travel Author and watch a vlog from Renata Pereira. The video includes auto generated captions.
Another inspiring, towering site is Menara Kuala Lumpur, colloquially known as KL Tower. Originally built to serve as a telecommunications tower, Menara Kuala Lumpur stands tall at 421 meters, or over 1381 feet. If you are interested in learning more about KL Tower, be sure to read a blog from Home Is Where Your Bag Is. You can also watch an educational video on the tower from Puri and Sue, which comes with auto generated captions.
For an attraction that is more in tune with nature, the Batu Caves are definitely worth exploring. Though a bit outside of Kuala Lumpur, these fascinating caves hold a series of Hindu cave temples, being one of the most popular HIndu shrines outside of India. The name also originates from the Malay word ‘batu’, meaning rock. More information can be found in a blog from Away Go We and a podcast from The World Wanderers. There is a description of the podcast on the web page as well.
Want to dive straight into the history of Malaysia itself? Then look no further than the National Museum of Malaysia. Containing elements and artifacts from the past and contemporary times, this museum provides an encompassing understanding of Malaysian culture through the years. For more information, be sure to check out the video from Stephen Life Explorer which contains in-depth auto generated captions. Furthermore, the museum site has a virtual tour with videos, descriptions, and 360 degree views.
Merdeka Square, or Independence Square, is another important landmark of Malaysian history. The square faces the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, and is the place where Malaysia declared its independence in 1957. To learn more about this site, read the blog from True Voyagers and watch the video from André and Lisa. The video contains auto generated captions.
Tune in to Shows and Movies About Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia generally, is home to some captivating films and television shows which may pique your interest. One such film that draws on modern issues is Juang, telling a dramatic tale about the Malaysian lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the film, five unsung heroes keep the country going, even in the midst of strife. Watch Juang on Amazon Prime — the film includes English subtitles.
Another intense yet exciting film is PASKAL — delving into the story of the naval unit of the same name. Based on true events, PASKAL is among the most elite special forces in Malaysia, but everything goes south when one of its own stages a hijacking. The film is available on Netflix, and has subtitles in English. Audio description is available in Malay.
Pulang is a bittersweet story involving past tragedy, love, and hope for the future. Thom tells her grandson about his sailor grandfather who left long ago to seek his fortune, and asks him to find out what happened to her spouse. The film is available on Netflix, and contains English subtitles. Audio description is available in Malay.
After a hotel staffer falls for a guest at the establishment, she unexpectedly becomes embroiled in a dangerous hostage scheme. Much chaos ensues, but in the end, she discovers love in a truly unlikely place. Interested? Then be sure to tune into the film All Because of You on Netflix, which contains English subtitles and audio description in Malay.
Can’t commit to a whole film? Don’t worry — we have a few picks for Malaysian television shows that may satisfy your T.V. binging needs. For one, The Ghost Bride morphs fantasy and suspense together. In 1890s Malacca, main character Li Lan finds herself in the afterlife, where she becomes linked to a mysterious deceased son of a wealthy family. The show is available to watch on Netflix, and contains English closed captions and Mandarin audio description.
The series Folklore delves into modern adaptations of six different Asian countries’ myths and folklore, often touching on aspects of horror and occult beliefs. Some of these tales are Malaysian, like the episode “Toyol”, which follows a Member of Parliament becoming involved with a mysterious woman who possesses shamanistic powers. This anthology can be found on Max, and contains English subtitles and audio description.
Get Lost in Books About Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia are home to a plethora of impressive stories and engaging books, ripe for reading. The Garden of Evening Mists by Tan Twan Eng is one such novel, delving into the experiences of a young woman, Yung Ling Teoh, after surviving a brutal wartime camp in Malaya. She encounters a Japanese garden where she reluctantly seeks solace, and eventually becomes drawn to the gardener, his art, and his mysterious background. You can find this book on Amazon, and it has a Kindle and Audiobook version.
Another story engaging with themes of tradition, colonialism, and change takes place in the book The Woman Who Breathed Two Worlds by Selina Siak Chin Yoke. Chye Hoon, a rebellious young girl, is forced to take on the role of a cook and embrace her mixed Malay-Chinese heritage. As she grows older and begins appreciating her traditions, Chye Hoon must face new obstacles of Westernization and potential threats to the heritage she holds dear. The Woman Who Breathed Two Worlds is available on Amazon, and has a Kindle and Audiobook version.
Set in 1930s colonial Malaysia, The Night Tiger transports readers into a world full of vibrancy, servants and masters, sibling rivalry, modern idealism, and forbidden love. Two characters’ stories, Ji Lin and Ren, become intertwined as they traverse the country in hopes of completing their specific missions. You can find The Night Tiger on Amazon, and it has a Kindle and Audiobook version.
Want to learn more about Kuala Lumpur as a city? Well, Kuala Lumpur Street Names provides a novel way at showcasing the city’s history and origins — through its street names, obviously! This book is also complete with maps and photos, including a comprehensive guide to the street names and how they connect. To support local businesses in the city, you can purchase this book from MPH Online, Malaysia’s number one online bookstore.
Bring Kuala Lumpur to Your Kitchen
Home to fine and flavorful dishes, Kuala Lumpur boasts a variety of culinary experiences. We have found some of the most popular Malaysian recipes, but, to be more inclusive, have provided the vegan and gluten free versions.
Malaysian Tofu Curry blends together aromatic spices, rich coconut milk, and filling tofu to make a balanced, satisfying meal. The dish is best when served with rice, but if you want to eat it right out of the pot, we won’t judge! If you want to make this dish, be sure to check out the recipe from Vegan Richa, who has a vegan and gluten free option.
Another popular Malaysian dish is Roti Jala, or Malaysian lace pancakes, usually served on the side of curry. These pancakes are honestly quite beautiful, golden from the turmeric powder. Tina Dawson has provided a great vegan and dairy free recipe, which can be made gluten free by using gluten free flour instead of all purpose flour. Cook away!
Finally, it is time for dessert — and what could be better than Kuih Talam? This popular Malaysian dessert is creamy, chewy, flavored with pandan, and topped with a savory coconut layer for a balanced taste. Eatwkriss has a great vegan and gluten free recipe, so feel free to make and indulge.
Where to Next?
Thanks for wandering Kuala Lumpur with us virtually. Join us next time as we explore Berlin, Germany.