Merdeka Square
The first destination of this City sightseeing is Merdeka square, like "aloon-aloon" in every city in Indonesia. Once known as Padang (field), this vast lawn was the cricket pitch belonging to the neighboring Royal Selangor club. At midnight on 31 August 1957, the Union flag was lowered and the Malayan flag raised for the first time right here, a hugely symbolic event signifying the end of British rule over Malaysia. The field was officially renamed on 'Dataran Merdeka' on 1 January 1990.
One of the most famous buildings beside Merdeka square is Sultan Abdul Samad Building, which is built from 1894 to 1897 by Architect A.C. Norman and R.A.J Bidwell. This building was used to house the "Federated Malay State" administration in 1897 and the High Court and Supreme Court in 1972. It is now occupied by Ministry of Information, Communication, and culture. The first example of Moghul architecture in Malaysia, this elegant symmetrical brick structure features a 41-meter high clock tower, arched colonnades and copper dome. Maybe this building is the beautiful one in KL city.
We can also visit KL City Gallery which provides tourist information and places to go in Malaysia.
Central Market
Just by foot from Merdeka square we can go to Central Market, the center for Malaysian Culture, Heritage, art and craft. Built in 1888, Central Market started off as a bustling wet market. It has now transformed into charming lanes mimicking traditional shop houses where visitor can enjoy conductive shopping ambience displaying the best Malaysian culture, heritage art and craft.
With more than 350 shops and kiosks in bazaar-like concept, shoppers can relish Malaysian handicraft, batik, souvenirs, antiques and collectables. They can also enjoy craft-making demonstration, art paintings by local artists, join dancers during culture shows and savour traditional cuisine and snacks. As a must-visit destination, there is always something to indulge and experience at central market. For muslim, the market has prayer room (mushola/surau) at third floor.
Bukit Jaya and KLCC
From Central Market, we can take a train or go to by bus to Bukit Jaya, and/or KLCC (KL city center), including the mall. We choose bus because it is free (yes, gratis or free ride) rather than pay 1.5 ringgit for the train. There is no special place except the twin tower, and we can go to KLCC from Bukit Jaya from tunnel-like bridge. KL is a safe and comfort place to shop and walking around. Waiting for my second time to visit this city!
