Shopping

Suria KLCC is an upscale shopping center located within walking distance from the Petronas Towers. Some of the eye-catching and wallet-squeezing stores include Tiffany & CO., Marks & Spencer, DKNY, Calvin Klein, and Polo among others. However, this six level shopping center offers than just high-end shopping, the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra Theatre is located within its walls along with a variety of cafes and dining establishments and Cineplex theaters. For a picturesque view, simply walk outside toward the back of the mall and you will find a landscape park with fountains, jogging trails, and a mini pool. The Aquaria KLCC and LRT station are nearby.

KL's most glamorous and luxurious mall, along with being the most expensive, is the Starhill Gallery. Here you will find top-end designers like Louis Vuitton and Gucci along with some haute couture pieces. If you are need of rest from a long day of shopping, you can relax and regain energy at its spa located on the 5th floor.

Known as one of the biggest malls in Southeast Asia, the Mid Valley Megamall has about 300 stores, a large food court, a Carrefour hypermarket, an 18-screen cinema, and a bowling alley. In short, the Mid Valley Megamall is the place to go to for a one-stop shopping and entertainment experience.

The Royal Selangor Pewter Factory has been Malaysia's main pewter manufacturer since 1885. Its merchandise includes a varied mix of tableware items which are amongst the most popular in Malaysia and recognized internationally.

Sungei Wang Plaza and BB Plaza adjoin to form one of KL's biggest and best shopping complexes. You could lose yourself for hours exploring here. Sungei Wang is particularly good for youthful fashion and accessories, including many up-and-coming Malaysian designers.

Known as the Art Deco Central Market, this vibrant bazaar has been around since 1936 and has grown to hold over 130 arts and crafts shops along with regular cultural performances. Before such a cultural explosion, the Central Market was popular for being KL's top destination when buying fresh produce. In 1986 the market took a turn and became what it is today: a conglomeration of diverse items sold in one place.

Head over to Chow Kit if you want to shop like a local or observe what the locals are buying. It is one of KL's most popular “wet markets'' which refers to it being an open food market where only fresh food is expected to be sold. For this reason, it is a great place to buy local produce such as fruits, vegetables, tofu, spices, and various meats. You can also find some clothing and electronic items, though it is best to visit Chow Kit for nothing other than its inexpensive and delicious local food.

The National Craft Complex is not your ordinary local shopping complex because it allows you to create your own Malaysian handicrafts. Making such items can be great for personalized gifts. The complex also hosts a craft museum which highlights the evolution of Malaysia's handicrafts up to the latest production technology. Moreover, if you are in search of an item that is not originally from Kuala Lumpur but from another part of KL, you need not worry. The National Craft Complex sells traditional items from every nook and cranny in Malaysia.

Because of its minimal frequency (held on the first Saturday of every month), the Kuala Lumpur Arts Market has become one of KL's most popular and attractive markets. This market brings in over 80 artists and craft makers from all over Malaysia, so it is sure to satisfy the shopping desires of a plentitude of shoppers. However, visitors flock to this market not only for its varied items, but also for its cultural performances which are based on traditional Malaysian arts. Past performances have included free movie screenings and wayang kulif (shadow puppets).

Founded in 1996, Valentine Willie is one of KL's best galleries. It has a calendar of changing exhibitions featuring the best of Malaysia's contemporary art plus works from artists based throughout the region. They also have a library of art periodicals and other resources from across the globe which is open to the public.