My Portal to Malaysia
What enters your mind when you think of Kuala Lumpur? I don't know about you but, if you're immersed in the profession of architecture like me, it's most probably the Petronas Twin Towers. If not, there are still lots of other architectural jewels waiting to be discovered in that city that would surely entice you.
In Episode 5 of Architecture Moments™, we'll be focusing on not just a single skyscraper but, an entire metropolis, well almost. Though this would not be detailed coverage of the overall city, I hope the accompanying words, photographs, and related content presented here would offer you an integral understanding of this Malaysian city's urban landscape. So, let's go.
World Book Capital 2020
I had no idea that Kuala Lumpur was holding the global recognition of being a World Book Capital. And I've recently learned that they got this award last year. In fact, this initiative was initiated by UNESCO last 2001 to strongly promote publishers, libraries, and booksellers worldwide. If you're interested, read more here.
To represent Kuala Lumpur for this international honor and its vital contribution to the planet, the 2 photos above are part of this capital city's National Monument (Tugu Negara). Hence, as a side-note, I might as well mention this here to ensure your awareness of this location's international reputation.
Award-Winning Airport
My initial dose of the country's remarkable architecture started the minute my flight landed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Upon exiting the bridge connecting the airplane to the terminal, my eyes were immediately star-struck, not by a pretty female celebrity…(lol 😁) but, by the tree branch-like columns and reclining roof supports, plus the clever combinations of geometries, colors, and materials in the interior expanse.
No wonder, they commissioned the foremost Japanese architect, Kisho Kurokawa, one of the founders of the Metabolist Movement in architecture, for his exemplary vision for this project's master plan. He designed it as an "Airport in the Forest", which was a representation of his concept of "symbiosis", and was heavily inspired by the surrounding cultural and natural environments.
It was already deep in the evening the time I completed all airport formalities. I could barely carry my huge luggage so I was absolutely eager to reach my hotel to have dinner, sleep, and get recharged.
First Day of Disappointment
HAZE!
Imagine having a complete night's rest, being pumped up with energy after waking up, and then only to realize the presence of miserable weather. Approaching my hotel room's glass window, I peeped outside, and this is what I witnessed. After scratching the back of my neck while curling my lips inwards and tapping my fingers, I drank a glass of water to calm down.
Noticed my facial reflection on the upper left side of the photo?
"What causes this type of atmospheric phenomenon?" You might ask. Well, this happens when an obscuration occurs in the lower atmosphere, usually caused by the collection of dust, smoke, and other dry particles suspended in the air. Thus, you can tell when this appears in the sky due to poor visibility.
"How could I enjoy exploring this beautiful city with a horrible atmosphere like this?!" With a loud voice, I blasted my travel buddies who were with me during those moments.
"Hey, look at the bright side! The climate is not that bad. You can still admire the beautiful architecture of the surroundings because the haze is not that thick," they replied while patting my shoulder.
That encouragement gave me a sudden boost of adrenalin to move forward and proceed with the tour. Hence, we went ahead and explored the various landmarks the alluring metropolis had to offer. These photos exhibited some of the treasures of the built environment we discovered during that hazy day. (If you find the photos not up to your standards, I apologize in advance for the inconvenience.)
The architectural heritage of the city of Kuala Lumpur is an interesting mixture of ancient colonial characteristics, Malay Islamic influences, Asian traditional designs, plus a generous blend of modern and post-modern styles. As a fairly young urban neighborhood, the majority of the city's colonial landmarks were constructed toward the completion of the 19th and early 20th centuries.
I could write an entire book to address all the awesome buildings and built spaces here. However, for the sake of this blog post, let's settle with the fundamentals so as not to overwhelm our coverage for this narrative.
Even the Petronas Twin Towers could barely demonstrate their splendor due to the misty environmental condition.
Urban Architecture at its Finest
On the succeeding days of our city exploration, we were blessed with clear blue skies. And this was how the urban skyline appeared during this ideal weather.
"Oh, what a relief!" I exclaimed.
Isn't that a picturesque panorama of buildings, foliage, and mountain backdrops? The colorful vistas were simply breathtaking!
One of the most convenient ways to travel around the metropolis was via the overhead railway system. Design-wise, the structural components that stabilize the entire train network were typically conventional as compared to the infrastructures of other highly developed countries.
Thus, we took advantage of the monorails to transport us to various strategic locations where we continued experiencing the impressive physical environments.
The perfect weather was definitely worth it because the sunny ambiance provided all the necessary warmth, stamina, and natural light to brighten the city's interesting plethora of remarkable architecture.
However, that didn't stop there. You see, Kuala Lumpur at night was an equally spectacular treat for the senses.
With its alluring lights, entertaining events, and captivating activities, everything ran smoothly when it came to the different architectural marvels in the neighborhood.
The Majestic Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC
Let's now direct our attention to Malaysia's sensational emblem of architecture. If you've watched the popular 1999 movie "Entrapment" where Sean Connery and Catherine Zeta-Jones were the main protagonists, this iconic building was featured there during major action scenes. And that film was responsible for catapulting this landmark's fame for many years.
Did you know that the Twin Towers was built to serve as the headquarters of Petronas, Malaysia's national petroleum company? This stunning skyscraper was designed by renowned Argentinean-American architect Cesar Pelli, completed in 1998, and was our planet's tallest building during its prime (1998 to 2004).
For vertical stability, the towers were reinforced by the state-of-the-art technology of the 21st century called "Tube in Tube Design", invented by leading architect Fazlur Rahman Khan.
In the field of structural engineering, the tube was created to be a system where lateral loads (wind, seismic, impact) is resisted. As a result, the high-rise building is designed similar to a hollow cylinder, perpendicularly cantilevered to the lower ground. What an incredibly ingenious feat of engineering!
The 88-floor double skyscraper (with 5 levels being underground) was primarily constructed of reinforced concrete, layered on the outer skin with a steel and glass facade to resemble traditional motifs used in Islamic Art, an authentic reflection of Malaysia's Muslim religion.
Furthermore, the Suria KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) was the prestigious shopping landmark also opened to the public in 1998 and was constructed at the foot of the Petronas Twin Towers. This commercial mall sports several luxurious brands strategically positioned on its crescent-shaped floor plan.
I didn't waste the chance to explore its inner architectural beauty. My eyes were fixated on the Islamic-inspired interior design elements exhibited all around while my feet were also busy scouring the various shops that were scattered there. It was certainly a pleasurable experience inside.
Artistic and Traditional Heritage
Architecture will never be complete without harnessing this discipline's cultural arts. So, as a bonus, receive the additional content embedded in this sub-headline as a gift. Interestingly, Kuala Lumpur is also recognized nationally and globally for 2 major creative industries - the craftsmanship of Batik and the manufacture of Pewter.
Batik is Malaysia's supreme answer to textile art. They're simply types of artworks rendered on the surfaces of fabrics through manual brush painting.
During my visit to their commercial establishments, the most popular motifs were depicted as leaves, plants, and flowers. Whereas, patterns showing humans and animals were strictly prohibited because they were forbidden by Islamic norms. I took the time to personally observing each artist in their work. And, "Wow!" I was clearly fascinated by the immense amount of skill these master artisans demonstrated.
On the other hand, Pewter is Malaysia's industrial rendition of metallic handicrafts. Basically, pewter is a malleable metal alloy composed of tin, antimony, copper, bismuth, and seldom silver.
And in Kuala Lumpur, no other brand name stands out from the rest than the world-famous Royal Selangor. This prestigious company specializes in the design, fabrication, and distribution of high-quality pewter. I also visited their factory and had the excellent opportunity to witness actual demonstrations of pewter products being assembled by their experts in front of my own eyes. What a fantastic experience it was!
When I knew that these important locations were part of our architectural itinerary, I merely couldn't tame my restless feet and curiosity that I had to satisfy my immediate cravings to visit those sites.
Malaysia: Truly Asia
While checking in at the airport for my flight back home, I happened to catch this colorful billboard of typical Malaysian beauties. Aren't they gorgeous? This was my final pill of inspiration before heading to the boarding gates.
Moreover, I had to borrow the country's famous tagline of tourism, "Malaysia, Truly Asia!" to conclude this publication. As much as this nation has diverse representations of Asian culture, cuisine, tourism, people, arts, and most especially built environments, that vivid promise obviously says it all - in just 3 words.
Despite the visual challenges triggered by the unexpected weather conditions during my initial exploration of Kuala Lumpur, it's a delight to say that I'm simply pleased with the entire outcome including all the memorable experiences I've encountered in that location.
Without a doubt, Kuala Lumpur is considerably wealthy in its architectural treasures and design legacy. The pictorial scenarios you've just digested in my blog post belonged to an era when the World Wide Web was still in its infancy. Therefore, with all the more recent innovations happening in the world today, do you think dramatic changes would be imminent in the locality's physical surroundings, infrastructure, buildings, and urban landscapes? That remains to be seen. Having said that, you need to travel there, investigate this marvelous destination, and experience it for yourself.
#Hive, what are your thoughts about Kuala Lumpur's architectural heritage? Let's talk about this in the comments.
Hello @storiesoferne. I read the whole article and loved it. Thanks for this tour to Kuala Lumpur. I have never been there but already with your pictures I see how majestic its architecture is. As you say when someone hears of this city automatically thinks of the petronas towers but there is so much inside, on its roof and surroundings that the whole makes a spectacular city. I have no doubt that today there must be modifications to the urban environment compared to when you made your visit.
I was thrilled to see the paintings, the tin work, the forest design of the airport, its structure, the petronas (by the way thanks for telling us how interesting its construction was) and I am so glad you were able to make that trip a pleasant one and that at the end the haze disappeared to give warmth to your view and photos.
Thanks for showing us part of the world, part of the beautiful and interesting architecture of this city and very important to accompany it with your own experience. A hug and happy beginning of the week to you and all the hive.
Hello @xandra79. First and foremost, thank you so much for taking the time to read and experience my entire article. Likewise, it's a delight to know that you were also transported, through my story, to the vibrant streets of Kuala Lumpur where you got to explore the various architectural treasures that abound there. You also felt my initial frustration that almost ruined my trip due to the unexpected weather changes. Nevertheless, it was a fruitful adventure that was absolutely worthwhile in the end.
Furthermore, your professional expertise as a Civil Engineer has certainly made it easier for you to fully grasp and clearly understand the technicalities of the Petronas Twin Towers. It was indeed a towering marvel that our senses could fathom. Constructing skyscrapers such as this iconic landmark is a challenging endeavor and will tend to push our abilities to their limits. Warm hugs, stay safe, and enjoy the rest of your week! 😊
Hey dear @storiesoferne Thanks for beautiful virtual tour of the city. Moreover the city is like a fusion of traditional and modern architecture.
I have mostly heard and seen Kuala Lumpur as mafia's land in Bollywood movies LOL!
It is exciting to see that these pictures were all belonged way back when internet was just started and they look so fresh though. I believe the cultural heritage of Kuala Lumpur is truly seen through it's architecture and will be maintained in future as well.
Hope you keep travelling and have fun always :)
My dear Sahiba, I love it when you used the term "FUSION" to describe your initial impressions of Kuala Lumpur's architectural heritage. The metropolis is certainly a high-breed of old and new environments, making the destination an excellent hotspot for the tourism, design, and film industries. Perhaps, it's for this primary reason that it has been a favorite setting for Bollywood movies. I'd not be surprised if that's the case...haha. 😁
If you haven't been to Kuala Lumpur yet, you might want to include it in your future travel itineraries. That will surely assist in expanding your perspective of the world culturally, educationally, and of course architecturally. Let's keep the adventurous spirit alive. Stay healthy, be safe, and enjoy your life always @sahiba-rana. 😊
Oh absolutely Kuala Lumpur is one of the top priorities to visit in near future. Hope you stay healthy and happy always:)
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WOW.Nice publishig!
Thank you very much for sharing, it is one of my pending pins on the map and I have really enjoyed it like a little kid seeing all those fabulous images.
Best regards and great job @storiesoferne.
¡Excelente publicación! Muchas gracias por compartir, es una de mis chinchetas pendientes en el mapa y realmente lo he pasado como un niña pequeña viendo todas esas estupendas imágenes. Un saludo y muy buen trabajo.Warm greetings @garvi. Your beautiful message simply made me smile - knowing that my publication has captured your vivid imagination as well as cherish the marvelous architecture of Kuala Lumpur through the curious eyes of a child. Thank you very much for the encouraging words. Take care. 😊
Hiya, @lizanomadsoul here, just swinging by to let you know that this post made it into our Honorable Mentions in Daily Travel Digest #1307.
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Many thanks, @lizanomadsoul and @pinmapple for the awesome feature. Best regards.
Those towers are absolutely huge! Kuala Lumpur is really an ultra modern city. One of these days I'd like to visit it too.
Hello @wwwiebe. Indeed, you will definitely be amazed by the architectural splendor of Kuala Lumpur, if you decide to visit the city someday. Happy Tuesday.
Absolutely stunning architectural design. Your photos are amazing! great job @storiesoferne .
Thank you @gerel for your words of appreciation. Kind regards.
Malaysia, Truly Asia, a nice tag line for the country. I enjoyed the airport photos the most, really interesting design. The info on the towers and how the design was influenced by Malaysia's Muslim religion is very insightful I had no idea. Would love to visit one day for sure. Your photos makes me want to take more pictures of architecture.
Hello @dmilliz. Thank you so much for immersing yourself in my narrative, in the various photos highlighting the great architecture of the city, and for taking the time to appreciate the other important details. I'm truly glad that the city of Kuala Lumpur and specifically the Petronas Twin Towers has fascinated you with its architectural concepts of cultural, colonial, religious significance. If you wish to visit this remarkable metropolis one of these days, you have my 100% blessing. You'll definitely love it there.
It was very captivating to read through your post. As I said before you have a way with words, it flows well and gives a detailed description. For sure, I will make that trip and see this landscape with my own eyes. Thanks for the inspiration.
Stay blessed 🙏
I'm grateful for your support, and most especially, the valuable time you've invested in my content. Rest assured, you'll have that unforgettable experience with Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia in the not-so-distant future. All the best and stay blessed as well. 😊
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There is no doubt that Malaysia and through your eyes, Kuala Lumpur, are a country and a city that seem really special for large investments, especially in Architecture, a detail that after all does not leave me as surprised, as two of the affirmations that you have made in your extraordinary work: that it was considered by UNESCO as the world capital of books, is something that not only surprises me but also fills me with hope as a true bibliophile that I consider myself. And second, the symbiotic architecture of the Japanese architect you mention, Kisho Kurokawa, where he applies in relation to the airport, the same concepts as the Gothic builders to cathedrals: the inclusion of Nature and in both cases, the sacred forest. By the way, I would also like to congratulate you on the great photographic work developed. Kind regards.
No cabe duda de que Malasia y a través de tu mirada, Kuala Lumpur, son un país y una ciudad que parecen realmente especiales para las grandes inversiones, sobre todo en Arquitectura, detalle que después de todo no me deja tan sorprendido, como dos de las afirmaciones que has hecho en tu extraordinario trabajo: que fuera considerada por la UNESCO como capital mundial del libro, es algo que no sólo me sorprende sino que me llena de esperanza como auténtico bibliófilo que me considero. Y segundo, la arquitectura simbiótica del arquitecto japonés que mencionas, Kisho Kurokawa, donde aplica en relación al aeropuerto, los mismos conceptos que los constructores góticos a las catedrales: la inclusión de la Naturaleza y en ambos casos, el bosque sagrado. Por cierto, me permito felicitarte también por el gran trabajo fotográfico desarrollado. Saludos cordiales.
Hello @juancar347. Your remarkable description of Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia as a whole definitely confirms that location as a business-friendly destination. Backed up by a prestigious title from UNESCO, a rich cultural diversity, and most especially, a world-class architecture, entrepreneurs and investors wouldn't hesitate to establish trust with the country. Moreover, the Japanese architect, Kisho Kurokawa's strong reliance on Mother Nature for his design philosophies will forever be undeniable proof of sustainable practices that would impact the positive growth of our planet. It's always my pleasure to engage with your stimulating conversations. Thank you very much and warm regards. 😊
Hi @storiesoferne, I love reading the blog. It blends will casual and technical writing. Looking at the building in Malaysia, I feel something very distinct to their architecture. I can say what it is , but I guess on how they used the curves. !discovery 25
I make it a point to format my blog posts into entertaining and educational pieces of content. This avoids boredom and the technical jargon plus gives our readers a better experience in the long run. In other words, not too serious publications...haha. Yes, Malaysia has distinctive architecture due to its colonial, cultural, and religious influences. Thanks a lot, @juecoree for your awesome remark.
Hello good friend Erne @storiesoferne I greet you with respect and affection from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, I confess that this time I read very little and I only concentrated on the excellent quality of the photographs, truly admirable. I loved this post. Receive a virtual hug full of blessings, positive energy and lots of light. Thank you very much for this beautiful material.
Hello friend Marcos. Thank you for taking the time to browse through the photographic presentation of this post. I do hope you have learned something valuable here without reading its entirety.
Another superb publication @storiesoferne. It is always a pleasure to read your blog and at the same time, I am learning a lot while reading, thank you. And as a matter of fact, this is the first time that I knew about batik and pewter.
It's always music to my ears whenever you say that you find pleasure in reading and learning from my publications. This continues to truly inspire me to create more valuable content for your benefit. Thank you so much @afterglow for your appreciation! 😊
You're welcome (^_^) @storiesoferne and thank you also.
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Excellent post on KL and your experience exploring the architectural gems in the city. I have never been. I suppose when you visited, it was during the time Petronas Towers was the tallest building in the world? Were they allowing visitors up on the Observatory Deck and Sky Bridge at the time?
I didn't know about Malaysia's design expertise in fabricating pewter before. The textile artists making batik are impressive as well.
It was around the period the skyscraper lost its crown to the new record holder. Guests were not allowed on its observation deck and sky bridge during my visit but the building's spectacular facade was enough to fascinate me.
I have been there before and to be honest, I like Putrajaya more than Kuala Lumpur. Of course, Petronas twin towers are something. I felt lost, to be honest...
Yeah, that's understandable. Pretty much every city in the world has its pros and cons. At least, you got to experience the Petronas Twin Towers up close and personal during your visit there.
Yes agree with you, it happened because after visiting Singapore I went to Malaysia, that's why I think I didn't like it as much as I liked Singapore...
Okay, I see. Singapore is an incredibly awesome destination, and this city is just a stone's throw away from Malaysia. I also had the chance to create memories in Singapore but that was a long time ago, way before digital cameras became mainstream. I'm glad we both share relatable experiences in those 2 locations.