Kuala Lumpur’s Shopping Scene

 

With more than 60 shopping malls located within its city limits, Kuala Lumpur is one of the major shopping destinations in Asia. Shoppers can find priceless antiques, local handicrafts and souvenirs, as well as popular international luxury brands.

 

One of the city’s premier malls, Suria KLCC, is located right at the bottom of the famous Petronas Twin Towers. It is home to numerous designer shops as well as many popular restaurants.

 

However, Kuala Lumpur’s most well-known shopping district is Bukit Bintang. Spanning over several main roads, this area includes shops in all price ranges, along with many cafes and al fresco dining options.

 

Popular shopping malls in Bukit Bintang include Berjaya Times Square, which features an indoor theme park with a 7-storey roller coaster, and Pavilion KL, which is home to former Malaysian prime minister Tun Mahathir bin Mohamad’s Japanese-style bakery called The Loaf. For the technologically inclined, Low Yat Plaza offers all types of electronics, video games and computer accessories.

 

No matter what you buy, you will need ringgit, the local currency in Malaysia. Foreign currency can be exchanged at major banks and airports, though money changers located in shopping malls may offer better rates. ATMs are also widely available in Kuala Lumpur.

 

The ringgit’s favorable exchange rate (1 USD = 4.23 MYR) makes shopping in Kuala Lumpur very affordable. Additionally, tourists can enjoy tax-free shopping with Malaysia’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund scheme on purchases from approved vendors. Be sure to save your receipts and claim your refund at the airport!