The best way to learn about a country’s culture is to go to a museum.
Compressing the long history into historical facts, presenting it before your eyes like an unfolded scroll, the moment you see before your eyes is the long light and shadow of thousands of days and nights.
The collision of cultures, the fusion of ancient and modern, I believe will bring you a unique feeling.
Below is a list of must visit museums and galleries in Kuala Lumpur, allowing everyone to experience the cultural influence during their journey.
It is a national comprehensive museum located in the western suburbs of Kuala Lumpur. Opened in 1963. The traditional design of Kedah style in Malaysia features two huge inlaid murals at the entrance, which are themed around Malaysia’s history and culture.
The central hall on the first floor of the museum regularly holds special exhibitions and has four permanent exhibition halls.
Prehistoric History Exhibition Hall
Reviewing the traces of human life in the region where Malaysia was located during the Paleolithic era, including prehistoric artifacts, Paleolithic tools, weapons, musical instruments, handicrafts, festive items, etc.
Exhibition Hall of the Kingdom of Malaya
Introduced the influence of Indian civilization on the Malay Archipelago and the formation process of the Malay Kingdom.
Exhibition Hall of Colonial Period
Reviewing the British colonial rule over the Malaysian Peninsula, the independence of the Federation of Malaya in 1957, and the transition process of the establishment of the Federation of Malaya in 1963.
Today’s Malaysia Exhibition Hall
Introduce the customs, culture, and religious beliefs of the local people through exhibits.
Opening hours: 9:00-18:00 daily (closed on the first day of Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha)
Address: Jalan Damansara 50566, Kuala Lumpur
Admission: Adults: 5 Malaysian Ringgit; Children: 2 Malaysian Ringgit (free for children under 6 years old)
The National Gallery of Malaysia (Balai Seni Visual Negara) is located in the center of Kuala Lumpur and is one of the most important art museums in Malaysia. The organization was founded in 1958 and later relocated to its magnificent Jalan Temerloh in 1998.
The collection consists of approximately 2500 works, covering oil paintings, sketches, watercolors, prints, sculptures, installations, photography, printmaking, etc., all of which beautifully showcase the diverse artistic styles of Malaysian and Southeast Asian art. The local government is committed to preserving and promoting the development of local art, attracting tourists to explore the world of culture and creativity.
The location of the gallery is also adjacent to iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Palace, making it the perfect stop for tourists. There are also numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby, providing tourists with enjoyable food and shopping experiences.
Opening hours: 10:00-18:00 (9:00-17:00 during Ramadan; closed on Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha)
Address: No. 2, Jalan Temerloh, Off Jalan Tun Razak, 53200 Kuala Lumpur
Ticket: Free
The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, located in the center of Kuala Lumpur, is a symbol of artistic wonder and cultural enlightenment. The main attraction of this museum lies in its rich and diverse collection, which includes various forms of Islamic art.
The museum currently has a collection of over 7000 cultural relics and artworks, divided into 2 floors and 12 exhibition halls for permanent display, and 2 additional exhibition halls for temporary display. Five exhibition halls on the first floor are themed around architecture, the Quran and manuscripts, India, China, and Malaysia; The 7 exhibition halls on the 2nd floor are themed around textiles, jewelry, weapons, coins and seals, metal objects, wood carvings, and ceramics.
In addition to stunning exhibits, the Malaysian Islamic Art Museum also offers a variety of rich experiences. For those seeking knowledge, museums offer educational programs ranging from lectures to practical workshops suitable for all age groups.
Opening hours: 9:30-18:00
Address: Jalan Lembah Perdana, Kuala Lumpur
Ticket: Adult ticket: RM14; Student Ticket: RM7 (free for children aged 6 and under)
UR-MU (Urban Museum) is a unique private contemporary art museum located in the heart of Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur. This five story art museum used to be an elevator free apartment, but now it has been renovated and houses a diverse collection of regional works.
UR-MU has over 10 themed gallery spaces, including Sens Asia, People, Kampung Kita, Power Play, Raksasa (Monster), Superheroes, Framing Modernity, Structure, Made’s Garden, and Sculpture Lounge, featuring over 100 artworks.
UR-MU is also considered one of the most contrasting art museums in Malaysia, with a particular passion for sharing its artworks with everyone and providing a ‘less intimidating’ space for art appreciation.
Opening hours: The museum is open every Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 8:30 pm.
Address: 3 Jalan Bendera, Bukit Bintang, 50200, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
admission ticket:
Adult ticket: RM10.
Student/Senior Pass: RM5.
Children under 12 years old are free to enter.
The Museum of Illusion in Kuala Lumpur is one of the most distinctive attractions in Malaysia! As soon as you step into the building, you will see incredible puzzles and headache inducing illusions on the walls, making it a novel and must visit place, perfect for checking in with family and friends.
This museum will use lighting, space, lines, mirrors, and other elements to create visual art.
Opening hours: 10:00-22:00
admission ticket:
Adult RM40
Children RM30
Student RM35
Address: Museum of llusion Kuala Lumpur