Muzium Negara is a valuable destination for those wanting to learn about Malaysia’s diverse culture and history. Originally known as the Selangor Museum, the iconic museum was reconstructed post-Merdeka to chronicle the nation’s narrative from prehistoric times to contemporary Malaysia. Visitors can learn Malaysia’s history with engaging exhibits and artefacts, including the ancient Malay kingdoms, colonial eras, and the journey to independence. The museum often holds events and exhibitions for visitors to take part in.

Muzium Negara

Address: Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jln Damansara, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur

See also: 5 post-independence buildings to visit in Kuala Lumpur

Founded in 1885, Royal Selangor is a renowned Malaysian pewter manufacturer famed for its exquisite craftsmanship. The company’s rich heritage is tied to KL’s rapid rise from a fledgling tin mining town to a thriving metropolis. Learn about this history at its Visitors Centre, which offers engaging hands-on exhibits, live pewter crafting demonstrations, complimentary guided tours in various languages, child-friendly activities, unique photo opportunities and perhaps even take home a souvenir.

Royal Selangor Visitor Centre

4, Jalan Usahawan 6, Setapak Jaya, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

At KL City Gallery, visitors can see the development of Kuala Lumpur through miniature models, prints and photographs. The models simultaneously showcase the city’s identity and character through multimedia projection mapping with spectacular lights and an informative video. On your way out, snap a picture with the ‘I Love KL’ structure for a perfect photo opportunity and a whimsical touch of artistic expression.

KL City Gallery

Address: 27, Jln Raja, Dataran Merdeka, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

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Even if you’re not a fan of finance and economics, Bank Negara Museum is worth a visit. This institution seamlessly blends the realms of art and finance, offering a captivating exploration of Malaysia’s economic journey. The museum has six permanent galleries that delve into the Malaysian economy. There are also interactive exhibits that unravel the intricacies of monetary policy, currency evolution, and the symbiotic relationship between art and finance. If that wasn’t enough, the museum also has an art gallery that provides a rotating display of the Central Bank of Malaysia’s art collection.

Bank Negara Museum 

Address: Sasana Kijang, 2, Jalan Dato Onn, Kuala Lumpur, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Celebrate the history of Malaysia’s signature fabrics at the National Textile Museum. Located in a beautifully preserved heritage building, the museum showcases a rich collection of traditional garments, textiles, and weaving techniques from various ethnic groups. Visitors can better understand the cultural significance and craftsmanship embedded in Malaysia’s textile traditions.

National Textile Museum 

Address: 26, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

See also: History Unravelled: Textile artist Marcos Kueh explores what it means to be Sarawakian

A trip to the National Visual Arts Gallery is definitely worth it. The gallery displays an array of contemporary art pieces from regional artists. Each exhibition follows a variety of themes that draw from topics like Malaysian culture and politics.

National Visual Arts Gallery 

Address: Lembaga Pembangunan Seni Visual Negara, 2, Jalan Temerloh, off, Jln Tun Razak, 53200 Kuala Lumpur

This story was originally published on December 15, 2023, and updated on December 23, 2023 with additional reporting by Sim Wie Boon.

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