In the middle of this picture, the old Kuala Lumpur train station, a masterpiece by British architect Arthur Benison Hubback, attracts me with its historical breath of the Southeast Asian railway era, when trains ran unhurriedly.
A corner of the old Kuala Lumpur train station
The station’s Arabic-style architecture, with its delicate arches and domes, is a step back in time and a reflection on culture and history. When I arrived at the no longer crowded station, I met an Italian artist who had drawn the station facade in pencil. She said she was passionate about architectural masterpieces like this.
Then we parted ways and I headed back to Chinatown, the train stations not far away, about a 10 minute walk. Chinatown Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant area with a strong Chinese feel. Tradition is oozing from the colourful shops, temples and street food corners. It is a magnet for both tourists and locals.
Chinatown murals
Each street tells a different story. The bustling main street of this area is Petaling Street. It is essentially a market, where everything from fashion to electronics and street food is available. Even Malaysia's famous durian, which when asked why it was written in Vietnamese, one vendor replied: "Because Vietnamese people buy a lot of it!". Remember to bargain when shopping here, except for the durian!
Durian for sale in Petaling Street Market, Chinatown, Malaysia
I also found a small alley hidden deep in the neighborhood with colorful murals. That is Kwai Chai Hong, which is present as a street art museum recording a part of the history and culture of Chinatown Kuala Lumpur. Chinatown is also a culinary paradise. The flavors are diverse from nasi lemak, char kway teow, pisang goreng to teh tarik.
From 6pm, the whole neighborhood becomes bustling with many shops set up on the sidewalk. Having a snack and drinking a bottle of beer, watching the men and women go by is truly interesting!
Malaysia’s Chinatown is not just a place, but an invitation to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of this neighborhood. After admiring the old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and strolling around Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, I felt like I had completed a meaningful and interesting trip. I not only admired an architectural masterpiece but also experienced a unique culture and enjoyed delicious Malaysian Chinese food.
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