The Central Market of Kuala Lumpur is a handicrafts market clustered with diverse shops selling local arts and souvenirs. Locally known as Pasar Seni, it is a major landmark of the city.
The Central Market building was initially classified as a wet market, thereon; it has now been declared as a Heritage Site by the National Heritage Department. The art-deco style building is the focus of city's artistic community with the market arranged in the old stall-style concept, divided into sections. The second floor of Central Market Kuala Lumpur is home to a food court, offering an array of scrumptious local cuisine. The market is especially crowded for the festive shopping during Hari Raya, Deepavali and Chinese New Year.
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Shopping at Central Market of Kuala Lumpur
The Central Market houses a variety of shops which are largely located on the ground floor of the building. It is recommended that to buy Batik products such as printed tops from the central market as it offers quality products at reasonable rates. Its handicrafts and souvenirs are precise to its finest detail and are a popular buy among visitors. Few popular shops in the central market are:
Pak Lang Dodol: It is located on the ground floor of the building. Despite being a small shop, it sells quality Malaysian snacks and sweets.
ARCH Collections: ARCH features several 2D art pieces and 3D monuments. These items can also be customized according to the needs of the customers. Each piece is a display and marvel of fine workmanship. Every small detail has been taken into account for and people can gift take back a small part of Kuala Lumpur when they head back.
Asli Craft: A good shop for picking out home decor and souvenirs made by local handicrafts. Asli Craft is filled with beautiful handicrafts and is located on the ground floor of the building.
Borneo Pearls: Borneo Pearls is a haven for pearl collectors. There are a variety of freshwater pearls available that capture all the elements of the Borneo community. These jewelry are authentic and are immersed in history.
House of Silver: This shop is full of authentic silver and has several handicrafts precise to its finest detail. The House of Silver also accepts corporate contracts for gifts and other customization at reasonable prices. This shop is located on the ground floor of the market.
There are several eateries in the Central Market offering delectable Malaysian Cuisine. The building is full of eateries that cater to different cultures and tastes. From street food to fine dining experience, this building has it all. Some of the popular restaurants are in the Central Market are:
Precious Old China: This restaurant & bar offers a fine dining experience amidst the antique and cultural heritage of the city. It is particularly known for its traditional Nyonya snack, Pie Tee. Known for its delicious seafood and meat recipes, it is located on the mezzanine floor of the building.
Putu Bambu Tradisi: This restaurant specializes in halal meat and sweets. Putu Bambu Tradisi is a famous street food joint and offers quality products at cheap rates. It is especially known for Putu Bambu- a sweet cake with rice flour, coconut and pandan leaf syrup. It is located near Kasturi Walk.
Gyuniku Signature: This stall include Ais Kacang with Ice Cream and Mua Chi, a traditional snack in Penang. It is located on the ground floor of the market.
Secret Recipe: Known for its cakes and sweets, this stall is particularly famous for Chocolate Indulgence; a cake that will leave dessert cravings satisfied.
Entertainment & Activities
Fish Spa: The Central Market is famous for its affordable fish spas. The fish spa involves visitors dipping feet in a tub of water where small fishes remove the dead skin cells of the feet. It is located on the ground floor of the building.
Illusion 3D Art Museum: The museum features gigantic 3D paintings and an immersive Augmented Reality Experience. It is a great place for Instagram fanatics as the hyper-realistic photos take photos to a new height.
Do-It-Yourself Batik Painting: Ainna Artwork conducts a daily workshop at Central Market Kuala Lumpur to educate people about Batik Painting. People interested in Batik Painting can create their own Batik Art. It also showcases artworks by different in-house artists and showcases the exotic nature of Malaysian Art Forms.
Henna Art: Visit the Unique Art of Henna to get a temporary tattoo using a henna plant. Charges vary according to the size and design (RM20-RM40). It is located on the ground floor of the market.
Chinese Seal: This is one of the four treasured arts in Chinese Culture and was used as a stamp to prove the authenticity of official government paperwork. Visit KU26 to see it yourself.
Name on Rice: Names are engraved on rice using a fountain pen. The rice is then sealed in a casing according to the visitor's preference. It can be used as an accessory or even customized into a necklace or bracelet according to the needs of the visitor. Charges start from RM 16 and can vary according to the customization.
Weekly Cultural Programme: The market holds a weekly cultural program every Saturday at 8:00 PM. The Programme aims at educating visitors about Malaysia’s rich cultural history.
Cultural & Heritage Tour Programme: It is open to people of different age groups and takes place from Monday- Sunday, 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM. It features three workshops and a guided tour in the Central Market. It is necessary to make bookings for two weeks in advance.
Monthly Event: Central Market usually conducts a monthly event in its building in accordance with the festivals around the country. It is accompanied by dance, songs, and parades of all kinds.
