Malaysia is a premier shopping destination in South East Asia. Shops, bazaars and shopping centers throughout the country offer a staggering variety of clothing, cosmetics, shoes, handbags, household conveniences and electronic apparatus. The exemption of duty on a range of items has resulted in more competitive pricing and makes shopping in Malaysia an even more attractive option.
Pasar Malam -The Night Markets of Malaysia Malaysians have long turned to the night market or ‘pasar malam' for their grocery and household needs. Despite the number of shopping facilities that have cropped up all over the country, the night market remains as popular and indispensable to Malaysians.
It started as a local market place in towns and villages where traders sold their goods in the evenings or nights. While most wet markets selling fresh produce operate during the early mornings, the ‘pasar malam' operates in the evenings. Many of them start in the afternoons and last till late night. With the day's work done, it presents an unhurried opportunity for housewives and working people to shop.
The style of the markets is similar all over. Rows of stalls and carts are lined up, brightly lit by fluorescent and halogen lamps to induce an almost fair-like atmosphere. Most traders can be seen selling an assortment of goods ranging from fresh produce and dry goods to cooked meals, cakes and cookies, household items, trinkets, clothes and accessories. Peddlers selling toys, candies and balloons try and tempt children while adults are often lured by the sale of household goods and gadgets.
Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman - Kuala Lumpur This evening market which stays open from 6 pm to 10 pm every Saturday night is a popular spot for small traders to display their homemade delicacies and other local products.
Getting there: Take the STAR LRT to the Bandaraya station and walk over. You may also walk from the Masjid Jamek stop. Taxis are available.
Masjid India - Kuala Lumpur
Known as Little India, this bustling district transports a little of India right to the doorstep of Kuala Lumpur. From beautiful saris and kurtas to colorful bangles and Indian accessories, the area is the perfect place to pick some ethnic looking goodies. The place is always crowded and bustling with sidewalk traders and traffic. The best time to be here is late afternoon till about 10 pm.
Getting there: Both Putra and Star LRTs stop at the Masjid Jamek station. From here, Masjid India is a stone's throw away.
Petaling Street - Kuala Lumpur
Almost every country has its own version of Chinatown and Kuala Lumpur 's version, Petaling Street, is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attractions here. Stocked with leather goods, t-shirts and loads of food, Petaling Street is the right place to make cheap yet exciting purchases. If you're looking to pick up items like watches, sunglasses, wallets, perfumes and other such accessories, there is no better place than P.S. Bargaining is a must. The colorful and lively evening market stays open till midnight.
Getting there: Take the Putra LRT to the Pasar Seni stop and walk over. It is also a short walk from the central bus station in the city.
Jonker s Street – Malacca
No trip to Malacca would be complete without seeing the shops along Jonker's Street. This row of 140 pre-war shop lots comprises antique shops, coffin makers, hairdressing salons, Chinese apothecaries and even an acupuncture clinic. Fridays and weekends are the best times to drop in at Jonkers, for the hours from evening till midnight see the area transformed into a gay, fair-like scene. With Malacca's rich past, it is not uncommon to find bits of treasures on the table- tops of these stalls. Pottery, brass and silver ware, odd bits of jewelry, coins from a hundred years ago and even decades-old cards and letters, all seem to find their way to Jonkers peddlers. A number of restaurants selling authentic ‘Nyonya' food as well as tropical themed bars dot the street. All in all, a walk down Jonkers Street makes a most enriching experience for bargain hunters and holiday makers looking for a laid back yet extraordinary getaway
Getting there: Centrally located at Malacca town at Jalan Hang Jebat. It is a short walking distance from the river and easily accessible from any part of town by car or trishaw.
Kota Bharu Market and Bazaar – Kelantan
Nothing short of a gourmet's paradise, the place comes alive every night with hundreds of food stalls selling local delicacies.
Getting there : Located in the center of Kota Bahru, which is easily accessible by taxis and buses.
Quaint Shops
Central Market - Kuala Lumpur
The Central Market in the heart of the city is a must stop for any tourist visiting Kuala Lumpur. What used to be a wet market some 50 years has since transformed into a hotspot of goodies and activities today. Whether it's batik, paintings, kites, wood carvings or even fortune telling, Central Market is the one place where you'd be able to pick things up for a steal. If you happen to be there at night, be sure to stay for the cultural performances and shows.
Caricature and portrait artists are located at the Portrait Corner at the ground floor. Beside them, cart-like structures sell musical instruments, exotic masks, filigrees, trinkets, tropical fruits, delicacies and sometimes even traditional medicines. Occasionally, you can witness an exotic demonstration of some kind on curious and fascinated passers-by! The Central Market also has its share of wonderful Malay, Chinese, and Indian Muslim cuisine.
Central Market is a haven for travelers seeking authentic Malaysian gifts. Shoppers can sometimes find little treasures that are seldom found elsewhere. As sales carnivals and festive seasons draw up each time, more exhibits and events add on to turn the place into a buzzing, colorful sight.
Getting there: Get on the Putra LRT and stop at the Pasar Seni station. It is also a short walk from Chinatown and the Masjid Jamek area.
KL Central - Kuala Lumpur
Located right outside the main train station, the KL Central Car park carnival has little stalls mushrooming every time a festive season draws near. Being a multi-racial society, patrons not only get good bargains but also get to observe the different cultures existing in Malaysia .
Getting there: The easiest way to get here is by using the Monorail. The KTM commuter and PUTRA LRT also have stations within the KL Sentral building .
Padang Besar - Perlis For the shoppers and the bargain hunters out there, Padang Besar's Bazaar is heaven sent. The town, situated near the Thai-Malaysian border is a popular shopping spot with goods ranging from traditional to the high-end market.
Getting there: The town sits along the train route between Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand . Buses leave from nearby towns as well.
Souq – Putrajaya
Located in Putrajaya, Souq is filled with delightful eateries, quaint shops and exhibitions. This outlet gives you a middle-eastern feel as soon as you step in. If you are a bargain hunter and love exotic finds, then Souq is ideal for you with 25 outlets and eight different factory outlet stores.
Getting there: The most convenient way to get here is to use the ERL line. Alternatively you can drive using several of the highways out of KL.
Ceramics Shopping at Ayer Hitam - Johor Ayer Hitam is a small town famous for its ceramic, pottery and porcelain crafts. Ceramic vases, crockery and the delicate porcelain here make attractive and inexpensive gifts. The bazaar-like atmosphere in itself is appealing.
Getting there: Exit the North-South Highway heading towards Ayer Hitam. Local buses leave from nearby towns.
Tangkak's Textiles – Johor
The town of Tangkak is known as the "Textile Town" of Malaysia, offering prices that are substantially lower than those in other cities. The range of fabrics and upholstery are endless, with some being produced locally while others are imported from Asian countries and Europe .
Getting there:Tangkak is right across the Malacca - Johor border and is easily accessible from the North- South Highway. Local buses leave from nearby towns.
Kota Bharu Market and Bazaar – Kelantan New Central Market
A paradise for browsing and shopping, this market offers a myriad of local handicraft including batik, leather goods, clothing and household items. Most of the vendors are women, reflecting the era of Princess Cik Siti Wan Kembang, a female sovereign.
Bamboo Fort Bazaar
This three-story shopping complex offers a wide range of souvenirs, silverware, clothing and handicraft.
Chowrasta Bazaar - Pulau Pinang
For a taste of Penang candies and delicacies, Chowrasta Bazaar is not a place to be missed. Extremely colorful and always busy, it gives visitors a glimpse of the daily life of the Penangites. The bazaar specializes in dried food and exotic Penang specialties such as nutmegs and other preserved foodstuff. Textile stores can be found deep within its confines for those who have the time to explore the maze that is Chowrasta Bazaar.
Getting there : Located at Penang Road, the bazaar is just a 10-minute walk away from
Tamu – Sabah
The Tamu weekly bazaar at Kota Belud has a carnival atmosphere. Every Sunday, village horsemen dressed in traditional garb ride in from the countryside to trade their produce. The Bajau tribesmen also demonstrate how to make the local machete known as the parang.
Getting there: Local transport is available to Kota Belud, 46.6 mi. northeast of Kota Kinabalu.
Shopping Malls
Berjaya Times Square - Kuala Lumpur
Aptly situated at the edge of the golden triangle, the city's newest shopping complex, Berjaya Times Square, just happens to be the largest shopping complex in the city. With over 1000 retailers including Britain's favorite Debenhams, the mall also houses the largest indoor theme park. With it's upcoming IMAX and 3D theatres and not to mention large bowling alleys and concert halls, this mall is definitely a must.
Getting there: Get on the monorail that stops right in front of the mall.
Lot 10/Sungai Wang Plaza/Bukit Bintang - Kuala Lumpur
Placed strategically at the city's Golden Triangle, these three outlets offer various shops with affordable yet trendy items.
Getting there: The area can be reached by buses, taxis and intercity trains from several points. All malls are walking distance from each other.
Star Hill Center - Kuala Lumpur
If you are looking for designer-wear to refurbish that high-end wardrobe, this is the one stop for you. With designer outlets on every floor, the quiet and classy ambience is a perfect way to spend the afternoon.
Getting there: The area can be accessed by buses, taxis and intercity trains (monorail) from several points.
One Utama - Kuala Lumpur
This newly renovated mall has so much more to offer. Tucked away neatly in a quiet suburb, be prepared to spend the entire day at this outlet. 600 unique and distinctive outlets encompass fashion, food & beverages, shoes, bags, accessories, home interior, jewelry, sports, leisure and entertainment and much more. You can even surf the web with 1 Utama's free wireless internet connection anywhere within the new wing.
Getting there: Buses are available form the town center . You may also take the PUTRA LRT to the Kelana Jaya station and then a taxi to the mall.
Suria KLCC - Kuala Lumpur
One of the most beautiful shopping complexes in the country, Suria KLCC is right in the heart of the city and it is adjoined to Petronas Twin Towers . With six levels of classy, tasteful outlets, each offering its own style and character and more than 270 stores, you can shop till you drop here. From sophisticated designers to local favorites, electrical goods to books and not to mention handicraft and souvenirs, your holiday here will not be complete if you don't shop at KLCC.
Getting there: The best way is to use the Putra LRT, which stops right at KLCC. Taxis and almost all major bus lines service this area too.
Mid Valley Megamall – Selangor One of the longest malls in South East Asia, the Mid Valley Megamall is located just before the city and has a wide range of outlets. Shoes, textiles, make up bars, sporting goods, watches and pens, feng shui outlets and even a large pet store, you can find almost all you need here.
Getting there: The nearest LRT stop is the Bangsar station. Shuttle buses leave for the mall from here. Taxis and buses are available from the town center too.
Sunway Pyramid – Selangor
This Egyptian styled mall is a little further from the city but the ice skating rink in the middle of the mall will have shoppers amused. What is different here is that the shops in this outlet are not as high end as the other malls.
Getting there: Buses and taxis are available from KL town center. You may also take the KTM commuter and get off at the Subang Jaya station; from there take a taxi to the mall.
Popular Shopping Destinations
Pulau Pinang The "Pearl o f the Orient" is a great place to shop. Products available include textiles, clothing, electronic goods, sports items, handicraft s and souvenirs. Main shopping areas are in town while smaller shops can be found by popular beaches. Popular shopping malls include KOMTAR, Perangin Mall, Midlands Park, Island Plaza, Penang Plaza, Gama Supermarket and the Pacific Mega Mall. Penang 's old world shopping streets offer a host of goods including jewelry , antique and clothing. The most popular stretches are along Penang Road, Campbell Street, Chulia Street, Beach Street and Masjid Kapitan Keling Road .
Langkawi The Oriental Village situated at Burau Bay is one of the island's most unique shopping, cultural and culinary destinations. Specially designed to provide resort duty free shopping, the Oriental Village offers 470 brands and 17,000 products consisting of international designer labels and local products. Bold displays of culture, fashion and fascinating handicraft demonstrations can be seen here.
Kelantan Kelantan is famous for its production of top quality batik, brocade, silverware, aluminum and bamboo products. Kelantan silverware is exquisite and highly prized for design and quality. Handicraft items are available throughout the state, especially in Kota Bahru. The Central Market offers batik, bamboo articles, and aluminum ware. For batik, voile, cotton, rayon and silk, try the shops on Jalan Temenggong, Wisma Batik on Jalan Maju and Kampung Penambang where you can observe craftsmen at work. Those interested in silverware will be delighted with the shops and the silver craft on Jalan Sultanah Zainab.
Terengganu Chendering is 3.7 mi. south of Kuala Terengganu where the Sutera Semai Center and the Malaysian Handicraft Center are located. Silk, batik and brocade can be bought at the Sutera Semai Center while the Malaysian Handicraft Center presents demonstrations of basket weaving, songket weaving, wood carving and making of tops and keris.
Malacca A good range of antiques and hardware furniture from the region can be found in Malacca . The main attractions here are porcelain, brassware, silverware, lamps, coins, sarong material, batik and gemstones. Souvenir stalls selling trinkets can be found at the Cultural Museum, next to the Christ Church . Art galleries and shops selling more expensive items are on Jalan Laksamana. For antiques, wood carvings and old furniture, check out Chinatown 's antique shops along Jalan Hang Jebat (Jonkers Street) and Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock.
Johor The ‘Southern Gateway to Malaysia' is fast becoming a shoppers' haven. There is an immense variety of goods and the state is noted for ceramics and handicraft. The Holiday Plaza in Johor Bahru has one of the longest shopping arcades. Within the city are modern shopping complexes like Tun Abdul Razak Complex, Kotaraya Plaza, Lien Hoe Plaza and Pelangi Plaza. Bazaars and open-air night markets are found throughout the city.
For local handicraft, the Mawar Complex on Jalan Sungai Chat is a ‘must visit' destination. The Johor Area Rehabilitation Organisation (JARO) has a shop at Jalan Waterworks selling baskets and soft toys made by the disabled. The Johor Handicraft Center at Jalan Skudai has hand-drawn batik cloth and paintings, straw mats and other items. Sri Ayu Batik Industries at Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, is known for batik making and songket weaving demonstrations and copper tooling. The Aw Pottery factory in Ayer Hitam attracts both local and foreign tourists to its Minangkabau showroom, which displays a variety of pottery for sale.
