Central Market

A bridge across the Sungai Klang links the Dayabumi Complex to the CENTRAL MARKET. Fifty years ago this site was occupied by a wet market. Today, the art-deco structure of the Central Market is a cultural center for the display and development of Malaysian culture, arts and crafts as well as a haven for local artists and craftsmen. The specialty in this large covered enclave is Malaysian handicrafts. Many stores at Central Market sell clothing and other goods made from the colorful, traditional Malaysian batik - beautiful and, in most cases, hand-drawn and hand-printed fabrics. Batik makes wonderful shirts, dresses, ties and handkerchiefs. The shops and stalls within the extensively renovated building offer a heady variety of antiques, Asian artifacts, curios, souvenir items and handicrafts. Portrait artists and small-time craftsmen set up shop in various corners and proceed to work, oblivious to the stares of curious onlookers. The riverside amphitheatre outside is the venue for regular performances of traditional and contemporary dances and musical concerts. There are many performances, demonstrations, and activities offered here, including batik painting, fortune telling, shadow puppet plays, glass blowing, dance classes, art classes, and many others. A unique place to venture and perhaps pick up curios and antiques for a bargain.

Central Market is also home to one of the many Royal Selangor outlets. Royal Selangor is the largest and oldest manufacturer of pewter products in the world, having been established since 1885, and its factory is located just outside the center of the city. In fact, the factory is included on most city bus tours and offers the most comprehensive assortment of goods at its adjoining gift shop. Royal Selangor's origins are grounded in Kuala Lumpur's history as the "tin" capital of the world; thus, a stop in one of its stores is a somewhat symbolic visit to KL's commercial past. Today, they make everything from mugs and coasters to letter openers and picture frames.

Next door is CENTRAL SQUARE which houses a Cineplex, antique and souvenir shops, fast food outlets and restaurants. The complex is an extension of the development concept embodying the Central Market project and involved the rehabilitation of a row of old pre-war shophouses.