Government launches major project to transform Bukit Bintang into the “Ginza and Orchard Road of Malaysia.”
- Erik & Aya
- Nov 3
- 3 min read
Image for illustration purposes only
Kuala Lumpur’s Bukit Bintang aims to become an international shopping district like Japan’s Ginza and Singapore’s Orchard Road, as Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming announced the “I Lite U” project.
The project, carried out in collaboration with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), aims to make the city more vibrant, colorful, and full of life than ever before. It will feature multicultural performances and parades, serving as a highlight in preparation for the “Visit Malaysia 2026” campaign.
During the pre-launch event at Pavilion KL, Minister Nga Kor Ming stated:
“My mission is to transform the Golden Triangle around Bukit Bintang into a district that rivals Tokyo’s Ginza and Singapore’s Orchard Road.”
The “I Lite U” project consists of four main components, including the replacement of street lighting with artistic designs that reflect Malaysian culture, as well as the installation of a monument for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
At the start of the project, the government allocated RM2 million to the City Hall, while Mayor Maimunah Sharif contributed an additional RM2 million, bringing the total budget to RM4 million. Minister Nga emphasized that the project not only focuses on beautifying the city’s landscape but also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2030). The ministry will also work with the Solid Waste Management Corporation and Alam Flora to maintain Bukit Bintang as a clean and vibrant area.
Furthermore, to inspire public creativity, a contest themed “Light Up the City, Inspire the Nation” will be held, featuring categories such as photography, short videos, and architectural illumination.
Minister Nga said, “Through this event, I hope the public can capture and express the beauty of Kuala Lumpur through their lenses.”
The project is set to officially kick off on Saturday, January 3, 2026, with the closure of major roads in Bukit Bintang. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will officiate the opening ceremony, which will also be attended by Tourism Minister Chang Lih Kang.
A parade will be held on the same day, and Minister Nga stated, “We will request the police to close the roads to host a parade comparable to Disneyland’s.” He also encouraged the public to use public transportation to help ease traffic congestion.
Mayor Maimunah explained that the project will enhance tourist safety at night and stimulate the nighttime economy, transforming Kuala Lumpur into a city comparable to major hubs like Tokyo and Dubai.
“Tourists will enjoy a livelier and safer atmosphere, entrepreneurs will benefit from a well-planned night economy, and residents will witness a city that reflects Malaysia’s pride and identity,” she said.
The Tourism Board aims to attract 45 million international visitors during the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign period.
Minister Nga also emphasized the importance of every Malaysian becoming a “Tourism Ambassador,” sharing the nation’s multicultural identity with the world.
“This is the true meaning of the Visit Malaysia 2026 theme — Malaysia Truly Asia,” he said.
The city council and government ministries stated that they are now achieving the goal of “Unity is Strength” through interdepartmental cooperation, moving away from the isolated, independent operations of the past.
The mayor also explained that the city hall monitors and manages the health of urban trees. During recent major events, no trees in the city were reported to have fallen, demonstrating the effectiveness of the preventive measures in place.
👉 At Tabiniko, we provide comprehensive support for your life in Malaysia — from real estate investment to relocation, educational migration, and MM2H assistance. Feel free to contact us!
📚 Sources freemalaysiatoday-”Nga hopes to make Bukit Bintang ‘the next Ginza, Orchard Road’”(29-OCT.2025) Nga hopes to make Bukit Bintang ‘the next Ginza, Orchard Road’ | FMT
東方ONLINE-”倪可敏矢打造武吉免登 成为大马版“银座”或“乌节路””(29-OCT.2025)
