Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, we always thought we knew the city like the back of our hands…
The shortcuts, the usual makan spots, the places we would bring out-of-town friends. But as SYOK took to the streets to truly explore KL, we realised how much more there is to the city than what we have grown used to seeing.
Beneath the familiar skyline and busy roads are layers of stories, creativity and heritage that quietly shape who we are. And discovering these hidden gems was genuinely amazing!
That sense of rediscovery is exactly what Airbnb and Think City are championing with the launch of the Airbnb Heritage Guide to Kuala Lumpur, a digital travel companion created to celebrate the capital’s living heritage, vibrant neighbourhoods and creative communities, including the emerging Warisan KL movement.
Developed in support of Malaysia’s broader vision to strengthen heritage tourism ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026, the guide shines a spotlight on Kuala Lumpur’s historic and cultural landmarks, local artisans, culinary treasures and creative spaces. More importantly, it tells the stories of the people behind these places, showing how the past and present continue to shape KL’s identity as a modern cultural capital.
“As Malaysia prepares to welcome millions of visitors for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, this partnership demonstrates how the public and private sectors can come together to make a meaningful impact,” said Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s Country Head for India and Southeast Asia.
“By shining a light on Kuala Lumpur’s cultural heartbeat, we hope to inspire more travellers to explore responsibly, support local communities, and experience Malaysia’s unique heritage through a sustainable and inclusive tourism model.”
The timing could not be better. Airbnb data shows continued growth across Malaysia, with Kuala Lumpur emerging as the most-booked Malaysian city in the first half of 2025. Other heritage-rich destinations such as Penang, Malacca and Kuching remain firm favourites too, a clear sign that travellers are increasingly seeking cultural and heritage-based experiences.
“Kuala Lumpur is moving with an exciting energy as its heritage, culture and community life continue to be re-energised through collective city efforts taking place across the capital as we approach 2026,” said Datuk Hamdan Abdul Majeed, Managing Director of Think City. “The Heritage Guide, shaped through our collaboration, invites travellers to immerse themselves in KL’s heritage and cultural offerings, enriching the visitor journey while reaffirming the pride residents hold in the city’s identity.”
What’s inside the Airbnb Heritage Guide to Kuala Lumpur?
Designed for travellers and locals who want more meaningful experiences, the guide uncovers KL through its architecture, food, markets, crafts, creative spaces and local hosts, each representing the city’s living cultural heritage.
Highlights include:
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Cultural and Creative Landmarks: From the iconic Central Market to GMBB’s thriving creative community and the indie spirit of Zhongshan Building.
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Historic Icons: Dataran Merdeka and its neighbouring St. Mary’s Cathedral, the city’s oldest church, standing quietly amid the bustle of modern KL.
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Food, Stories and Neighbourhood Life: From Betel Leaf’s soulful Tamil Nadu flavours in the heart of the city, to Jao Tim, a lovingly restored shophouse turned jazz bar, and Riwayat Bookstore, a sanctuary for local literature.
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Local Hosts and Cultural Storytellers: Including Manjeet Dillon, who brings Malaysian heritage to life through her Culture on a Plate food experience.
Exploring KL through this guide reminded us why this city will always feel like home. Not because we know everything about it, but because there is always more to discover.
Thanks to Airbnb and Think City, we are looking at Kuala Lumpur with fresh eyes, and honestly, it feels like we are just getting started. We will definitely be exploring KL a lot more from here on out!
