Malaysia is rapidly becoming a hotspot for travellers seeking fresh and exciting experiences. These new destinations offer a diverse array of experiences, from vibrant cityscapes and cutting-edge technology to serene natural beauty.
Whether you’re snapping photos at a viral hotspot, exploring a futuristic retail space, or wandering through a lush garden, Malaysia’s latest attractions promise to make your visit unforgettable. Here’s a closer look at these must-visit spots that are redefining the Malaysian travel landscape.
1. Maybank Gaya Street, Sabah
Tucked away on Jalan Pantai in Kota Kinabalu’s Gaya Street area is an unexpected tourist magnet, a shuttered Maybank outlet. This once-ordinary bank branch closed for renovations, has captured the spotlight thanks to its vibrant yellow signboard and modern urban setting. It is believed that a Chinese influencer’s post on Xiaohongshu turned the spot into a viral sensation.
According to Chinese tourists, the striking colour and sleek design of the building make it an ideal location for eye-catching photographs. Visitors flock to the site to snap selfies against the backdrop of the bright yellow signage, turning what was once a simple bank into a cultural phenomenon. Beyond the photo ops, the area is perfect for a leisurely city stroll, offering a taste of Kota Kinabalu’s urban charm.
Address: 9, Jalan Pantai, Kota Kinabalu
2. Apple The Exchange TRX
Kuala Lumpur’s skyline has gained a new landmark with the opening of the Apple The Exchange TRX on 22nd June 2024. As the sixth Apple Store in Southeast Asia, the Apple The Exchange TRX elevated the shopping experience with its cutting-edge design and innovative services. Apple aficionados have been greeted with the brand’s signature blend of sleek, modern architecture and immersive technology.
The store not only showcases Apple’s latest products but also offers a space where technology meets lifestyle. For tech enthusiasts and Apple fans, this new store has become a must-visit destination, embodying the company’s commitment to both form and function.
Address: L1.40, The Exchange TRX, Persiaran TRX, Tun Razak Exchange, 55188 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
3. The Secret Garden 1 Utama
For those seeking a green escape, The Secret Garden at 1 Utama in Petaling Jaya is a botanical wonderland that offers both tranquillity and visual splendour. Spanning 30,000 square feet and perched 35 metres above ground, this high-tech rooftop garden is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. Visitors can explore nearly 500 species of exotic plants, from Amazon water lilies to giant colocasia.
The garden’s design features include a striking chandelier-like curtain of stringy cissus and a fairy light-lit seating area, creating a picturesque setting perfect for photographs. The meticulous care of the garden’s bio-carbon soil and the diverse plant collection reflects the dedication of renowned botanists who have brought this urban sanctuary to life.
Address: Upper Roof (above Food Republic, 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Will you visit any of these places?
Sources: Instagram(1)(2)(3)(4), Xiaohongshu
Melissa Royan contributed to this article.
