No less than Orchard Road: M'sia's housing minister unveils S$1.2 million plan for KL's Bukit Bintang in new tourism push

A major shopping district in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is set to undergo an upgrade that will rival Singapore's Orchard Road, or Tokyo's Ginza.

Malaysia's housing minister Nga Kor Ming unveiled the plan at the Oct. 29 soft launch of the "I Lite U" project, a government initiative aiming to turn Bukit Bintang — KL's premier shopping district — "even more vibrant, colourful and alive than ever before".

This is part of Malaysia's 2026 tourism campaign, as the country seeks to attract 45 million visitors next year.

According to Bernama, RM4 million (S$1,237,808) is being allocated to this programme, which will focus on enhancing city lighting to strengthen KL's nightlife culture.

Of this amount, RM2 million (S$618,904) will go to ensuring that the project not only beautifies and illuminates the city, but also supports Malaysia's sustainability goals.

Revitalise nighttime economy

As part of the plans, artistic street lighting inspired by Malaysian culture and a new Visit Malaysia 2026 sculpture will be installed.

A parade — which Nga called "as good as Disneyland's" — is also in the making for the project's official launch on Jan. 3, 2026.

The project also aims to boost tourist safety and revitalise the night-time economy to rival that of global cities Tokyo and Dubai, KL Mayor Maimunah Sharif said.

"Tourists will enjoy a more lively and safe atmosphere, entrepreneurs will benefit from a planned night-time economy, and residents will witness the beauty of a city that reflects the dignity and identity of Malaysia," she said.

Top images via Google Maps & Unsplash