(1) Let's start with an iconic one! Which of the following does this image showcase?
Like many countries, Malaysia had seen its share of conflict, most notably in the Japanese occupation during WW2 and the Malayan Emergency that followed. Many soldiers fell protecting this nation, and in their honour, the Tugu Negara (National Monument) was erected in 1966. At 15m, it’s the tallest of its kind in the world. The bronze sculpture was created by Austrian Felix de Weldon, chosen by Malaysia's first PM Tunku Abdul Rahman for the job after the premier saw one of Weldon's works, the Marine Corps War Memorial in Virginia, United States.
(2) Which famous KL building is this?
Completed in 1963, the Parliament Building consists of a three-storey building and a 77m-tall tower comprising 20-storeys. The former is where the House of Representatives (Dewan Rakyat) and Senate (Dewan Negara) convene while the latter houses the offices of the representatives. The duo can be found on the reverse side of the first series of coins issued by Bank Negara, as well as the RM1,000 banknote, which was printed from 1984 to 1999!
(3) Which familiar structure provides this dizzying vantage point of the city?
One of KL Tower's provisions for the beholder who wants a generous eyeful of Kuala Lumpur, the transparent Sky Box reaches out horizontally past the Tower's main structure, floating 300m in the air. It may take quite a bit of coaxing to step out into what seems like nothingness, but the views (and the photos) it yields are well worth steeling your nerves for! Plenty of KL perspectives can be had from KL Tower's Sky Ledge, Observation Deck and even the Atmosphere 360 revolving restaurant as well.
(4) Do you know the name of this enduring building?
The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is famed for its Moorish architecture and was previously used as the first administrative centre of the Malayan government upon its launch in 1897, and also once housed the Federal Court. It was renamed in 1974 after the fourth Sultan of Selangor, who was in power in the late 19th century during the construction of the structure. Designed by A.C. Norman and R.A.J. Bidwell, it is located opposite Dataran Merdeka. The eye-catching 40m-high clock tower is one of its many prominent features.
(5) Name the popular location depicted here.
The KL Craft Complex is where you can find not just a treasure trove of native handicrafts, but learn about their significance and even try your hand at making a few! By the entrance are a pair of East Malaysian Keliring (wooden totem poles 5.5m high) plus other traditional Malaysian symbols such as an attap hut. Other goodies on site include Artists' Colony and Craft Village with artists and artisans at work, Panggung Sari where the occasional craft show is held, Craft Museum with detailed exhibits, and Karyaneka boutique for your handicraft shopping needs.
(6) Which landmark is clad in the fetching metallic skin seen in this picture?
The 452m Petronas Twin Towers were the tallest man-made structure in the world from 1998 to 2004, but are still the tallest twin towers on the planet today! Styled by late Argentine architect César Pelli, who effortlessly incorporated Islamic motifs into his design, they feature an unforgettable steel-and-glass facade. They comprise 88 above-ground storeys apiece, with the skybridge on the 41st and 42nd levels completing the Towers' unmistakable silhouette. Dewan Filharmonik Petronas can be found at this address, and the adjacent Suria KLCC mall is a popular shopping spot with some unique tenants. The KL Convention Centre and Aquaria KLCC are nearby too, across the stunning KLCC Park!
(7) Where can you feast your eyes on this imposing edifice?
As the quintessential bastion of Malaysian history, this museum contains a raft of exhibits and artefacts that showcase the growth of the country over the years. Here you can learn about the monumental milestones and achievements of the nation and its citizens, while getting to know the cultural heritage that make up the unique and vibrant Malaysian identity. Don't miss the vintage locomotives parked out front!
(8) Which historical KL structure is this?
Designed by A.B. Hubback, the KL Railway Station was completed in 1910 and was essentially the main railway station in the city, serving as a stop for intercity locomotives for decades. In 1995, KTM Komuter services were introduced in the station. When the nearby travel hub that is KL Sentral station opened its doors in 2001, the bulk of railway activity was diverted there. However, the KL Railway station, with its over-a-century-old charm still largely intact, remains a stop for KTM Komuter and some intercity trains.
(9) Where is this mesmerising sight?
The River of Life project is a collective beautification effort intended to not only increase the water quality of over 100 kilometres' worth of eight rivers flowing through KL, but transform their strategic portions into stunning new attractions. The Blue Pool Project, the first phase, sees the convergence point of the Klang and Gombak rivers undergo an amazing makeover, complete with blue light corridor, mist nozzles, and a symphony fountain!
(10) Finally, which of the following is the gracefully lit subject of this photo?
Known as Istana Negara, which is Malay for ‘National Palace’, this spectacular building is the official residence of His Majesty, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, King of Malaysia. Completed in 2011, it replaces the old, smaller Istana at Jalan Syed Putra which has since been turned into a museum. Its Islamic-inspired architecture features a grand total of 22 domes that light up magnificently at night!
