From Boo Jia Cher
The vibrant core of Kuala Lumpur, known for its unique architecture and lively streets, has gradually declined due to suburban sprawl and the focus on car-centric developments.
There has been a revival of energy in the city, thanks to efforts from City Hall and organisations like Think City.
However, a glaring eyesore remains: the Plaza Rakyat site, where an ambitious mixed-use project was abandoned after its developer faced difficulties in the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis.
Attempts to revive it have been stalled by legal and economic obstacles.
A more radical solution would be to transform the derelict structure into a vibrant cultural hub for Kuala Lumpur by relocating Istana Budaya, Balai Seni Negara, and the National Library from Jalan Tun Razak to the Plaza Rakyat site.
These cultural institutions would benefit from being situated in a central area that emphasises pedestrian safety and accessibility, offering a more enjoyable atmosphere.
The site’s strategic location, adjacent to LRT and MRT stations and within walking distance of popular attractions like Central Market, Petaling Street, and Bukit Bintang, promises enhanced accessibility and connectivity.
By investing in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and public amenities, we can create a more inviting and engaging environment for visitors.
Consolidating cultural institutions at Plaza Rakyat would foster synergies in programming, events, and educational activities, creating a vibrant and interconnected cultural ecosystem.
Proximity to other cultural and creative spaces, such as a new textile museum at Merdeka 118, GMBB, the Zhongshan Building, Central Market, and the murals around Petaling Street, would further enrich the district’s cultural offerings.
Imagine an annual arts festival taking over the heart of Kuala Lumpur, featuring craft markets, music performances, theatre shows, book readings, and art exhibitions across these multiple venues, all pulsating with life for a week each year, becoming one of the most exciting international arts festivals in Asia.
This initiative aligns with broader urban revitalisation efforts by stimulating local economies, boosting tourism and supporting neighboring small businesses.
Reviving Plaza Rakyat is crucial to improving the entire area, with Pudu Sentral feeling eerily quiet and nearby shophouses facing challenges in attracting tenants.
Cultural quarters in the middle of cities with good public transport and pedestrian access have proven successful worldwide.
For instance, the Perth Cultural Centre in Australia serves as a vibrant hub with institutions like the Perth Concert Hall and Art Gallery of Western Australia; Singapore’s Civic District houses, iconic museums and beautiful gardens; and Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui, a dynamic district known for its cultural attractions and waterfront views.
A worthwhile challenge
Transforming Plaza Rakyat into a cultural quarter will undoubtedly be challenging and costly.
Renovating or demolishing existing structures and building new ones to meet modern standards require significant investment. Securing funding will involve a mix of public and private investments, grants, and other financial mechanisms, which can be a lengthy process.
However, the potential benefits are substantial. A cultural quarter could enrich the local landscape, enrich the minds of young Malaysians, attract tourism, stimulate economic growth, and foster a stronger sense of community.
By improving the area’s aesthetics and functionality, it could contribute positively to broader urban renewal efforts. This all aligns with both the housing and local government ministry’s new Urban Redevelopment Act and Think City’s Kuala Lumpur creative and cultural district strategic master plan.
A thoughtful and well-executed plan, involving the community and sustainable funding, could transform Plaza Rakyat into a thriving cultural hub. This would create a new centre of Kuala Lumpur that all Malaysians can celebrate.
Boo Jia Cher is an FMT reader.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.