Putrajaya

For those who arrive at the LCCT terminal on a first time visit to Malaysia would probably make their way to the capital city via a trunk road that will take them to the Maju Expressway (MEX). But just after they exit the trunk road, they can’t help but notice a large area on the right side of the highway that is dotted with large, beautifully designed buildings which include some impressive looking bridges. They will also notice a large unique looking building on a hill overlooking the entire area. This is Putrajaya, Malaysia’s New Federal Government Administrative Centre which houses the Prime Minister’s Office, various Government agencies, and housing areas for the staff and their families.

Located south of Kuala Lumpur and only about 30 minutes drive from the city, Putrajaya was the brainchild of former Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad, and named after the first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra. It is situated within the Multimedia Super Corridor and is envisioned to be a modern, well-designed city. One of the first things visitors to Putrajaya would notice is the garden-like environment that is prevalent in the city. This is because it was planned to enhance the natural landscape with large tract of open spaces and wide roads that are expected to be able to accommodate future expansions.

You really should pay a visit to Putrajaya and since it’s a relatively small area at the moment, a day would be more than enough. The best place to start would be the Putra Square that overlooks the panoramic Putrajaya Lake. Here, you can visit the beautiful Putra Mosque which 16-meter minaret is the tallest in Southeast Asia, as well as take pictures of the Perdana Putra, the official office complex of the Prime Minister. You can also take a short walk to the pier and go on a boat cruise for an amazing tour of the city. Stop by the Millennium Monument, shaped like an obelisk and constructed of solid metal. It is more impressive at night when it serves as a beacon that sweeps lights over parts of Putrajaya. For those who are interested in getting to know more about Malaysia’s intellectual heritage, you may want to visit the Perdana Leadership Foundation. The Perdana Library would be a great place to spend an afternoon. Other places worth visiting would be the Botanical Gardens, Putrajaya Wetlands Park and Taman Putra Perdana for a spot of relaxation in a natural environment.

Getting affordable food is quite easy in Putrajaya. If you would like to take in the calming scenery of the lake, head down to Selera Putra which is located next to Putra Mosque. It’s an air-conditioned food court with various stalls offering local dishes. You could also drive down to Presint 8 where there is an open air food frequented mostly by the local residents and government staff. The food is fairly cheap and you can choose from local or Western dishes at Harris Bistro. This place is open daily from late morning till late night. For a bit more upmarket environment, you always make your way to the hotels’ restaurant and lounges. For chain outlets, the best bet is to make your way to Alamanda Mall where you can also do a bit of shopping.

Getting to Putrajaya can be a bit tricky if you don’t have your own transportation. The fastest way would be to take the ERL to Putrajaya station and from there you can take the bus to get to most areas of the city.

Accommodation in Putrajaya is not a problem. Located about 10 minutes drive away on the fringe of the city is Putrajaya Marriott Hotel. This popular 5-star hotel is situated the IOI Resort complex, surrounded by lush greenery and a golf course next door. Aside from being a favourite lunch spot for government officials, Putrajaya Marriot Hotel’s attraction lies in its décor that evoke warm hospitality and exclusivity. With 380 luxuriously furnished rooms, fully equipped facilities, excellent service and staff that is friendly and accommodating, Putrajaya Marriot Hotel is certainly a good choice if you’re thinking of staying close to Putrajaya. With a starting rate of RM380 (USD100), Putrajaya Marriott Hotel offers a stay you’ll remember for a long time.

The newest hotel to open its door in Putrajaya, the Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside Hotel is a 5-star hotel that offers business travellers and tourists an unforgettable stay in the city. With an impressive architecture that highlight different cultures in Malaysia, namely Malay, Chinese, Indian and Borneo, staying here is like staying in a few different places at the same time. There is even a wing decorated to evoke an Arabian night’s ambience. What decadent luxury. The hotel is located on the edge of the Putrajaya Lake and each room has a magnificent view of the city. It prides itself in providing excellent service with wireless hotspot in the lobby as well as other parts of the hotel, professional staff that would do their best to accommodate your requests and a host of other facilities. From a starting rate of RM240 (USD68), you may just want to stay longer than planned.

Opened in February 2003, Putrajaya Shangri-la Hotel is an exclusive 5-star property that promises not just a luxurious ambience but also commitment to excellence by its entire staff. Located on the hilltop of Taman Putra Perdana which overlooks the Prime Minister’s Office, Putrajaya Shangri-La Hotel certainly occupies an advantageous spot in the city. Designed in contemporary style with distinctive blend of the local heritage, the ambience of the hotel is one that is both warm and welcoming. The guest floors are designed based on natural themes; the palm, bamboo, aromatic herbs and water plants. Much thought was put into the design to ensure a harmonious flow of the ‘chi’. The starting rate of RM298 (USD85) for a deluxe room is a great bargain for a memorable stay.