Istana Budaya
Kuala Lumpur

Istana Budaya Kuala Lumpur

Istana Budaya Kuala Lumpur (translates as Cultural Palace) was officially opened in 1999 as Malaysia’s National Performing Arts Theatre for cultural events such as classical music concerts, local and international theatre shows, traditional local music, opera, dance performances and so on.

The Building

Istana Budaya Kuala Lumpur entrance

Construction was completed in 1998 at a cost of RM 210 million. The floor area of the building covers 21,000 sqm.

Istana Budaya Kuala Lumpur architecturePhoto taken at Architecture Museum, Melaka

Its design was inspired by the Sireh Junjung, a floral arrangement of betel leaves which are used to welcome guests at Malay weddings and other ceremonial functions.

The theatre hall can accommodate an audience of 1400 people and it was the first theatre in southeast Asia to incorporate sophisticated stage equipment for world class performances.

Istana Budaya Kuala Lumpur lobby

The vast marble foyer is four storeys high. In front of the theatre are attractive fountains while the rear backs on to Lake Titiwangsa and the lights of the building reflect on the lake surface at night.

Istana Budaya Kuala Lumpur foyer

What’s On at Istana Budaya Kuala Lumpur?

The theatre is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, the Malaysia Traditional Orchestra and other dance and music groups.

There is always a packed schedule of presentations taking place throughout the year. To see what is coming up, refer to their Facebook Page. 

To give an idea of the types of performances staged here are some examples:

  • Turkish Whirling Dervish Dancers in January 2024
  • Ani Choying Drolma: An Evening of Peace Charity Concert
  • My Story
  • Konsert Mega Gegar Vaganza
  • Teater Bikers Kental
  • Gemilang Tanah Permata
  • Zombie La La La
  • Raja & Rakyat
  • Malam Nadabiru 2016
  • That Pot Of tea In ChaoShan
  • Muzikal Randai Cinduamato
  • Richard Clayderman
  • Teater Ombak Rindu
  • Lawak Ke Der
  • Shrek The Musical
  • Konsert Tiga Suara
  • Adam & Hawa
  • Teater Muzikal Mak Cun 2
  • Hi5 Fairy Tale

Opening Hours & Admission Fee

Performance times and Ticket Prices vary according to the scheduled event. Check the official website for details. 

 How to Get There

The location is marked on my interactive map on the Top KL Attractions page. 

Driving or taxi is the most convenient method. By Bus, take Rapid KL No.104. Tourists can use the KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus, stop No. 21. 


Address:

Istana Budaya,

Jalan Tun Razak,

50694 Kuala Lumpur


GPS Coordinates: 

3°10'26.6"N 101°42'12.2"E

3.174050, 101.703390


Contact:

Tel: +603-40265555

Fax: +603-40255975 

Email: info@istanabudaya.gov.my

Nearby

  • Lake Titiwangsa.The gallery backs onto this attractive lake park with a wide range of things to do for the whole family.
  • National Visual Arts Gallery. Malaysia’s official art gallery is next door.
  • National Library. A short walk away.

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