Discover the Biggest Museum in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia is home to a diverse range of museums that showcase its rich history, culture, and heritage. From traditional artifacts to contemporary art, these museums offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s past and present. Here are the five largest museums in Malaysia:

• National Museum of Malaysia

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the National Museum of Malaysia is the oldest and largest museum in the country. Established in 1958, the museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Malaysia’s history and culture, from prehistoric times to the present day. Highlights include the negara boat, a traditional Malay boat used for fishing and trading, and the Keris, a type of traditional Malay dagger.

• Perak Museum

Located in the city of Taiping, the Perak Museum is the second-largest museum in Malaysia. Established in 1883, the museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Perak. Highlights include the Perak Man, a 11,000-year-old skeleton that is one of the oldest human remains found in Southeast Asia, and the Perak Royal Regalia, a collection of royal artifacts used by the sultans of Perak.

• Sarawak Museum

Located in the city of Kuching, the Sarawak Museum is the oldest museum in Borneo. Established in 1888, the museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Sarawak. Highlights include the Borneo Gallery, which features exhibits on the indigenous people of Sarawak, and the Natural History Gallery, which features exhibits on the flora and fauna of the region.

• Sabah Museum

Located in the city of Kota Kinabalu, the Sabah Museum is the largest museum in Sabah. Established in 1965, the museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Sabah. Highlights include the Sabah Gallery, which features exhibits on the indigenous people of Sabah, and the Natural History Gallery, which features exhibits on the flora and fauna of the region.

• Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Located in the city of Kuala Lumpur, the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is the largest museum of Islamic art in Southeast Asia. Established in 1998, the museum houses a collection of over 12,000 artifacts and exhibits from around the Islamic world. Highlights include the Quran Gallery, which features a collection of rare and historic Qurans, and the Textile Gallery, which features a collection of Islamic textiles from around the world.

The 7 Biggest Museum near Kuala Lumpur

Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery

• Address: Sasana Kijang, 2, Jalan Dato Onn, Kuala Lumpur, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.6 (4004)
• Phone: +60 3-9179 2784
• Website:
• Opening hours:
  
  Monday: Closed

  Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Reviews:
  
  Martika✭✭✭✭✭

  2 months ago

  A good place to know about money ? Before u enter u need to qc scan and filled the form and go to the administration, the lady will explain to u about the museum where we need to start, do and don’t, and we need to put our bag in the storage that provided. You are only allowed to bring purchase and phone. Take pic is allowed but some of place no flash light. The place is very comfortable with Air-conditioning inside, It has 3 stairs which can go by lift or stairs. Every floor has a different showroom and toilets are clean. I spent 2-3 hours here and really enjoyed it.

  Fikri Mohd✭✭✭✭

  in the last week

  It’s free! The 1Mil tunnel is on the first floor. 3 levels of art galleries are really unique and different from what I expected from a national bank. Bags are not allowed only smartphones and wallet. Put that in consideration just for convenience.

  Khalida A✭✭✭✭✭

  4 months ago

  Great place to spend on the weekends and it’s free of charge! A lot of interactive stuff that make the learning enjoyable. We spent about 3 -4 hours to finish everything. There are 4 floors and the first floor is suitable for children with lots of activities. Recommended to everyone from children to adult. Wheelchair and stroller friendly.

  Jamie Kang✭✭✭✭✭

  2 weeks ago

  This museum is one of the most specialized art museums in Kuala Lumpur not only on the economic history of Malaysia but also the basic principles of monetary systems, trading and financial institutions for primary education. I think the galleries here are best curated and maintained compared to the other well-known public museums which in many cases were quite disappointing. And don’t forget to see the artworks in the special gallery on the 3rd floor- the exhibited pieces were absolutely mesmerizing, and it’s been a great joy for me to have a chance to know the traditional shadow peppetry ‘Wayang Kulit’ in the recent exhibition.

  Qian Yi✭✭✭✭✭

  5 months ago

  I had quite an enjoyable afternoon here. Spent almost an hour to sweep through all four floors and then went again when the crowd died down. Personally I feel that the interactive exhibitions are more suited for children and not adults. But the place is packed with instagrammable spots and info to read so it was fairly enjoyable. Entrance is free, they just need you to register by scanning a QR code. Parking is also free and ample. I parked at LG5 and took the lift which lead me directly to the entrance of the museum. Only phones, camera and wallet allowed in so no tripods or small handbags. Would recommend to visit on weekdays to avoid the crowd. It’s not very nice when you’re trying to look at the exhibits while the kids are screaming and running around you.

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

• Address: Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, Jalan Lembah, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.7 (4492)
• Phone: +60 3-2092 7070
• Website:
• Opening hours:
  
  Monday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

  Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

  Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

  Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

  Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

  Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

  Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Reviews:
  
  Sajeed Tarif✭✭✭✭✭

  a week ago

  This place is good and anyone can learn some history about Islam.

  The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia showcases a captivating collection of Islamic art spanning centuries and diverse cultures. From intricate calligraphy to exquisite textiles, the museum provides a rich insight into the Islamic world’s artistic heritage. Its well-curated exhibits, educational programs, and architectural charm make it a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the beauty and cultural significance of Islamic art.

  Al1965✭✭✭✭✭

  2 weeks ago

  I am not religious at all but I like to visit these places. This was magnificent. Really enjoyed it. Most of my photos were of the intricate roof domes. They are breathtaking. Nice modern building and everything is well spaced out so you can wander about at your leisure.

  Abdul Mugis✭✭✭✭✭

  2 weeks ago

  Learn about Islamic history, culture, clothings, trade, and other ways of life and traditions over several centuries.

  There evidences of pure Islamic culture, Arabian culture, and their interactions with the Romans, Persians, Northern Africans, Chinese, Indians, and Europeans.

  A lot about Islamic and Persian calligraphy are captured, which are intertwined. Records of astrology and human biology are kept in the museum. Malay traditional medicine has some text in one of the areas.

  Architecture of various regions and periods of more than 20 mosque compounds / study centres are kept in the museum. They’re amazing.

  The museum has a very serene environment, a bookshop with good stationary, designs, study materials, etc. There is also a restaurant for individual and family dining.

  It is a great place for history and calligraphy students, opened to all people irrespective of their religion.

  It cost MYR 20 for an adult entry and MYR 10 for a student. Students must show their student ID cards or at least its electronic version.

  MrBean&Kho.✭✭✭✭✭

  3 months ago

  The museum is an unique example of high level of elegance and of serenity: The whole building is beautiful. All their ceiling domes are sublime. The paintings of special exposition « Mirror or Mirage? » are stunning. This museum applies the same entrance fees to local and foreigners, and open every day, except during Islamic main celebration days.

  Joe McAyr✭✭✭✭✭

  a month ago

  Excellent museum for all kinds of Islamic Art, culture, architecture, pottery and ceramic, antique weapons (with a great presentation of ancient Kris knife’s), fabric and Quran exhibits. The museum starts with amazing mini replica of 20+ mosques which give a fabulous visual tour through the varied Islamic building and decoration style

The National Museum of Malaysia

• Address: Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jln Damansara, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.3 (11629)

Kuala Lumpur City Gallery

• Address: 27, Jln Raja, Dataran Merdeka, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.3 (2547)

National Textiles Museum

• Address: 26, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.6 (1744)

Muzium Telekom

• Address: Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.3 (1384)

Royal Malaysia Police Museum

• Address: 5, Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.5 (650)

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Top Museum Alternatives in Kuala Lumpur

Aside from traditional museums, Kuala Lumpur offers several unique alternatives for tourists and locals alike. These alternatives provide a different perspective on the city’s culture, history, and art scene.

1. Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is one of the top museum alternatives in the city. It is the largest museum of its kind in Southeast Asia, showcasing a vast collection of Islamic artwork and artifacts from around the world. The museum aims to promote understanding and appreciation of Islamic art and heritage, with over 7,000 objects on display. It features various galleries dedicated to different themes such as architecture, calligraphy, textiles, and jewelry. Visitors can also enjoy the beautifully landscaped courtyard and a traditional Islamic garden within the museum premises.

2. Petrosains, The Discovery Centre

If you’re interested in science and technology, a visit to Petrosains is a must. Located in the Suria KLCC mall, Petrosains is an interactive science discovery center that combines education and entertainment. The museum is designed to make learning fun for all ages, with immersive exhibits, hands-on activities, and multimedia displays. Explore the world of petroleum, space, dinosaurs, and even experience an earthquake simulation. The highlight of the museum is the Dark Ride, a thrilling virtual journey through Malaysia’s oil and gas industry. Petrosains offers an exciting and educational experience for both kids and adults.

3. National Visual Arts Gallery

The National Visual Arts Gallery, also known as Balai Seni Visual Negara, is a contemporary art gallery located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It promotes and preserves Malaysian art, showcasing a wide range of modern and contemporary artworks. The gallery features various exhibitions and installations by local and international artists, making it an important hub for the local art scene. Visitors can expect to see paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia artworks. The gallery also hosts art workshops, talks, and events to engage the public and foster artistic appreciation.

• Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
• Petrosains, The Discovery Centre
• National Visual Arts Gallery

Thank you for taking the time to read our article. For more in-depth reviews and comprehensive ratings on the Museum spots, please explore the recommended articles listed below.