Kuala Lumpur

Discover Kuala Lumpur: A Guide for Scout Tourists

Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant capital of Malaysia, is a city that blends modern skyscrapers with rich cultural heritage. For scout tourists, KL offers a variety of attractions, historical landmarks, and affordable accommodations suited for adventurers. Whether you're visiting for a scouting event, an educational trip, or just exploring, this guide will help you make the most of your stay in this dynamic city.

WSB Office in Brickfields: A Must-Visit for Scouts

One of the most significant places for scouts visiting Kuala Lumpur is the World Scout Bureau (WSB) office, located in Brickfields. This office serves as a key administrative center for the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM), supporting scouting programs worldwide. Visiting the WSB is a great opportunity for scouts to learn about the global impact of scouting, interact with international scout leaders, and gain insights into how scouting fosters youth development across different cultures.

Brickfields itself is known as KL’s Little India, famous for its colorful streets, delicious Indian cuisine, and unique shopping experience. After visiting the WSB office, scouts can explore the area, enjoy traditional Indian sweets, and experience the vibrant local culture.

Merdeka 118: Reaching New Heights

Kuala Lumpur is home to some of the tallest and most impressive skyscrapers in the world, and one of its newest landmarks is Merdeka 118. Standing at 678.9 meters, it is the second-tallest building in the world, surpassed only by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. This architectural marvel is a symbol of Malaysia’s progress and independence, as it is built near Stadium Merdeka, where Malaysia declared its independence in 1957.

For scouts with a love for adventure, visiting Merdeka 118 is a must. While the building itself is a commercial structure, the observation deck offers breathtaking views of Kuala Lumpur. The surrounding area also includes cultural attractions such as Chinatown, Petaling Street, and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, all within walking distance.

Exploring Kuala Lumpur’s Attractions

Beyond the WSB office and Merdeka 118, Kuala Lumpur is filled with exciting places for scouts to visit. Here are some must-see attractions:

• Petronas Twin Towers – Once the tallest buildings in the world, these twin towers remain an iconic landmark. The Skybridge and Observation Deck provide panoramic views of the city.

• Masjid Negara - Completed in 1965, the mosque is a bold and modern approach in reinforced concrete, symbolic of the aspirations of a then newly independent nation. 

• Jamek Mosque, officially Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Kuala Lumpur, built in 1909. It is located at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers and may be accessed via Jalan Tun Perak. It was the principal mosque of Kuala Lumpur until the construction of the national mosque Masjid Negara in 1965 

• KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur) – Another fantastic observation point, with a glass-bottomed Sky Deck for thrill-seekers.

• Taman Tugu – A hidden jungle trail in the middle of the city, perfect for scouts who love nature and hiking.

• National Museum (Muzium Negara) – A great place to learn about Malaysia’s history and culture.

• Go on a Hop-on-hop-off bus to see around Kuala Lumpur city attractions.

• Batu Caves – A Hindu temple complex built inside a massive limestone cave, offering adventure and cultural learning. Scouts can climb 272 colorful steps to the main cave.

• Perdana Botanical Garden and parks around the area - Bird Park, Butterfly Park, Deer Park, Hibiscus Park, Planetarium, Police Museum, Islamic Arts Museum and many more.

Suitable Accommodation for Scouts

Finding budget-friendly and scout-friendly accommodation in Kuala Lumpur is important for a successful trip. Here are some recommended places:

Scout-Specific Accommodations

• BP House (Baden-Powell House)

A scout hostel run by the Scouts Association of Malaysia at their headquarters, offering dormitory-style rooms at affordable rates. Located near the city center, making it convenient for travel. Merdeka 118 is just a walking distance away. Scout shop is also located at this premises. 

Budget-Friendly Hostels & Lodges

• YMCA Kuala Lumpur (Brickfields)

A budget-friendly option close to the WSB office. Provides affordable rooms, meeting spaces, and sports facilities. Room rates are here.

• IYC Kuala Lumpur (Cheras) 

The International Youth Center (IYC) is an agency under the Malaysian Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS). IYC acts as an institution that leads and becomes a focal point in the youth internationalization agenda, manages facilities and facilities, and becomes a hub for international youth NGOs.

Offers accommodation types from Family Apartments to 12-bedded dormitories. More info here.

Campsites Near Kuala Lumpur

For scouts looking for an outdoor experience, camping is a great option. KLScouts collaborates with Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) to use their facilities, especially camping. It is less than 30 minutes drive from Kuala Lumpur. Please visit their websites for more info about their campsites, here.

Getting Around Kuala Lumpur

• KL has an excellent public transport system, making it easy for scout tourists to move around:

• MRT & LRT Trains – Affordable and efficient for traveling across the city.

• Monorail – A great way to explore central KL, including areas like Bukit Bintang and Chow Kit.

• GoKL Buses – A city bus service covering major tourist attractions.

Conclusion

Kuala Lumpur is a fantastic destination for scout tourists, offering a mix of modern marvels, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Whether visiting the World Scout Bureau, marveling at Merdeka 118, or staying at scout-friendly lodgings, there’s something for every scout to explore. With its friendly locals, efficient transportation, and a variety of attractions, KL promises an unforgettable adventure for scouts from around the world.