Every month, the Going Places team handpicks the best experiences across Malaysia
1. Penang: Best of Japan
Say konnichiwa to one of Penang’s most vibrant cultural celebrations. On 19 July, the Penang Bon Odori Festival (pictured above) brings the best of Japan right to our shores. Soak in the festivity with a lively mix of traditional Bon Odori dances, Japanese music and a mouth-watering spread of authentic eats, from piping-hot takoyaki to fresh sushi.
More than just a fun day out, this annual celebration is a nod to the long-standing friendship between Malaysia and Japan. Come for the culture, stay for the vibes!
2. Pahang: 30 years of hits
On 5 and 6 July, Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza is set to light up the Arena of Stars, Genting Highlands with her much-anticipated Violet Skies concert, a dazzling celebration of 30 years in the spotlight. Get ready for goosebumps, waves of nostalgia and pure vocal magic as Malaysia’s beloved icon takes fans on an unforgettable journey through her greatest hits.
3. Kuala Lumpur: Art in the city
The Urban Museum – or UR-MU for short – is redefining what a city museum can be. Located on Jalan Bedara, one of Bukit Bintang’s last residential enclaves, this hidden gem opened in May 2022, and is the brainchild of an award-winning architect and a lifelong art enthusiast.
UR-MU is housed in a restored 1950s modernist walk-up which was once a block of eight two-bedroom apartments. While the soul of its original layout remains, sleek updates like a minimalist lobby, rooftop garden and modern amenities breathe new life into the space.
Inside, over 100 curated works showcase bold artistic voices from Malaysia and the region. Wander through immersive zones like Sens-Asia, Power Play, Raksasa (Monsters), Framing Modernity, Superheroes and Made’s Garden.
Planning a visit? It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 7pm. Pre-booking is recommended.
4. Kuala Lumpur: Two French-inspired high teas
Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur has teamed up with dessert maestro Texture Pâtisserie to present a multi-sensory tasting experience like no other. Ditch the dainty tiers; inspired by the art of unfolding, this decadent feast that’s plated á la minute invites you to savour each bite at your own pace. The set is available daily from 3pm to 5pm at Horizon Grill, Level 58 until 31 July.
Over at Crowne Plaza Kuala Lumpur City Centre, afternoon tea blooms into a dreamy affair at Le Midi on Level 32, the hotel’s award-winning French brasserie. The Garden Allure tea set is as pretty as it is delicious, featuring 11 petite creations, from finger sandwiches to dreamy desserts, served in an Insta-worthy verrine glass jar. Available Tuesday to Sunday, from 3pm to 6pm.
5. Kuala Lumpur: Down memory lane
Twice a month at Casa Lim in Bukit Damansara, creative consultant Joanne Lim hosts Table For: an intimate dining experience for just 2 to 10 guests. Embark on a soulful journey through Melaka Peranakan cuisine, lovingly preserved by Lim’s great-grandmother, and savour classics like achar, assam prawns, emperor chicken, Nyonya Hokkien noodles and a surprise dessert.
6. Sarawak: A day to remember
Sarawak Day, celebrated on 22 July, commemorates the state’s move towards self-governance in 1963. And this year, all eyes are on Miri as it plays host to the festivities. Get ready for an electrifying line-up of cultural showcases and performances by homegrown talents.
7. Kuala Lumpur: A taste of Paris
In the buzzing heart of Chow Kit, Restaurant Dominic transports you to the charm of a Parisian arrondissement. With vibrant Bleu de France hues, alfresco corners and striking contemporary art, it captures the essence of a stylish French bistro.
Helmed by head chef Phillip Dominic, this Michelin-listed space is a love letter to his Marseille roots. Expect timeless French dishes with personal touches, down to hand-sewn tablecloths lovingly crafted by his mother.
After honing his craft across Europe, from Verona to Salzburg, Dominic adds modern twists to French classic fare, using only the finest European ingredients. Highlights include foie gras terrine, Burgundy snails, wagyu steak tartare, duck confit and seafood ravioli. Be sure to save room for show-stopping desserts like pistachio soufflé and chocolate mousse.
8. Malaysia: Off to the races
Love that runner’s high? You’re in luck – this month’s race calendar is packed! Lace up and check out these upcoming marathons hitting the streets (and trails) near you.
Kar Ultra@Kadamaian Ultra. Happening on 26 and 27 July, this ultra-marathon in Kadamaian, Sabah, unfolds with Mount Kinabalu as its stunning backdrop.
Score Marathon by AIA Vitality. One of Malaysia’s biggest running events, this inclusive marathon takes place in Putrajaya on 13 July and offers race distances for all levels.
Kuching Half Marathon 2025. On 27 July, explore Kuching’s charm on foot as the scenic half marathon winds through the city’s iconic landmarks.
9. Kuala Lumpur: Prepare for battle
Get ready for the ultimate escape room thrill. Bomb Battle at Berjaya Times Square takes adrenaline to the next level. Suit up in hazmat gear and get ready for 75 minutes of non-stop action: dodging lasers, cracking cryptic codes and racing against the clock to defuse paint bombs in this high-stakes immersive experience.
10. Kuala Lumpur: Lights, camera, action!
Siti Saleha, one of Malaysia’s brightest cinema stars, shines as an ambassador for the eighth Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest), joining fellow ambassadors Bront Palarae and Daiyan Trisha. Running from 19–27 July, the festival kicks off with an opening ceremony at MyTown Shopping Centre. Siti Saleha chats with us about her role in the festival and the state of Malaysian cinema today.
Why join MIFFest?
I’ve always admired how MIFFest provides a global platform for Malaysian cinema. Joining Bront and Daiyan feels like the perfect opportunity to support its mission of celebrating storytelling and championing Southeast Asian voices.
What does this role mean to you?
Honestly, it’s such an honour. As someone who grew up in this industry, I’m proud to represent a platform that uplifts storytellers from all walks of life. It’s my way of giving back; this role lets me engage with filmmakers and audiences, and hopefully inspire more young creatives to believe in the magic of film.
How has Malaysian cinema evolved?
It has grown both in quality and depth, boldly exploring complex themes, diverse genres and cross-cultural collaborations. We’re not just following global trends; we’re starting to set them.
What’s next for you?
I’m working on my directorial debut, a new series and exploring business ventures. It’s an exciting chapter, and I’ll share more soon!
11. Pahang: The perfect weekend escape
Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur or 20 minutes from Kuantan Airport lies a dreamy eco-retreat that’s redefining luxury in the wild: Mangala Estate Boutique Resort, the ultimate weekend hideaway that feels worlds away.
Once a barren expanse, the 70-acre sanctuary now flourishes with swaying palms, serene lakes and vibrant flora. Mangala lives up to its name (Sanskrit for “auspicious”), thriving through its respect for the land with its zero deforestation policies, solar power and smart water irrigation systems. Suffice to say, it truly walks the talk when it comes to eco-conscious living.
Choose from 67 villas that seamlessly blend contemporary design with nature’s raw beauty. Overlooking scenic wetlands, the Sara Villas are perfect for nature lovers while the Jala Villas offer elegant, stilted stays by the lake. Vana Villas come with private pools for a secluded dip and Amani Villas, set among fruit orchards, feature plunge pools and patios for laid-back vibes.
Families can opt for spacious two-bedroom Jala or Vana Pool Villas while the crown jewel – a sustainably built, two-storey, six-bedroom Bungalow – is ideal for group getaways.
The resort has you covered with the perfect balance of chill and thrill – from birdwatching and nature walks to kayaking, volleyball, pétanque and even friendly matches of table tennis or classic board games like congkak. Unwind at the Mangala Spa with a blissful menu of massages, facials, detox baths and body wraps.
12. Kuala Lumpur: Return of the king
After an eight-year hiatus, G-Dragon returns with his solo world tour, Übermensch, which kicked off in March. He’s now set to take over Axiata Arena on 19 and 20 July. Dubbed the “King of K pop”, the BigBang frontman helped shape the global wave with his bold style and genre-defying sound. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the hype, this is one show you won’t want to miss.
13. Kuala Lumpur: Get ready to boogie
On 18 July, Marini’s on 57 is throwing it back with a night dedicated to hits from the 70s and 80s; think pure nostalgia and boogie-worthy vibes. This popular Studio 57-themed party happens once a month, with the Petronas Twin Towers as a sparkly backdrop. Meanwhile, here’s where you can get your nostalgic fix in Malaysia all-year-round.
Groove The Disco
Featuring music from the 70s, 80s and 90s, this Desa Sri Hartamas hotspot features DJs who keep the dance floor alive.
The Retro Club KL
True to its name, this club is dedicated to groovy music lovers with themed nights featuring reggae, rap and retro beats.
Betelnut
Located in Petaling Jaya, this neighbourhood bar spins old-school remixes that whisk you straight back to the 80s and 90s era.
