The historical core of Kuala Lumpur, known as Downtown KL, has faced challenges in recent years, experiencing a hollowing-out effect as essential functions migrated to other areas, leading to population loss, building decay, and safety concerns. Despite these obstacles, Downtown KL, rich in culture and heritage, remains a hub with enormous potential for revitalisation.
Inspired by global best practices in culture-based urban regeneration, Think City partnered with key entities to develop the Kuala Lumpur Creative & Cultural District (KLCCD) Strategic Master Plan in 2019. This plan aims to create an inclusive, authentic, and vibrant creative and cultural centre, weaving together heritage, culture, and innovation to enhance visitor appeal, business prospects, and overall liveability.
KLCCD contributes to the overall development of the city, enhancing its tourism appeal and creating a vibrant atmosphere that enriches the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The initiative symbolises the harmonious blend of the past, present, and future, positioning Kuala Lumpur as a global creative destination that honours its roots while embracing the ever-evolving artistic expressions of today and tomorrow.
Bringing People to the Heart of Kuala Lumpur
Downtown KL has an existing creative and cultural ecosystem that needs to be preserved and boosted
Strategic Master Plan
The Kuala Lumpur Creative and Cultural District (KLCCD) Strategic Master Plan, a collaborative effort between Think City, Jabatan Warisan Negara, and Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur, stands as a comprehensive blueprint. Crafted with the aim of safeguarding Kuala Lumpur’s rich cultural heritage and urban legacy, the plan reflects a commitment to preserving the city’s identity while fostering sustainable development.
Click here to read more about the KLCCD Strategic Master Plan.
KLCCD Key Highlights
10
years of presence in Downtown Kuala Lumpur
5
grants programmes implemented
137
grantees awarded
1:7
Estimated co-investment ratio
355
engagement sessions
10
years of presence in Downtown Kuala Lumpur
137
grantees awarded
355
engagement sessions
5
grants programme implemented
1:7
Estimated co-investment ratio
The Green Connector
The Green Connector Programme, an extension of the KLCCD Strategic Master Plan, is dedicated to enhancing public spaces and establishing a well-connected network of open areas.
In its initial phase, the Green Connector Network Study is undertaken to establish a baseline understanding of microclimate conditions and the vulnerability of open spaces within KLCCD. By implementing nature-based solutions, the programme aims to weave together green spaces, cultural landmarks, and transportation arteries, elevating the urban fabric for improved livability.
6 Strategies to Realise the Kuala Lumpur Creative and Cultural District
1
Enhancing the Creative and Cultural Ecosystem through a precinct-wide museological programme, branding and marketing, capacity building, content creation, space activation, safe city initiatives, collaborations and networks.
2
Improving the State of Conservation of traditional shophouses and iconic heritage civic buildings.
3
Improving the Public Realm focusing on streetscapes, public spaces, greening initiatives, and cooling strategies.
4
Improving Acessibility and Connectivity with a focus on pedestrian amenities, linkages between spaces, and relying less on privately-owned vehicles.
5
Increasing the Population within the City Centre through investments in liveability, repurposing unused office spaces, encouraging shop house activation, attracting new residents, and preserving traditional communities.
6
Developing a Governance Framework and Regulatory Mechanism to improve coordination and curation of cultural content, physical works, branding and marketing.
1
Enhancing the Creative and Cultural Ecosystem through a precinct-wide museological programme, branding and marketing, capacity building, content creation, space activation, safe city initiatives, collaborations and networks.
2
Improving the State of Conservation of traditional shophouses and iconic heritage civic buildings.
3
Improving the Public Realm focusing on streetscapes, public spaces, greening initiatives, and cooling strategies.
4
Improving Acessibility and Connectivity with a focus on pedestrian amenities, linkages between spaces, and relying less on privately-owned vehicles.
5
Increasing the Population within the City Centre through investments in liveability, repurposing unused office spaces, encouraging shop house activation, attracting new residents, and preserving traditional communities.
6
Developing a Governance Framework and Regulatory Mechanism to improve coordination and curation of cultural content, physical works, branding and marketing.
