Unlike Hollywood, Malaysia doesn’t have the drama and the paparazzi to keep the locals abuzz. When Siti Nurhaliza and Datuk K got married and the wedding was telecasted over national TV, it was the most drama they had in the past 10 years. That’s probably because Mawi was on the other channel at the exact same time. Talk about fighting for ratings.

Even so, Malaysia has its fair share of entertainment non-Hollywood style. The performing arts was recently (or should I say “FINALLY”) recognized as something of importance. With the full support of the Malaysian government and the corresponding bodies, the performing arts scene in Malaysia (particularly in Kuala Lumpur) is booming.

The Actors Studio has always been an avid supporter of the arts and has since put on many memorable shows. With one stage located in Bangsar and another in Penang, the local arts scene is buzzing with many divine comedies, toe-tapping musicals and heart breaking dramas. It is no West End but a dose of local comedy might be what you need during your trip here.

KLPAC (Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre) was Kuala Lumpur’s answer to promoting the arts scene but unfortunately, it doesn’t really seem to be working. The venue was designed for big things but Kuala Lumpur isn’t exactly the prime location for big international shows. Another perfect venue would be Istana Budaya but it is suffering the same fate as KLPAC. In any case, there are shows being showcased at these venues but it is few and far between so do check out the schedule. You might just be pleasantly surprised by a showing of “My Fair Lady” or “The Sound Of Music”.

Malaysia’s nightlife is also thriving. If you think Citibank never sleeps, wait till you experience Kuala Lumpur’s nightlife. There’s always something to do at any time of the day. You can start off your day by doing the shopping and the sight seeing. The night is reserved for night clubs and food. Take a walk around the Golden Triangle and you’re bound to stumble upon a worthy night club or pub. If food is your calling, Kuala Lumpur is your heaven. The best part is there’s always something 24 hours a day.  

There are other forms of entertainment in Malaysia. Amongst one of the popular activities is karaoke, a very Asian activity. The city is full of karaoke bars but do be careful, some of these establishments are pretty dodgy and what happens behind those doors is very ‘hush hush’. Its always safer to just find a Red Box karaoke joint and there’s usually one at every busy street corner.

Cinemas (or should I say cineplexes) are also abundant in all the cities. The more prominent Cineplex would be Golden Screen Cinemas which has pretty much the latest in technology (by Malaysian standards of course) for your viewing pleasure. Most of the latest movies will be played at the local screens but do remember that Malaysia is pretty much a conservative country so there’s bound to be a lot of cutting here and there. Other cineplexes to look out for would be Cathay Cineleisure and Tanjong Golden Village.

For those with the motto “Music Is My Life”, Kuala Lumpur might not be the place for you. There are a couple of jazz bars that deserve mention such as Alexis or Cotton Club but essentially, the locals aren’t really interested in live music which would explain the shortage.

There’s so many things to do in Malaysia at any time of the day. With so many different cultures coming into play, it is a bevy of entertainment and there’s always something for everyone. If you can conquer them all, you’ll be able to truly experience Malaysian lifestyle.