Have you ever wanted to feel like a giant explorer walking around in a shrunken world? Well, now you can! As Malaysians continue to rediscover the hidden gems of the country, there is one place that you should add to your list and that is MinNature Malaysia.
MinNature Malaysia is a miniature cultural heritage gallery that showcases the culture and heritage of Malaysia through a miniature wonderland. Think miniaturised iconic and heritage buildings and other mini replicas of tourist attractions spread across a 13,000 sq ft exhibition area.
We think this is the perfect place to soak in the culture and beautiful attractions of Malaysia during the upcoming Merdeka weekend!
Credit: MinNature Malaysia
The person behind this amazing concept is Alvin Wan Cheng Huat who actually began working on his dream to create a miniature exhibition back in 2008. Years later and a whole lot of 3D printing and modeling from scratch, he turned his dream into a reality when MinNature Malaysia was open to the public at Summit USJ shopping in Subang Jaya in 2016.
P.S. Check out these 6 other things to do in KL during the Merdeka long weekend!
But this year, the gallery found itself a new home at Level 1 of the JUMPA annex of Sungei Wang Plaza at Bukit Bintang.
Walk into the exhibition and you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of beautifully crafted dioramas created based on themes like Malaysian cuisine, everyday life of the locals and an aerial view of iconic architectures in the country.
These are categorised under sections called Taste of Malaysia, Minis in the Glass Wall, Heritage Architecture and Buildings of Malaysia, for example. But there are more sections to explore on the site itself!
Stories of Everyday Life
Credit: MinNature Malaysia
The beauty of these displays is that each portrays a mini story of its own, much like a scene taken right out from real life. For example, you’ll get glimpse of the ‘kampung’ (village) life, like villagers playing a game of ‘tarik upih’ (palm frond sledding).
P.S. Heading out with your kids this long weekend? Check out these 8 halal cafes in KL with kids' play areas!
Credit: MinNature Malaysia
Another attraction is miniaturised iconic landmarks like the Sultan Abdul Samad building which proudly shows off the Malaysian flag on the historic field, with the Royal Selangor Club beside it.
Credit: MinNature Malaysia
Malaysians are extremely proud of the local delights and exotic fruits like durian and rambutan! You’ll know durian season is in when stalls pop up on the roadside, baskets filled with durian just like this diorama above.
Many other installations that are magically created are towns and cities of Genting Highlands, Ipoh, Alor Setar and more. Go check out this hidden gem and don’t forget to bring along your camera!
How to Get There
Situated in the centre of Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur, the Sungei Wang Plaza is easily accessible via:
- MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) from the Bukit Bintang station
- Monorail – get off at Imbi or Bukit Bintang Station
- Hop On Hop Off bus – stop at Sungei Wang Plaza Stop
- Car - the shopping mall provides ample parking space
Opening hours: Daily (including weekends and holidays); 10AM-6PM (last entry 5.30PM)
Price: RM10 (children below 4 enter for free)
Contact: +61 1110099374
P.S. Planning a last-minute staycation? Check out these 8 kid-friendly hotels in KL and beyond!