The Federal Kuala Lumpur—An historic hotel in the center of it all!

[Nicholas Snow]

By Nicholas Snow

 

LIVING HISTORY

 

Not surprisingly, one of the very first hotels one will discover in researching a place to stay in Malaysia is The Federal Kuala Lumpur, high on the radar not only because of its prime location in the heart of Bukit Bintang (the central business and shopping district), but also because of its place in history as “modern Malaysia’s first international-class hotel.”

 

In fact, Dato Seri Abdullah Hajmi Ahmad Badawi, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, said on the occasion of the hotel’s 50^th anniversary, “For many older Malaysians, The Federal is more than just a hotel. Officiated by our first Prime Minister of Malaysia, the late Y.T.M. Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, on 28 August 1957, The Federal Kuala Lumpur housed many guests and dignitaries from abroad to witness the historic moment of our country independence three days later.”

 

The Prime Minister continued, “Since then, The Federal has borne witness to the dizzying changes that have transformed Malaysia’s capital into the bustling and cosmopolitan metropolis of today. Built 50 years ago by the late Tan Sri Dato’ Low Yat, The Federal was part of the nucleus around which the Bukit Bintang area has blossomed, to the point where it is now one of the central focal points for tourists, local and international alike.”

 

The Prime Minister concluded, “In my eyes, The Federal remains an icon, not just because of its history, but also its ability to maintain standards and to provide quality service to its customers. Its commitment in preserving our local culinary dishes, which is an important part of our rich culture and heritage, has distinguished the hotel…”

 

CULINARY DELIGHTS

 

You don’t have to be staying at The Federal to enjoy their fantastic restaurants, most notably the Mandarin Palace, recipient of multiple “Best Restaurant” awards and numerous other honors. The Mandarin Palace is “renowned for its Hong King dim sum, Cantonese, Hunanese and Szechuan cuisines served in settings reminiscent of the grandeur of an imperial court, surrounded by detailed wood-carved picture panels depicting classical tables."

 

 

Dim Sum

 

Dim sum may be ordered from carts but I asked my server to surprise me. Delicious!

 

For a scenic view and more delicious fine dining, check out the Bintang Revolving Restaurant on the 18^th floor (but make a reservation). The lighting is quite romantic so I therefore can’t bring you photos of my exquisite four-course meal (too dark for pictures). The restaurant is open for dinner but I suggest an early seating so you can enjoy the view when it is still daylight in contrast to the stunning nighttime panorama.

 

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

 

I had never been to Kuala Lumpur before and was delighted to discover just how “in the center of everything” The Federal is. Usually when travelling I like to be nearby mass transit (and the hotel is a simple five-minute walk from the KL Monorail), but at The Federal, if shopping, entertainment and nightlife are on the agenda, you can walk to all of it. I was relieved to go to the monorail, buy a ticket, and ride it—it gave me a sense of independence as a first-timer in Malaysia.

 

Within walking distance of The Federal you’ll find bbpark, an open-air bazaar with excellent shopping and dining options; Plaza Low Yat, KL’s specialty center and “”IT lifestyle mall.” Also nearby is the famed Jalan Alor street food haven and the ultra modern Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, “1.37 mil sq ft retail haven with 450 outlets offering the finest fashion and home furnishing to entertainment and culinary delights. Let the endless appeal of Malaysia's premier shopping destination awaken your senses the moment you arrive at its doorstep.”

 

MY ADVICE

 

When booking your stay at The Federal, I recommend that you compare their official online rates with those offered by Agoda. In addition, request an upper floor on the side of the hotel opposite bbpark, because even with double-pane windows you can hear the party well into the early-morning hours. For night owls who plan on being up late, any room in the hotel would be suitable.

 

WISH LIST

 

Federal Hotels International has other hotels to delight you, one in Sydney (The Grace) and another in Kuala Lumpur about a block from The Federal, Hotel Capitol. On my next trip I hope to try out one of Hotel Capitol’s 10 Rooms (visit the web site, as seeing is believing).

 

ONLINE RESOURCES

 

www.fhihotels.com

The Federal on Agoda

10 Rooms