6 reasons why Mont Kiara has become a sought-after address in Malaysia

A rising star among KL’s suburbs, Mont Kiara offers investors excellent connections to the city, an array of lifestyle perks and a peaceful vibe

Few neighbourhoods in the Malaysian capital combine convenience, contemporary lifestyle amenities and coveted residences quite like Mont Kiara. Although the suburban district is a 20-minute drive from the heart of Kuala Lumpur, it boasts enough distance from the central bustle to retain a bucolic atmosphere that appeals to local urbanites and expats alike. It is, therefore, no surprise that the affluent township features some of the city’s highest property prices. Homeowners, however, get what they pay for —first-rate road and rail connectivity, meticulously planned streetscapes and direct access to nearby Bukit Kiara Park, one of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular green lungs. With limited development land now available, Mont Kiara is poised to become one of the city’s most in-demand addresses for the foreseeable future.

Publika

While 1 Mont Kiara, with its mix of luxury brand outlets, upscale eateries and niche lifestyle stores, remains one of KL’s most fashionable malls, Publika has quickly become the place to be and be seen for the area’s hip weekend coterie. Brimming with some of the neighbourhood’s hottest new restaurants and cafes, as well as designer boutiques, art galleries and several wellness spas, Publika’s piece de resistance is The Square, an al-fresco landscaped piazza that comes to life as the retail outlets shutter and the evening crowd moves in. Other highlights include the celebrated Plan B restaurant on the ground floor, regular live music events and vast MPH bookstore.

Solaris Parq

Connected to Publika via an elevated walkway, this award-winning mixed-use development draws on the township’s tranquil setting to offer residents a resort-themed lifestyle with easy access to KL’s major districts. The two-acre development by UEM Sunrise aims to attract both families and young creatives by combining innovative spaces—such as a meditation cove and mini theatre — and upscale lifestyle amenities with high-end, high-rise residences. Masterminded by the design firm behind Publika, GDP Architects, the two residential towers comprise 576 semi-furnished, one- to three-bedroom suites, ranging from 721 sq ft to 1,423 sq ft. Each comes equipped with branded appliances and sweeping urban vistas, while residents benefit from first-rate facilities. These include an Olympic-length lap pool, rain spa, recreational field and yoga room.

Fat Fish

Catch Fat Fish on the right night and it is easily one of Mont Kiara’s most vibrant dining spots. Specialising in imported Japanese sashimi, freshly shucked oysters and fusion dishes that span global seafood cuisines, this neighbourhood institution is located street-side at Mont Kiara Shoplex. The marketplace concept, which allows diners to select their fresh fish before the experienced chefs work their magic, extends to the interior aesthetics. The blue tiles, whitewashed wood and simple seating keep the focus firmly on the food, while the manager’s trademark welcome tends to hook, line and sinker hungry patrons from the moment they cross the threshold.

The Vault

Better known for its cafe culture and family-friendly lifestyle spots, The Vault is a much-welcome adult addition to the township’s nightlife scene. Potent drinks, prohibition-era decor and some of KL’s top mixologists make this a must for cocktail connoisseurs. True to its speakeasy leanings, the moody haunt is hard to find. The trick? Locate The Prep, a minimalist cafe at ground level, and make for the staircase. Once inside, patrons are rewarded with an intimate setting backed by eclectic tunes ranging from swing-era classics to contemporary house. But the drinks are obviously the stars of the show here. Opt for The Vault Heist, an invigorating lemongrass-infused vodka-based tipple, or the Smokey Negroni (gin, sweet vermouth and Islay whisky rather than the standard Campari) for a no-holds-barred revival of the modern-day favourite.

Inspirasi Mont Kiara

Another upscale condominium development that takes inspiration from Mont Kiara’s tropical backdrop, the MKH Berhad project features 640 units, ranging from 940 sq ft to 1,015 sq ft, set over two 46-storey towers. The conveniently located leasehold property, which is due for completion next year, is a mere five-minute drive to KLCC and benefits from connectivity via some of the city’s major highways. Gleneagles Hospital, Great Eastern Mall and the upcoming International School of Kuala Lumpur are also easily accessed. Onsite facilities, meanwhile, include an infinity pool, outdoor fitness centre, barbecue terrace, green trials and a lounge deck.

Bukit Kiara Park

Bukit Kiara Park is a lush reminder of KL’s rubber plantation roots. One of the city’s largest remaining green spaces, this oasis in the urban jungle is hugely popular with joggers, cyclists, sightseers and serious hikers for its abundance of trails and off-the-beaten-track detours. Expect to encounter macaques, skinks, butterflies, shy yellow-bellied orioles and the occasional tortoise along winding routes that are largely shaded from the sun rays by bamboo canopies. The park is easily accessed from TTDI and Sri Hartamas, both of which make ideal pre- post-excursion pitstops given the limited amenities available within the green lung.

This article originally appeared in Issue No. 161 of PropertyGuru Property Report Magazine