The city streets of Kuala Lumpur provide a great location for business events, although, as Big Stick Adventures’ director Brett Hollis points out, “there can be traffic challenges if you want to move from one pocket of Kuala Lumpur to the other. But for an ‘amazing race’ type of activity, the city is ideal and the Malaysian people are very open to creative ideas.”

Asian Overland Services (AOS) recently hosted 15 educational delegates from Australia, who took part in a treasure hunt as part of their stay. Guests ventured into the city using local transport, where the game involved visiting local areas and trying their hand at various activities. This included ‘pulling’ teh tarik – the local tea – at Yusoof & Zakhir Restaurant, batik painting in the Central Market, and hand garland weaving in Sri Mahamariamman Temple.

NIGHT MARKETS
Big Stick’s Hollis recommends a wander through the night markets in Chinatown for groups who are not too weary from the day’s activities. “You don’t just get an Asian experience here, but a truly Malaysian one.”

The market consists of a cluster of makeshift shops selling a range of bargains, and heritage buildings like the Old High Street Police Station, as well as the hawker stalls which are located along Petaling Street.

ALC’s Haslett recommends City Golf (www.citygolf.com.my), which can cater for up to 120 guests of varying skill levels. Golf simulators give budding pros the chance to practise their swing, while the bar and lounge is equipped for presentations. The outdoor terrace can also cater for drinks or dinner.

COSY SETTING
For groups wanting a cosy setting, AOS congress manager Selva Durai points to Bijan Restaurant (www.bijanrestaurant.com) “This venue always comes to mind first when suggesting an off-site dining venue as it really reflects our Malay cuisine, in a modern setting with friendly service.” The restaurant can be exclusively hired for up to 180 guests.

Menara Kuala Lumpur (www.menarakl.com.my) or KL Tower, is an impressive setting for groups, according to KL Yuen, managing director at ICEM, who has organised events on both the main deck and private function level.

The Mega View banqueting deck has capacity for up to 450 people, while the amphitheatre, suitable for product launches and exhibitions, can seat 250 theatre style.

GROUP OPTION
Yuen is also impressed with Saloma Theatre Restaurant’s (www.saloma.com.my) ability to cater for groups. The main restaurant has capacity for up to 350 seated, and serves Malay and international cuisine. The room is fully equipped with audiovisual and lighting equipment, and cultural entertainment can also be organised.

On a private hilltop on the city’s outskirts, Tamarind Hill (www.tamarindrestaurants.com) offers a rural setting overlooking the city skyscrapers. ALC’s Haslett took his company here for a pre-Christmas event and was impressed with its setting and service. The venue can cater for up to 100 people.