A DAY TO REMEMBER: 24 HOURS IN SHAH ALAM
Only 24 hours in Shah Alam and you have no idea what to do or where to go? Relax, we have got you covered. From a hearty breakfast that fuels you for the adventure to endless thrills in the city, this guide ensures your trip to Shah Alam is unforgettable and packed with surprises that truly reflect Selangor.
Breakfast like a local
Before diving into the endless excitement in Shah Alam, head to a local breakfast spot to kickstart your day. Warong Tiga Lima in Section 10 is a neighbourhood favourite, renowned for its diverse range of authentic Malay cuisine that awakens your senses. Their menu features top-notch options such as Kacang Pol with toasted bread, Lontong Kering, Lempeng Kelapa Parut and many more. It opens daily except on Monday, from 8:00 am until 12:00 pm and additionally, in the evening from 5:00 pm until 10:00 pm on the weekend (Friday-Sunday).
Another place that is worth checking out is Sorai Malaysia at Padang Jawa. They serve timeless dishes such as Toast with Half-boiled eggs, Boiled Cassava with Coconut and Punten, a dish you can rarely find. This place opens daily from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm, except on Friday.
However, if you’re into a kopitiam-style breakfast, then Kedai Kopi Maneh at Section 13 is your spot. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted with the aroma of a fresh cup of coffee, with Soy Sauce Wantan Noodles, and Toast with Butter and Kaya to complement the taste.
Warong Tiga Lima (Source: Warong Tiga Lima)
Toasted Bread with half-boiled eggs (Source: Sorai.Malaysia)
Endless thrills (10:00 am-1:00 pm)
No trip to Shah Alam is complete without experiencing its thrills, culture and hidden gems. Whether you are an adventure seeker or simply looking for peace of mind, Shah Alam has it all for everyone. Begin your journey with a visit to Sultan Alam Shah Museum, where you can gain new knowledge. Newly reopened, this museum displays three exhibitions, focusing on the history, culture and nature of Selangor. Visitors can also explore a replica of a stone cave in the nature exhibition, or see one of the main attractions of the museum, the replica of “Buaya Puchong”. Families with kids will also love the kids’ section, where children can enjoy crafting and other interactive activities such as “Taxidermy for fun” or play some traditional folk games. They also display collections outside of the museum, for instance, like the Tanah Melayu’s old train carriage.
In addition to that, there’s another place nearby, known as the Wet World Water Park Shah Alam. With affordable prices ranging from RM38 to RM39, visitors can enjoy rides such as Super Hurricane Water Slide, Pirate Challenge and more. This place opens daily except on Wednesdays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, so plan accordingly if you want to come and visit! If you prefer a quiet place, step into Raja Tun Uda Library, a haven for book lovers. Beyond its vast collection of books, the library is equipped with excellent facilities, including large spaces to study, Mac and Windows computer services and an exciting 6D theatre. For adventure lovers, check out Race Karting I-city to pump up your adrenaline behind the wheel of a go-kart. Nearby the place, there is also a wax museum called Red Carpet 2 that is worth checking out, featuring lifelike wax figures of celebrities and politicians.
Raja Tun Uda Library, Section 13
Wet World Shah Alam, Section 14
Red Carpet 2 @ I-city (Source: Foodveler)
Sultan Alam Shah Museum, Section 14
Delicious breaks between adventures (2:00-4:00 pm)
After hours of thrilling adventure, unwind with some retail therapy across Shah Alam’s shopping haven. Begin at Setia City Mall, the largest mall in Shah Alam, which is a shopping paradise for shopaholics. With its special layout, landscaped outdoor park and lively community events, this mall goes beyond just a shopping centre. If you’re looking for a more entertaining choice, Central I-city offers a wonderful shopping experience with a variety of fun options. Visitors can find things like fashion items from local to foreign brands, arcade games, a trendy photobooth spot, and plenty of other attractions. It is a place with a vibrant mix of leisure and fun, making it a go-to place to seek both retail therapy and entertainment. Moreover, Aeon Mall Shah Alam is another shopping destination, with its modern Japanese-style architecture and aesthetics. It is also known for its wide range of retail outlets, dining options and entertainment such as karaoke and bowling alley, making it a family-friendly destination. While exploring, don’t miss the chance to take a break for lunch, with premium choices ranging from Asian to Western cuisines. For instance, Cafe Chef Wan at Setia City Mall, owned by a prestigious chef in Malaysia. They served exquisite dishes such as Squid-ink Prawn Aglio Olio and the must-try Chef Wan’s Cucur Udang.
Central I-city, Section 7
Setia City Mall, Shah Alam
Evening leisure (5:00 pm-7:00 pm)
After a full day of excitement and thrilling adventure, slow down and indulge in a more relaxing side of Shah Alam. Unwind with a visit to Cake Jalan Tiung at Section 4, a cosy local cafe where you can savour some scrumptious bakes like their Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake or Egg Tarts while enjoying a freshly brewed coffee. Not only that, they also serve light meals such as pasta and sandwiches. For non-coffee lovers, you should try their other beverages, such as Matcha Strawberry.
Once you have refuelled your energy with a good meal, head to the Selangor–Japan Friendship Garden for a serene escape and enjoy the tranquillity. This peaceful haven invites you to wander among the Bonsai trees, stroll through vibrant Torii gates, and unwind in the calming beauty of its Zen Garden. To end the evening, there is also another must-visit garden nearby, known as Shah Alam Lake Garden. Visitors can enjoy activities such as zipping across the lake on a flying fox or renting a paddleboat to admire the stunning view of the lake, as it transforms into a dazzling mirror of warm hues.
Variety of desserts (Source: Cake Jalan Tiung)
Selangor-Japan Friendship Garden, Section 14
Zipline Shah Alam, Section 14
Dinner adventure (9:00 pm)
As the sun sets over Shah Alam, it is time to end your day with a memorable dinner. For those who enjoy a laid-back dinner, The Coffee Dock at Section 8 provides a great ambience, combined with amazing food and dining experience. This place serves Pasta Masak Lemak, Laksa, Curry Mee and more. Not only do you get to eat scrumptious food, but you also get to enjoy the beautiful sight of a nearby lake.
Additionally, Warong Kebun at Section 7 also has a similar care-free setting, offering both delicious meals and Instagram-worthy vibes. On the menu, you will find meals like Char Kway Teow, their latest Masak Lomak Spaghetti, Colek Celup Tepung and many more hearty delights.
However, if you are looking for a whimsical dining experience, head over to Jalan Terusan Cafe at Section U12, a garden-like cafe with soft pink interiors. This Cafe specialised in Western cuisine, for instance, Aglio Olio Grilled Chicken, Spicy Chicken Burger and even Creamy Tom Yam Pasta. In Shah Alam, no day feels complete without a meal that delights both your stomach and your spirit.
Jalan Terusan Cafe (Source: Jalan Terusan Cafe)
Masak Lomak Spaghetti (Source: Warong Kebun)
Staycation
For a restful stay in Shah Alam, guests can unwind in the luxurious ambience of Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites, renowned as the nation’s latest 5-star Syariah-compliant international hotel. This hotel is located in the heart of the capital city, with only a few minutes away from tourist attractions, such as Taman Tasik Shah Alam and Sultan Alam Shah Museum. Other than that, Concorde Hotel Shah Alam is an award-winning 4-star hotel that combines sophistication and comfort. Its strategic location near shopping malls and tourist hotspots makes it perfect for both leisure and business travellers. From here, you can even catch a stunning glimpse of the iconic Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque right from your room. In addition, another option for a great staycation is the Acapella Suite Hotel, nestled in the city of Shah Alam. Take a dip at their outdoor pool with lush landscape or work out at their gym with an advanced system, powered by Technogym.
Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites, Section 14
Concorde Hotel Shah Alam, Section 9
Closing
In just a day, Shah Alam proves itself as more than just a bustling district of Selangor’s capital city. It is a whirlwind of excitement, cultures, flavours and adventures, where every corner offers something new to discover. Your trip may only last for 24 hours, but the memories of Shah Alam stay in your heart forever
Written by: Nur Iman Raihanah
