Istana Budaya in KL to close for two years for repairs, starting Jan 15

Istana Budaya in Kuala Lumpur will be closed for two years, starting Jan 15, to facilitate maintenance and upgrading work. Photo: The Star/Azman Ghani

Istana Budaya, a national arts and culture institution in Kuala Lumpur, will be closed for two years, starting Jan 15.

Zubaidah Mukhtar, Istana Budaya director-general, said the closure of the venue - which houses an international-level theatre space - is to facilitate enhancements and maintenance works, especially repairs on the building’s roof.

"Istana Budaya will not operate for any events or performances until Jan 5, 2026. It is expected to reopen that year in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign,” she said in a statement today.

Zubaidah said during this closure period, Istana Budaya will organise performances such as the Malaysian Traditional Orchestra (MTO), the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO), and Artistana through the Gerak campaign nationwide.

She also said that Istana Budaya remains committed to providing opportunities for local companies as strategic partners and local art enthusiasts to collaborate in organising performances both domestically and abroad.

The public can contact Istana Budaya’s Public Relations Unit at 03-4026 5555 or email to [e-mail] for any enquiries. - Bernama