Cultural performers adorning lit-up outfits dance under the bright night sky. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
As part of the Golden Triangle area in Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang is rarely ever quiet, but last weekend, the energy was a little different than usual.
As night fell, clusters of people slowed their steps and held their phones above them to snap pictures of the newly installed lights along the main street.
The shift was brought on by “I Lite U” – short for Infrastructure, Lighting, Innovation, Technology and Eco-Sustainability Towards Urbanisation – a lighting initiative done in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026. Bukit Bintang was chosen as the pilot site.
Launched officially on Saturday at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, the festival drew large crowds who were excited to experience the shopping and entertainment district in a new light.
As night falls, the lively streets of Bukit Bintang begin to light up. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
In attendance were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who officiated the launch, and Oscar-winning Malaysian actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh.
Once the launch event wrapped up, attention quickly turned back to the streets where a lively parade soon followed, weaving through the streets. Among the 16 contingents showcasing Malaysia’s culture were groups representing Orang Asli, Baba Nyonya and Portuguese Eurasian communities.
Grand fireworks marked the end of the festival, with crowds pouring out over the roads to admire the lights spanning almost a kilometre down the Bukit Bintang stretch – including the main Visit Malaysia 2026 arch at the start of the street.
Visitors wandered through the area leisurely, following the lights and sounds of the city. Some paused for photos, some sat on sidewalks with their eyes fixed above and smiles on their faces, while others simply looked on.
The city no doubt felt livelier, easier to navigate at night and more comfortable to stay in.
The Portuguese community showcases their culture during the festival parade. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
Glowing eyes and smiles
The effect of the light fixtures can best be seen in the people moving through them. For Imran Fauzi, 23, who travelled all the way from Kajang, Selangor to experience the festivities with his partner, the difference immediately stood out.
“You can really feel how different KL is tonight,” he said, gesturing towards the crowd and glowing streets.
“All the lights, the sounds and the festive energy from this event – this is the liveliest I’ve seen this city.”
Imran also mentioned how dim the city can sometimes be.
“By doing this, it really brightens up the city and brings more energy here. I look forward to dropping by a lot more because of how pretty it looks now.”
A short walk away, three Indonesian students were gathered together, snapping selfies.
Imran and his partner, Nuris Idris, look forward to visiting the city more now that it’s prettier and brighter at night.
For Helmy Sungkunan and Sorcha Griselda, both 21 years old and studying in Malaysia, the scene felt like a new city they thought they were already familiar with.
“This is definitely our first time seeing KL this cheerful,” said Helmy.
“I never thought the nightlife in this city could be even more lively. It’s on another level now, especially with all these lights.”
Sorcha agreed, adding that while KL often shines during major festive seasons, this felt different.
“I thought the prettiest I’ve seen KL was during Christmas, but this has topped my expectations of what this city can offer,” she said.
Their friend, Reiva Isfianto, is visiting Malaysia for the second time – and she’s already looking forward to coming back again to experience more of the city.
Visiting Malaysia for the first time, Kanbasha (left) and his son Anopa were impressed by the atmosphere of the event.
Meanwhile, a father-son duo from Zimbabwe wore bright smiles on their faces the moment they saw the lights.
The pair eagerly took turns being photographed by the other under the golden glow.
“All the lights are very beautiful and elegant,” remarked 47-year-old Evans Kanbasha.
“It feels like daytime with how bright it is. I’m here asking myself, ‘What time do these people go to bed?’ This really is the city that never sleeps,” he added.
Visiting Malaysia for the first time, the pair had already been to Putrajaya and Melaka before arriving in the city.
“Beautiful scenery, beautiful lighting and very charming people. Everyone is very accommodating and welcoming. We’ve travelled to a few countries and nothing compares to Malaysia,” he added.
Anopa, his son, shares the same sentiment as his father.
“I really love it, especially all the lights,” the 14-year-old said.
“When we arrived here, I thought we were in New York City for a second!”
As the night drew on, throngs of people continued to walk the illuminated streets and paused to take it all in.
Beneath glowing arches and colourfully-lit roads, Bukit Bintang was once again inviting locals and tourists alike to linger and appreciate the beauty of the city.
