Motifs of jasmine flowers floating over traditional Malay songket patterns now adorn pillars under Jambatan Simpang Lima in Klang, Selangor, turning a daily commuter route into an open-air artistic space.
The artworks at the Simpang Lima roundabout was commissioned to beautify the protocol route in conjunction with the silver jubilee of the reign of Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who ascended the throne as the ninth Sultan of Selangor on Nov 22, 2001.
Klang mayor Datuk Abd Hamid Hussain said the RM85,000 beautification works reflected harmony between nature and royal heritage.
“Murals of jasmine (Klang city’s official flower) with songket patterns have breathed new life into the urban landscape.”
The roundabout connects directly to Jalan Istana, the ceremonial route used by royalty, foreign envoys and dignitaries travelling to and from Istana Alam Shah.
“Jasmine was chosen as it symbolises purity, grace and deep-rooted heritage within the Malay culture.
“The pristine white blooms unfurl against a rich backdrop of woven songket, creating a seamless visual harmony with the royal palace’s dignified environment,” he said.
Abd Hamid said the initiative was part of a broader project by Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) Landscape Department, which included adding soft landscaping to dilapidated pre-war buildings along Jalan Raya Barat and clearing an old wooden house near the roundabout to brighten the area.
“We want to introduce botanical artistry to the concrete supports of the roadway’s infrastructure to soften the edge of modern development and replace grey utility with local flora.”
MBDK curator Faisal Surani welcomed the transformation, noting that the artwork fostered civic pride.
“The jasmine motif serves as a subtle yet powerful nod to Malay tradition, bridging Klang’s past with contemporary urban renewal efforts,” Faisal said.
“Simpang Lima and Jalan Istana are no longer just pathways.
“Through the painted jasmine’s timeless elegance, the thoroughfare has blossomed into a spot worth pausing to admire.”
