Glowing start: Anwar (third from left) together with (from left) Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh, Nga, Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Fadlun Mak Ujud and Yeoh during the launch of the ‘I Lite U’ project in Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The glitzy Bukit Bintang area here has been elevated further with the installation of more than 70 new illuminated street fixtures, reflecting Malaysia’s diverse identity under the “I Lite U” project.
Spanning almost a kilometre along this iconic stretch, the I Lite U initiative was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday before a massive crowd that lined the street to witness the ceremony.
The Bukit Bintang location for the initiative features four key components – gateway lighting, a Visit Malaysia 2026 sculpture, upgraded pedestrian crossings with brighter and safer lighting as well as newly installed pedestrian crossings with improved illumination to enhance night-time walkability and safety.
Eager onlookers: Costumed visitors posing for a photo during the ‘I Lite U’ launch event in Kuala Lumpur. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
The project also aims to enliven the city’s evening atmosphere through captivating lighting displays, while highlighting the urban landscape using modern, sustainable LED technology, in line with the low-carbon city agenda.
In his speech, Anwar said Malaysians must take pride in the country’s cultural diversity and to always defend it.
“We can see diverse cultures all the way from Perlis to Sabah and Sarawak.
“We are proud Malaysians. This refers to the Malays, Chinese, Indians, Sarawakians and Sabahans,” said the Prime Minister, who also attributed Malaysia’s success in the tourism sector to the racial harmony in the country.
Academy Award-winning Malaysian actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh said it was an honour to be present at the launch of I Lite U as Malaysia prepares to welcome the world for Visit Malaysia 2026.
“When I was asked to take part in this ceremony, I thought of the lights on a film set – lights that reveal depth, colour and the emotion of a story about to unfold.
“Now, let us see the city as our set and the world as our audience,” said the UN Goodwill Ambassador for Road Safety and Sustainable Development Goals.
She also urged Malaysians to show the true meaning of Malaysian hospitality to future guests from near and far.
“Our arms, hearts and shining country are open to welcoming you.
“May the light we switch on, shine brightly in the hearts of all who see it,” she said.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the I Lite U initiative goes beyond aesthetics and city branding as there are tangible public benefits.
“This modern lighting infrastructure is not only about enhancing Kuala Lumpur’s nightscape; it will also improve pedestrian safety and comfort, and energise local economic activity,” Nga said.
Bukit Bintang was selected as the pilot location for I Lite U, given its role as a key tourism and commercial district in Kuala Lumpur.
It is also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) as it supports efforts to build safer, inclusive and sustainable cities, while improving access to key tourism areas at night.
The launch yesterday was further enlivened by a series of activities, including a parade and multiple cultural performances, with 20 contingents involving multiple government departments, agencies and schools.
I Lite U is jointly led by Housing and Local Government Ministry, Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, Federal Territories Ministry and the Kuala Lumpur City Hall.
The I Lite U model is also targeted for expansion to other cities including Ipoh, George Town, Melaka and Johor Baru to foster a more welcoming, safer and globally competitive urban environment.
