National Art Gallery Tours and Activities

Visit this national gallery to see some of Malaysia’s most daring contemporary art collections alongside international, traditional and modern art.

Enjoy one of Malaysia’s most interesting contemporary and traditional art collections at theNational Visual Arts Gallery. The collections incorporate installations and multi-media artworks, Asian and international art and crafts and cultural items.

Access the three floors in the gallery via a spiral walkway that goes through the centre of the building.  See an impressive range of experimental and contemporary artworks alongside modern and traditional art, photography, crafts and ceramic arts. 

This modern art venue is one of the most unique in Malaysia. The design of the building and the collection reflects traditional Malay aesthetics with a modern functionality. Established in 1958 with only four artworks in the collection, today you can view over 2,500 artworks. 

Head to the first floor for a permanent collection of Malaysian work. On the second floor, browse the gallery’s temporary and private collections. See the works of notable artists such as Wong Hoi Cheong, painter Zulkifli Mohd Dahlan and batik artist Chuah Than Teng. On the third floor, see the daring work of young and emerging Asian artists. 

The gallery fosters a local and international artistic community. Join a workshop or attend a discussion panel promoting the appreciation of art in younger audiences. If you have any questions about the works, the attendants and curators are happy to share information.

After seeing the collections, rest in the café, browse through the retail store or settle into the research room and learn more about the works and artists. Next to the gallery is the National Theatre, where you can see local and international performances of music, theatre and opera. After a day at the gallery, stroll to the beautiful Titiwangsa Lake Gardens to taste the food prepared at street stalls. 

The National Visual Arts Gallery is located on Jalan Temerloh. It is open daily and admission is free. The easiest way to get there is by a taxi from the Titiwangsa metro station and then make the short walk to the gallery.