Imagine shabby rundown buildings hiding echoes of a well-maintained heritage. That is Klang. This royal city holds echoes of its past. It is one of Malaysia’s oldest cities. Klang boasts a royal palace a mosque and well-preserved heritage sites. These sites are associated with the original Selangor Sultanate.
Klang owes its growth to commerce. The Klang Valley is rich in tin. This led to the Klang War or Selangor Civil War of 1867–1874. The British stepped in at that time. Klang became the center for colonial administration. Later, it moved to Kuala Lumpur.
Let’s explore Istana Alam Shah. It is the Royal palace. Klang was the former Royal capital of Selangor. Istana Alam Shah is one of the official palaces of the Sultan of Selangor. It was built in 1960. Now it is used for royal investitures and ceremonies. It is open at random times for tours. We can enjoy the view from outside. Other opulent private buildings can be seen.
Let’s proceed to The Galeri Diraja Sultan Abdul Aziz. It was initially constructed as Sultan Sulaeman Building. British architect AB Hubback designed it in 1909. The British used it as administrative offices. The occupying Japanese used it as a war HQ later. Today, it is a notable museum. It highlights the rich heritage of the Selangor Sultanate. It contains artifacts and replicas of the Selangor crown jewels.
A short walk westward takes us to Little India. It is Malaysia’s largest Indian community. Strangely, it grew out of a Chinese community enclave. In addition to the lively persona of all Indian communities, the most notable landmark is the Indian Muslim Tengku Kelana Mosque. It dominates the street scene. From a small wooden structure, the mosque has undergone transformations. It adapted to the growing numbers of the Indian Muslim community.
Now we stumble across the Jambatan Kota or Kota Bridge. This double-decker bridge was the first in Asia. It opened in 1957. The top layer was for vehicles. The lower was for bicycles and pedestrians. The top deck is no longer used. The lower level is still populated. Motorbikes bicycles and pedestrians use it. This industrial latticework of metal girders is interesting. It provides a good view of the sluggish green river. It reminds you that you’re in the tropics. You can see Masjid Bandar Diraja. It is Klang’s Royal Town Mosque.
The Royal Mosque was designed by British architect Leofric Kesteven. He combined Islamic architecture with art-deco and western cathedral influences. It was completed in September 1932.
Let’s investigate Klang’s restaurants. They are numerous and diverse. They cater to all tastes. You can find Malay Indian and Chinese food. There is plenty of fish on the menu.
As we set sail through the Malacca Strait again, we pass out of sight of industry and commerce. We see a setting sun over the extensive mangrove swamps. It is a scant memory of the terrain before trade made this area a frenetic hub. Klang’s charm lies in its blend of history and modernity. It’s a royal city with much to discover.