1Malaysia Contemporary Art Tourism Festival
Vibrant colours leap out from the painting, embellishing the walls with a unique style of Malaysian contemporary art.
Malaysian art scene has steadily gained acclaimed recognition with the emergence of unique painting styles, catapulting Malaysia's artists to international prominence.
Gaining momentum as an art tourism destination, Malaysia is slowly but surely entering the international art foray with a yearly three-month long campaign held from July to September under the aptly titled, ' 1Malaysia Contemporary Art Tourism Festival'.
Entering its third year, the festival, aims to establish Malaysia as a hub for contemporary art in the region by showcasing the works of local artists. The collaboration of art galleries, museums, state governments, embassies and educational institutions, NGOs and the private sector is also helping to promote the event extensively.
1Malaysia International Shoe Festival
I love shoes!
Be-ribboned tied in cute bows, stilettos, chic sandals, jazzy platforms, comfortable pumps or even a sexy pair of boots, or two… oh, you’ll be spoiled for choice at this year’s shoe festival.
Especially with the launch of the 3rd Malaysia International Shoe Festival at Putra World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur. The event is held from 30 March till 1 April, 2012 starting at 10.30 am till 8.30 pm.
Bajau Parang Making
Drop by Kampung Siasai in Kota Belud, on the outskirts of Kota Kinabalu to learn more of the ancient traditions of parang making in Sabah. The village is famed for its handmade parangs by the Bajau community.
A parang is a medium-sized tool or weapon, or better known as a long blade or machete has been handmade by the Bajaus in Sabah for generations. It is used for clearing land, cutting meat and also as wall decorations.
Kuala Lumpur Craft Centre
A visit to the Kuala Lumpur Craft Cultural Complex at Jalan Conlay, is a wonderful hidden gem. Tucked away from the busy 
traffic, this craft centre is situated in an open-concept building, with traditional motifs and intricate wooden carvings.
The complex houses several different sections comprising a craft museum, artists’ colony and craft village as well as batik gallery and souvenir shop.
Stepping into the complex, one is greeted with the latest cultural exhibits. On display are local handicrafts such as batik, rattan baskets, pottery, and other crafty knick-knacks.
Make your way to the artists’ colony to try your hand at batik painting. Visitors are encouraged to participate and leave their prints behind.
Interesting tips:
This is a great place to find more about the history of songket weaving. One is able to view the ornate and expensive gold thread songket also on display in glass cases.
To get there:
One can use the monorail and stop at the Raja Chulan station. Follow the signage to the complex. It is a 30 minute walk (leisurely pace).
Another alternative is to go there by taxi.
There is also a shuttle service available, upon request, at the complex to hotels in the city center. Check with the information counter to verify.
Visit their website at http://www.kraftangan.gov.my/main/or call +6 03 2162 7459 for further information.
Address:
The Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex, Section 63, Jalan Conlay, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.