That’s Putrajaya, Malaysia’s federal administrative capital.
Planned, designed, and developed in the 1990s, it’s one of Southeast Asia’s most ambitious urban projects.
Located just 25 Km (30 minutes by car) from Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya was created to ease congestion in KL and house government ministries, agencies, and civil servants.
And all of this feels like walking through one giant, master-planned complex: everything is connected, orderly, and unmistakably forward-looking.
What makes it stand out?
1️⃣ Green and open by design: Nearly 40% of the city is green space or water.
2️⃣ Administrative nerve centre: All federal ministries (except a few), PM's residence are here.
3️⃣ Urban layout built for efficiency: Wide boulevards, smart zoning, and impressive infrastructure.
4️⃣ Iconic architecture: From the culturally strong pink-domed Putra Mosque to the modernist Seri Wawasan Bridge, every part of the city was meant to reflect Malaysia’s identity and ambition.
Yet, despite its planning and beauty, I'm surprised Putrajaya feels under the radar: calm, spacious, and strikingly different from the busy energy of KL.
I'd be delighted to bring friends and family/guests for a quick day trip for sure!
You visit this place and you feel that cities aren’t just born, they’re built with purpose.
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