KUALA LUMPUR: The government has allocated RM4 million to implement the I Lite U project in Bukit Bintang, aimed at transforming the city’s busiest commercial district into a smart and sustainable night-time zone ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the I Lite U (Innovative Lighting Infrastructure Towards Eco-Elegance Urbanisation) initiative is designed to enhance Kuala Lumpur’s night-time experience and strengthen its international appeal.
“This is not just a lighting project. It’s about making Kuala Lumpur more vibrant, safe and sustainable.
“We want Bukit Bintang to shine as the heartbeat of Malaysia’s tourism and cultural identity,” he said during the project’s pre-launch at Dadi Cinema in Pavilion Bukit Bintang yesterday.
Nga said the Housing and Local Government Ministry has allocated RM2 million for the initiative, with Kuala Lumpur City Hall matching the amount, bringing the total to RM4 million.
He said the project forms part of the government’s tourism recovery agenda ahead of 2026.
“Tourism is now Malaysia’s second-largest source of national income. If we do this well, the positive effects will reach all sectors, from hotels and food and beverage to media and the creative industries.”
Nga confirmed that Jalan Bukit Bintang would be temporarily closed on Jan 3, 2026, to make way for what he described as the district’s first cultural street parade, and advised visitors to use public transport to ensure smooth travel.
“There will be cultural performances along the entire stretch of Bukit Bintang. This will be the first time a parade of this scale is held here.
“We chose Jan 3 because the Christmas and New Year crowds are already very heavy.
“This date spreads the celebration across the long weekend.”
He said the event is scheduled to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, with Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh invited as a guest of honour.
Nga said the initiative would also involve SWCorp and Alam Flora in daily waste management and recycling activities throughout the event.
He added that the I Lite U project design draws inspiration from Tokyo’s Ginza district and Singapore’s Orchard Road.
“Our benchmark is clear. Allocation has been given. Now, it’s time to perform and deliver,” he said, adding that City Hall would determine the contractors and oversee implementation.
Earlier, Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif said the lighting upgrade forms part of Kuala Lumpur’s shift towards a low-carbon, pedestrian-friendly city.
“Each light installed is not just illumination but a symbol of safety, inclusivity and the wellbeing of both residents and visitors.”
She said the initiative is part of City Hall’s long term plan to enhance walkability, night-time identity and public space accessibility in the capital.
The project is being implemented under a 4P (public-private-people partnership) model involving the ministry and City Hall, together with Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and the Bukit Bintang-KLCC Tourism Association as strategic partners, and supported by Tourism Malaysia.
