Destinations
Kajang
Beyond Its Satay Reputation Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A K E R I Images by SHAHIDA SAKERI & RESPECTIVE PRODUCT OWNERS
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Of late, Kajang has become a wonderful place to live and play, especially for those looking for better quality of life away from the chaos of an urban centre. In fact, the Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) has made a series of plans to turn this over-200-year-old township into a lifestyle destination of choice. This subdistrict of Hulu Langat has up-to-par education centres and health facilities, served by several highways for better connectivity to neighbouring areas, and access to the extensive Kajang-Sungai Buloh MRT Line. Of course, satay often comes to mind whenever Kajang is thrown into a conversation. But as delicious as that may sound, the area has more to offer. For instance, it has some of the most coveted golf hotspots in Malaysia that can cater to enthusiasts of any ability. The Sungai Long Golf & Country Club, for one, boasts the first world-class Jack Nicklaus Signature course in the nation. The 18-hole Impian Golf & Country Club that spreads across a 142-acre of resplendent course designed by Ross Watson is another desirable option, not forgetting its restaurant that is famous for consistent delicious offerings. On top of these, another Kajang’s charm is its wellpreserved heritage. Travellers should make way to the town centre and find rows and rows of historic two-storey shophouses that are still intact, giving us a glimpse of the olden days. After the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic abates in Malaysia, make way to the Kajang Heritage Centre at Jalan Mendaling, which is a treasure trove of engaging exhibits relating to the town’s legacy in the form of 300 artefacts, tools
and historical documents. Once the centre reopens, be sure to join its eye-opening three-hour guided tours that bring you along the trail of history-rich landmarks such as the first temple to be built in Kajang, Shen Sze She Yar temple; Soon Fatt sundry shop; an 80-year-old hardware shop, Hin Wah Tong; an old post office building; Masjid Jamek Kajang; and last but not least, Restoran Sate Hj Samuri that started the whole satay frenzy back in the 1960s. Kajang is also home to the Kajang Prison that has been around since 1975. Besides serving as the correctional and rehabilitation institution for law offenders, many do not know that there is also a gallery (Galeri Penjara Kajang) within the complex, where public can visit and shop for an array of affordable crafts. In fact, the institution has its very own Batik line called Batik Qaseh that has gathered strong following, including VIP customers such as Malaysia’s current Queen, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah. Come Eid season, members of the public can also get their hands on extensive range of biscuits sold at competitive prices here.
