Huh finally I am writing again. After three years of not actively writing.
This time, I want to share the exciting experience of my journey to one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, namely Kuala Lumpur. This city is known for its magnificent skyscrapers, diverse culture, and delicious food. But I went to Kuala Lumpur to attend an International IT Security event. This was my first time traveling abroad alone. Truly alone. Just communication through WhatsApp chat with a friend there (a Malaysian person whom I had met once when they visited Jakarta). Nervous, but he said it's okay, God willing, it's safe.
Oh ya, I was in Kuala Lumpur for 5 days and 4 nights. The conference lasted for 3 days.
Here, I will only tell my personal experiences, so it's not too long. Let's dive into the full story below!
Day 1: Arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport
Upon arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, I was a bit confused because there were no security guards to ask. But the signs at the airport were comprehensive enough. My destination was Kuala Lumpur Convention Center (KLCC). I stayed at Impiana Hotel near from KLCC.
I chose to take a bus from KLIA1 to KL Sentral, and then continued using the Kelana Jaya Line (MRT) to KLCC. The journey took about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach KLCC.
When I arrived at KLCC, my friend told me that it was raining. So, I went underneath to get to the hotel. Phew, going around. Pushing my suitcase. It felt tiring, but it was exciting. Because I finally arrived at a hotel in a foreign land, even though I was alone.
In the evening, my friend invited me to dinner at the KLCC, called Suria KLCC. Turns out KLCC is amazing. Absolutely mesmerizing! There's a park, dancing fountains, and a view of the Petronas Twin Towers.
KLCC Park
Dancing Fountains
Petronas Twin Towers
Day 2: First Day of the Conference
From morning until afternoon, I attended the conference. I was somewhat surprised to find out that I was a delegate. I thought I would be a regular attendee. Alright, I have to give it my all.
ID Card event
*The experience will be published later*
Since my friend had dinner with the event organizers, I wandered around on my own after the event ended. I walked to Bukit Bintang. It was so lively there. Full of tourists.
Bukit Bintang
I also look for unique food. Ta-da, I finally found it. It's called Kunafa Crisp.
Kunafa Crisp
Day 3: Second Day of the Conference
Still pretty much the same as yesterday. But, I was invited to dinner at Alor Street.
Here, I gather with Nanosec (community in Malaysia) trainers from various countries such as the Philippines, Singapore and China, which are definitely different cultures. I gained insight into collaboration and growing together. The point is about mindset.
If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. – African Proverb
Their culture when the event is over is to have dinner together on the last day. This is for the purpose of getting to know each other.
And yes, I got to know the others. But because I still passively on speak English, I only speak a little. Or ask my friend to translate it. Haha never mind. I'll get used to it later my friend said.
Dinner at Alor Street
Day 4: Third Day of the Conference
The final day of the conference.
During the lunch break, I took a moment to visit KLCC Park. Enjoying the fresh air and the breathtaking view of the twin towers.
In the evening, finally, the tasks at the event were completed. Only the responsibility remained.
As it got a bit late, my friend asked what I wanted to eat. I said nasi lemak. Well, before flying back to Indonesia tomorrow. How could I not try anything?
Finally, I was taken to have nasi lemak in Kampung Baru. After finishing, we stopped by the Petronas Twin Towers for some photos.
In front of petronas Twin Towers
Day 5: Returning to Indonesia
This morning, I felt happy to be going back to Indonesia, but sad to leave the city of Kuala Lumpur that provided an extraordinary experience. An unforgettable experience. From the city's beauty to its cultural and culinary richness.
I hope my travel story can inspire you to plan a similar adventure.
See you in the next travel story!