LORONG Kasturi, a lane next to Kuala Lumpur’s Central Market, officially became Kasturi Walk after it was launched in style recently. The covered mall, where three pewter-coated polycarbonate giant wau bulan stand, was launched by Kuala Lumpur director-general Datuk Salleh Yusup. The crowd cheered as fireworks splashed across the night sky during the grand opening ceremony. Central Market Sdn Bhd has set up 55 alfresco-style retail and F&B kiosks at Kasturi Walk.

In his speech, Salleh said the walkway was in line with the government’s effort to attract more tourists to the iconic location. He hoped the upgraded walkway would bring more comfort to the people and open up more business opportunities. “We look forward to the collaboration with corporate bodies in developing Kuala Lumpur. “We consider this opening as commitment from Central Market in giving comfort to customers and tourists,” he said.

Central Market managing director Bernard Bond said the company had invested RM8mil to build Kasturi Walk. He said the lane had not only been upgraded but also equipped with closed-circuit TV cameras (CCTVs) and in-house Rela security. “As owners of Central Market, it is important to retain and promote culture in the area, so we decided to use the wau design as a symbol of Malay heritage. “The idea behind the walkway is simple; like a marriage of what Malaysians and tourists like to do — eat and shop,” he said.

The celebration continued with the Chap Goh Mei 2011 festivity at Central Market, organised with the Federal Territory Wanita MCA and Universiti Putra Malaysia’s (UPM) Zhong Hua Cultural Association. The festival was officiated by Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Senator Heng Seai Kie. The objective of the event was to gather Malaysians of different races to join the festival and experience Chap Goh Mei. Visitors to the event were treated to cultural and lion dances and diabolo performances. They also received mandarin oranges.
-thestar online.