1st time I joined a race/running event which was held at Padang Merbok, Kuala Lumpur. The running event started at Padang Merbok, and the route circles around Bank Negara HQ and Bukit Tunku area.
Padang Merbok, situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, was a vast open field built during the colonial era, Padang Merbok became a pivotal site during the nation's struggle for independence. On August 31, 1957, the historic declaration of Malaysia's freedom was made nearby at Stadium Merdeka, solidifying Padang Merbok's connection to the birth of the nation. Over the years, this expansive green space has hosted numerous national celebrations, public gatherings, and cultural events, standing witness to Malaysia's sociopolitical evolution. Padang Merbok is also commonly used for public gatherings and meetings.
The nearest train line to Padang Merbok is Masjid Jamek LRT. If you're taking MRT, just do a switch from Pasar Seni MRT or Muzium Negara to Pasar Seni LRT and Masjid Jamek is just 1 stop away.
After existing Masjid Jamek LRT, just walk straight towards the old high court building and around 1-2km you will see Padang Merbok. Padang means "field" and the place seems to be a rugby field. The old court house is not really old but a name given to the moorish architecture while building which used to formerly served as a court house. The old court house has been taken over by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and is now open to the public for tours and events
Looking back, I'm glad I didn't not opt to take car as the day of the run, it was KL car free day, majority of the roads in Kuala Lumpur were close for cars. I would have had an extremely hard time to find parking taking a car. Therefore lesson learnt is always take public transport when going into Kuala Lumpur.
