Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Kuala Lumpur stands as a vibrant epicenter for badminton, a sport deeply embedded in Malaysia’s cultural identity and international sporting prestige. The original Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium, built in 1990 in Cheras, was an iconic venue that fostered world-class talent and hosted major tournaments. Though it was demolished in 2017 to make way for urban redevelopment, its legacy continues through modern venues such as Arena Badminton DBKL, ensuring that Kuala Lumpur remains a dynamic hub for badminton enthusiasts, professional athletes, and global competitions.
This guide provides comprehensive insights into the history, legacy, and current badminton scene in Kuala Lumpur. It covers visiting information—including ticketing and hours—travel tips, cultural significance, and practical advice for players, fans, and tourists. For the most up-to-date details, refer to authoritative sources such as the Badminton World Federation, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), and Tourism Malaysia.
Table of Contents
- Historical Development of Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium
- Arena Badminton DBKL: Practical Visitor Information
- Sporting Significance and Legacy
- FAQs: Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium & Arena Badminton DBKL
- Key Facts and Figures
- Kuala Lumpur’s Ongoing Badminton Scene
- Planning Your Visit
- Demolition and Urban Transition
- Badminton Culture: New Facilities, Community, and Retail Support
- Visitor Tips
- Major Tournaments and Tickets
- Summary & Final Tips
- References & Further Reading
Historical Development of Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium
The Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium, locally called Stadium Badminton Kuala Lumpur, was constructed in 1990 in the Cheras district, quickly becoming one of Malaysia’s largest and most celebrated badminton arenas (Wikipedia). With a seating capacity of 4,500, it played a formative role in the nation’s rise as a badminton powerhouse.
Strategically located near Jalan Cheras and adjacent to the Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium, the venue was owned by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) (Wikipedia). For nearly three decades, it hosted national and international tournaments, training camps, and selection trials for junior and elite athletes. Champions such as Liew Daren, Goh V Shem, and Soniia Cheah trained here, marking it as a cradle for Malaysian badminton excellence (Wikipedia).
The stadium also served as the Badminton Asia Confederation headquarters and temporarily housed the Badminton World Federation (BWF) (2005–2006), highlighting Kuala Lumpur’s regional and global importance in the sport (Wikipedia). In 2017, the stadium was demolished to pave the way for new developments, but its spirit endures through the modern Arena Badminton DBKL, opened in 2023 (Wikipedia).
Arena Badminton DBKL: Practical Visitor Information
Location: Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Getting There: Near the Cheras LRT station; accessible via public transport and with ample parking for drivers.
Visiting Hours:
- 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily (subject to change during events; confirm via the DBKL sports page).
Ticketing:
- Hourly court rentals for regular play.
- Event tickets for tournaments are available online or at the box office. Early booking is advised for major matches.
Accessibility:
- Wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms.
Nearby Attractions:
- Cheras Leisure Mall, Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium, and an array of local eateries.
Special Events & Tours:
- Regular tournaments, training camps, and occasional guided tours. Check the DBKL sports page for schedules.
Sporting Significance and Legacy
Nurturing Talent
The original stadium was instrumental in Malaysia’s badminton pipeline, hosting training camps and junior tournaments. Athletes such as Liew Daren and Goh V Shem emerged from this environment, achieving international success (Touristlink; Wikipedia).
Hosting Major Events
The venue hosted tournaments from grassroots to international levels, including the Malaysia Open. The event now takes place at larger venues such as the Axiata Arena, but the Cheras stadium is still fondly remembered (Badminton World Tour).
Community Impact
The stadium fostered community engagement, providing a space for local leagues, school tournaments, and recreational matches. It was a cultural hub where fans celebrated Malaysian badminton heroes (Touristlink).
FAQs: Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium & Arena Badminton DBKL
Q: Is the original Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium open?
A: No, it was demolished in 2017. Arena Badminton DBKL is its successor.
Q: What are Arena Badminton DBKL’s visiting hours?
A: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, but check the official website for changes.
Q: How do I buy event tickets?
A: Purchase online or at the venue’s box office.
Q: Is the venue accessible by public transport?
A: Yes, near Cheras LRT station.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Occasionally; check the DBKL sports page for updates.
Key Facts and Figures
- Established: 1990
- Capacity: 4,500 spectators
- Location: Cheras, Kuala Lumpur
- Ownership: Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL)
- Demolition: 2017 (replaced by Arena Badminton DBKL in 2023)
- Notable Alumni: Liew Daren, Goh V Shem, Soniia Cheah
- Major Events: Malaysia Open, national championships
- Former HQ: Badminton Asia Confederation, BWF (2005–2006)
Kuala Lumpur’s Ongoing Badminton Scene
Kuala Lumpur remains a global badminton hub, hosting major tournaments at venues like Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil (Badminton World Tour). The multicultural community, robust infrastructure, and youth development programs maintain the city’s prominence (Gotraveltipster).
Planning Your Visit
- Stay Updated: Download the Audiala app for schedules and event alerts.
- Tickets: Purchase early for major tournaments.
- Transport: Use LRT/MRT for convenience; parking available at venues.
- Explore Nearby: Enjoy local malls, eateries, and other sports facilities.
External Links:
- Arena Badminton DBKL
- Badminton World Federation (BWF)
- Tourism Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur
- Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil
Demolition and Urban Transition
The stadium, a landmark since 1990 (ms.wikipedia.org), was demolished as part of Kuala Lumpur’s modernization efforts (thesportsgrail.com). Its absence is felt, but its legacy is preserved in new venues and community initiatives.
Badminton Culture: New Facilities, Community, and Retail Support
Modern Venues
New badminton centers like Michael’s Badminton Academy, Pioneer Sports Management, and others now offer high-quality facilities and coaching (funempire.com). Flexible hours and rental equipment make the sport accessible to tourists and locals alike.
Community Initiatives
Projects by BAM and the BWF Malaysia Legacy Project promote inclusivity through coaching clinics and youth training (shuttletime.bwfbadminton.com; tacticalbadmintonclub.com).
Retail and Urban Integration
Specialized shops like Yonex Concept Store and Nikman Sports serve both amateurs and professionals (myweekendplan.asia). Many badminton centers are integrated into shopping malls and residential areas, ensuring easy access (funempire.com).
Visitor Tips
- Reserve courts in advance, especially at popular venues.
- Rent equipment if needed; most centers provide rackets and shuttlecocks.
- Enroll in group or private coaching sessions.
- Check BAM (bam.org.my) for tournament schedules.
- Shop for gear at leading sports retailers.
- Participate in community events and clinics.
Major Tournaments and Tickets
The Malaysia Open, a BWF World Tour Super 1000 event, is held annually in Kuala Lumpur (Sportskeeda). Tickets are available online and at venues; prices vary by round and seat. Real-time updates can be found on Tournament Software.
Sample 2025 Malaysia Open Schedule:
- Jan 7 & 8: Round of 32
- Jan 9: Round of 16
- Jan 10: Quarterfinals
- Jan 11: Semifinals
- Jan 12: Finals
For a full event calendar, see the BWF Events Calendar.
Summary & Final Tips
Though the Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium no longer stands, its legacy shapes Malaysia’s badminton culture. Modern venues like Arena Badminton DBKL and Axiata Arena continue to foster talent and host prestigious events, while community programs and accessible facilities ensure the sport remains at the heart of city life.
Whether attending an international tournament, booking a court at a local academy, or exploring Kuala Lumpur’s sporting heritage, visitors can immerse themselves in a dynamic badminton culture. Stay updated through the Audiala app, DBKL Sports, and the Badminton World Federation. Experience why Kuala Lumpur is a beacon for badminton in Southeast Asia and beyond.
References and Further Reading
- Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium: History, Visitor Information, and Legacy in Malaysia’s Sporting Scene. (Wikipedia)
- Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium: History, Legacy, Visiting Info & Modern Badminton Culture. (MS Wikipedia)
- Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide. (Sportskeeda)
- Badminton in Kuala Lumpur: History, Major Tournaments, Tickets, Visiting Hours, and Visitor Guide. (Supanet)
- Badminton World Federation (BWF). (https://bwfbadminton.com)
- Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) Official Website. (https://www.dbkl.gov.my)
- Tourism Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur. (https://www.malaysia.travel/en/my/destinations/kuala-lumpur)
- Axiata Arena at Bukit Jalil. (https://bukitjalilsportscomplex.com.my/axiata-arena/)
- The Star: Rashid says Thomas Cup success story will come alive via Sentuhan Wira movie. (The Star)
- Touristlink
- Badminton World Tour
- Gotraveltipster
- funempire.com
- myweekendplan.asia
- shuttletime.bwfbadminton.com
- tacticalbadmintonclub.com
- bam.org.my
