KUALA LUMPUR's blend of modern landmarks, cultural diversity and improved transport connectivity has earned the Malaysian capital a place on travel publisher Frommer’s “Best Places to Go in 2027” list.
Frommer’s editor-in-chief Jason Cochran described the city as a dynamic Southeast Asian metropolis, highlighting its rapid urban development and attractions such as Merdeka 118 and the Petronas Twin Towers.
He said the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), which will connect the Klang Valley to the east coast, would further strengthen Kuala Lumpur's appeal by making more destinations across Peninsular Malaysia accessible to international visitors.
"The new railway line starts from Kuala Lumpur, better known as KL, and stretches about 400 miles to the east coast of the Malay Peninsula," he said in a video shared on Frommer’s Instagram account.
Cochran said travelling to the east coast previously involved lengthy bus journeys or complicated arrangements involving several routes.
"Now, you can get to the east coast of the peninsula in about four hours. For comparison, that is almost the same amount of time it takes to travel by express bus from KL to Singapore.
"This means more places in the region are now within reach, including destinations you might never have considered visiting before," he said.
The 665km ECRL will connect the Integrated Transport Terminal Gombak in Kuala Lumpur to Kota Bharu, Kelantan, with the journey expected to take about four hours.
Cochran also said Kuala Lumpur offered facilities and services that would make international travellers feel comfortable.
"KL itself is an exciting modern city in Southeast Asia. Travellers will feel comfortable because the city has facilities and services that cater to their needs," he said.
Founded by Arthur Frommer in 1957, Frommer’s is a travel guide and digital media brand offering printed guidebooks, digital resources and podcasts. - November 3, 2026
