KUALA LUMPUR — Once known as a quiet town, Kuala Lipis has taken on a new vibrancy with its weekly Car-Free Zone, turning the heart of the town into a bustling hub of culture, recreation and commerce.
Since February last year, the Lipis District Council has closed a 1.5-kilometre stretch of Jalan Besar and Jalan Jelai every Saturday night from 7pm to midnight, transforming the area from the Alamanda Complex to Thean Hou Temple into a pedestrian-friendly space.
Council secretary Saharini Omar said the initiative supports national carbon-free city goals while giving residents and visitors healthier recreational options.
“When the road is closed, the area becomes a space for cycling, walking and leisure, but also provides opportunities for small businesses at minimal rental fees. Our goal is not profit-making, but to help the community increase their income,” she said during the Geopark Odyssey: Heritage & Archaeo Tourism programme organised recently by Tourism Malaysia Eastern Region, Bernama reported.
The streets now host everything from health programmes and awareness campaigns to children’s games, buskers and mural art displays. Food quality and cleanliness are also closely monitored to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The response has been steadily growing, with tourists from outside the district now making weekend trips to Kuala Lipis. The town was recently recognised as Malaysia’s Happiest Town 2025.
Local residents say the transformation is striking.
“It used to be quiet, but now every week it’s lively. It’s really fun, especially when coming with family,” said Zarina Mohamed, 52.
For Hafizul Abdullah Hashim, 32, the events offer a chance to spend quality time with loved ones while enjoying local performances.
“Almost every week, there are cultural shows that are not only entertaining but also bring the community together,” he said.
Younger residents share the enthusiasm. Seventeen-year-old student P. Divya Haassini described the car-free nights as a meaningful social hub.
Saharini said the council hopes the community will continue to provide feedback so the weekly programme can grow.
“This programme ultimately offers residents and visitors a fresher weekend night recreation space,” she said. — August 30, 2025