The COVID-19 pandemic and movement restrictions greatly impacted many industries and professions. Beyond the social effects, the financial blow was perhaps felt most among those working in the entertainment and nightlife sector. The once-booming industry went into a total hiatus, and the entertainment sector in the Klang Valley has had to adapt its business model to try and survive prolonged closures and restrictions.
Offering their cocktails for takeaway and delivery was just one of the ways to pivot their business, ensuring consumers could still enjoy a small slice of normalcy during the multiple lockdowns. However, deejays and musicians continued to struggle as entertainment events and shows were not allowed as part of the standard operating procedures that were still effectively in place.
Fortunately, in May 2022, pubs and nightclubs could reopen their doors after 788 days, provided they comply with the requirements. Now, the nightlife and clubbing scene is almost back in full swing, but pre-pandemic partygoers will find that the scene has quite changed.
For those venturing out again after a prolonged hiatus, here are some of the legacy spots (and some new locales) to hit up if you’re looking to bask in the cover of the night to dance it out once more!
Kyo, Mandarin Oriental
For the most part, Kyo is a hip-hop and RnB club with house, techno, and EDM nights from established promoters. Considered a legacy club in Kuala Lumpur (KL), Kyo is widely regarded as the heart of the KL club scene.
Located in the basement of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, it has been constructed with minimalist, industrial architecture and accents of Asian influences. Get your groove on with the open dance floor and its infusion of European music and Asian sensibilities.
#ZafigoTip: Reservations are recommended. Hit them up on their socials to speak to their designated promoters to get the most up-to-date advice on minimal spending for tables, recommended times for arrival, and other concerns.
Address: Mandarin Oriental KL, Basement Level 3, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Pisco Bar, Jalan Mesui
While most would know Pisco Bar as more of a resto-bar with Peruvian and Spanish influences (complete with delicious ceviche and cocktails), there is a second layer, or rather, floor to the establishment. On the second floor, with a more bar-like vibe, Pisco Bar hosts weekend DJs with a dance floor for those looking to get into the groove of things.
Expect a good mix of the local and international crowd, signature cocktails that delight, and music that will make you want to lose yourself!
Address: 29 Jalan Mesui, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2142 2900
Fono, Zhongshan Building
The little dance house (it’s quite literally a little home space!), Fono, officially opened its doors at The Zhongshan Building back in January 2018. Get your dose of danceable beats ranging from regular hip hop to eclectic mixes such as Malay funk and Afro-Latin grooves in their current post-pandemic calendar. If you’re lucky, there might even be a live percussionist on the floor to get you into the mood.
Bookings are highly recommended in the post-pandemic environs, and walk-ins are subject to availability. So, keep an eye on their socials to keep updated on their weekly line-ups and make your bookings accordingly.
Address: 80 Jalan Rotan, Kampung Attap, 50460 Kuala Lumpur
The Iron Fairies KL, TREC
The jewel of TREC, The Iron Fairies KL brand takes its décor themes from a fantasy where ore miners stumble upon little-winged spirits and lots of fairy dust. True to its inspiration, the dark-enclosed Butterfly Room resembles an iron mine with a mythical twist! Though not as spacious as most clubs, this spot gets enough right for it to survive the pandemic and still be packed out most nights.
#ZafigoTip: Get there early to avoid any entrance kerfuffles but expect the magic of the fairies (and the music) to really kick things up a notch at around 11pm or midnight.
Address: H-G-06, Hive, TREC, 438, Jln Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6016 221 3612
Vibes Club, TREC
As one of KL’s largest entertainment and hangout spots, TREC has more than just one club to offer, and over at Vibes Club, it’s all about the themes. A weekly rotation that starts every Tuesday sees new lighting schemes and music to go with whatever’s the theme for the day.
On top of that, a carefully curated mix of local artists and international DJs brings crowd favourites from EDM, trance, and psychedelic pop. With over 3,000 square feet of space, you can find your own safe spot to sway and move at!
Address: 436, Jalan Tun Razak, Kelab Golf di Raja Selangor, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6011 1671 6363
