Leon Leong’s solo exhibition
As Kuala Lumpur pulses with renewed cultural energy this August, a thoughtfully curated calendar of events promises to engage the city’s most discerning tastemakers. From the lyrical genius of Chopin echoing through the hallowed halls of Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, to the intricate tapestries of memory and place explored in Leon Leong’s latest solo exhibition, the month is a celebration of artistic depth and creative mastery.
Whether you’re drawn to cinematic grandeur, acoustic virtuosity, or the intimate charm of local artisans, these handpicked highlights offer more than entertainment — they offer inspiration. Here’s where to be seen, and more importantly, where to feel something deeply, this August in KL.
Chopin Festival I
- Date: 1 – 16 August
- Venue: Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS
- Purchase tickets here.
Dive into an enchanting world of Chopin as the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra brings timeless romanticism to life in KLCC’s architectural gem. Expect musical crescendos that stir both intellect and imagination.
The Godown Artists Market
- Date: 9-10 August
- Venue: The Godown Arts Centre, Bukit Nanas
Discover Kuala Lumpur’s thriving art and maker scene in this converted warehouse venue. From handcrafted goods to vibrant creative showcases, The Godown radiates charm and authenticity—entry is free.
Royal Selangor Jazz Festival
- Date: 10 August
- Venue: Royal Selangor Visitor Centre, Setapak
- More info here.
Indulge in a day-long jazz odyssey at the iconic pewter-makers’ campus. With 19 acts across four stages, expect everything from soulful vocals to genre-bending fusion. Complementing the music: film screenings, artisan markets, food trucks, and open-jam sessions—this is jazz reimagined.
John Williams vs Hans Zimmer – Cinema in Concert
- Date: 26-27 August
- Venue: Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS
- Purchase tickets here.
Two film-score legends—epic soundtracks of Star Wars, Harry Potter, Gladiator, and more—brought to life by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra in an orchestral showdown of cinematic proportions.
Tommy Emmanuel Live in KL
- Date: 29 August
- Venue: PJ Live Arts @ Jaya One
Experience fingerstyle guitar mastery from Grammy-beloved virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel. His performance at PJ Live Arts promises technical brilliance infused with emotive storytelling—perfect for anyone who cherishes instrumental artistry
‘Making Room’ by Malaysian artist, Leon Leong
- Date: 2-30 August
- Venue: Wei-Ling Gallery, Brickfields KL
Leon Leong navigates memory, architecture, and belonging in this immersive exhibition. Through evocative installations set within a heritage shophouse, “Making Room” becomes a portal into Malaysia’s evolving cultural narrative. The show spotlights key pieces from Cracks in the Wall and AISYALAM: The Tree Nation, projects shaped by long-term site research and shared dialogue.
Bonus:
negaraku II
Siang Malam Mamak by Kide Baharudin. Photo by Shankar Laxminarayan.
- Date: 1–31 August
- Venue: Hin Bus Depot, Penang
- More info here.
Venture north to George Town for negaraku II, a poignant reflection on Malaysian identity and belonging. Curated by Ivan Gabriel and drawn from Bingley Sim & Ima Norbinsha’s collections, this exhibition elevates the everyday—blending visual art, storytelling, food demos (Roti Jala, Nasi Ulam), and multilingual tours—into a sensory, inclusive experience. Admission is free.
