Traffic Stops, Party Starts: Bukit Bintang Closes For Countdown 2026 And Beyond

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Several key roads in Kuala Lumpur’s Bukit Bintang area will be temporarily closed over the New Year period to accommodate celebrations and the launch of the “I Lite U 2026” festival, part of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Countdown Festival Setup:

New Year’s Eve Celebration:

‘I Lite U 2026’ Festival:

Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has advised motorists planning to enter the city during these periods to use public transport or plan their routes to avoid heavy traffic congestion around Pavilion KL and Jalan Sultan Ismail.

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) is organising a “Countdown 2026” festival at Pavilion KL, Bukit Bintang on 31 December, running from 7:00 PM to 12:30 AM.

The event will feature local and international artists, including Shila Amzah, Aina Abdul, Vanessa Reynauld, Kidd Santhe, The Kuans, Belle Sisoski, and K-pop group KLP48.

Highlights include spectacular fireworks, drone symphony performances, and cultural showcases as part of the “Surreal Experiences” theme.

Meanwhile, the “I Lite U 2026” festival will be officially launched on 3 January at 7:30 PM at Centre Court, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Oscar-winning actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh.

The “I Lite U” project is an innovative urban lighting initiative (Projek Inovasi Pencahayaan Ke Arah Urbanisasi) designed to strengthen Kuala Lumpur’s nighttime identity as an international-class tourism city through modern, harmonious, and locally inspired illumination.

Implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT), the project aims to illuminate the city’s landmarks and transform Kuala Lumpur into a nighttime tourism destination as part of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

To encourage attendance at the launch event, Grab is offering a RM5 discount on ride bookings made using promo code “ILITEU” on 3 January 2026, limited to the first 1,000 users.

READ MORE: [Photos] Hidden Gem In Bukit Bintang: This 1930s Time Capsule Will Transport You Back To Old Malaya

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