Kepong, Selangor
Kepong is a bustling suburban township situated on the northwestern fringe of Kuala Lumpur and bordering Selayang and Sungai Buloh in Selangor. Known for its lively food culture, mix of modern and traditional neighbourhoods, and proximity to lush forest reserves, Kepong is one of the most diverse and dynamic areas within the Klang Valley. 1
Quick Facts
- Located on the northwestern edge of Kuala Lumpur, bordering Selayang and Sungai Buloh.
- Partly within Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory and partly within Gombak District, Selangor.
- Known for Kepong Baru, Bandar Menjalara, and Desa ParkCity.
- Served by Duta–Ulu Klang Expressway (DUKE, E33), North–South Expressway Northern Route (PLUS, E1), and MRR2.
- Famous for FRIM (Forest Research Institute Malaysia) and Kepong Metropolitan Park.
- Governed by both DBKL (Kuala Lumpur) and MPS (Majlis Perbandaran Selayang).
History and How the Town Was Established
Kepong was originally a tin mining area during the British colonial period, with large tracts of land dedicated to mining and rubber cultivation. Its name is believed to have come from the Malay word kepung, meaning “to surround”, referring to how the area is encircled by hills. 2
As mining declined, the land was gradually converted into residential and commercial zones, leading to the formation of townships such as Kepong Baru, Taman Bukit Maluri, and Bandar Menjalara. The establishment of FRIM in the early 20th century added a research and conservation identity to the area. 3
Characteristic of the Town
Kepong is known for its energetic atmosphere, characterised by bustling markets, authentic eateries, and vibrant communities. It is one of the Klang Valley’s favourite food destinations, offering a wide variety of Chinese, Malay, and international cuisines. 4
The town features a mix of mature neighbourhoods, industrial estates, and new urban developments, including the upscale enclave of Desa ParkCity, which has become one of Malaysia’s most desirable residential addresses. 5
Real Estate and Property Market There
The property landscape in Kepong is diverse, ranging from older terrace houses and apartment blocks to premium condominiums and gated communities. Established areas like Kepong Baru and Taman Bukit Maluri offer affordable housing options, while Desa ParkCity represents the luxury end of the market with high-end homes and a self-contained lifestyle concept. 6
The township’s value has been strengthened by improved transport infrastructure and ongoing commercial expansion, making it attractive to families and investors alike. 7
Accessibility and Transportation
Kepong is highly accessible via major routes including the Duta–Ulu Klang Expressway (DUKE, E33), North–South Expressway Northern Route (PLUS, E1), and the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2). The Kuala Lumpur–Kuala Selangor Expressway (LATAR, E25) also enhances regional connectivity. 8
Public transport is well-developed, with the Kepong and Kepong Sentral KTM Komuter stations serving the area, while the MRT Putrajaya Line further boosts accessibility with stations such as Metro Prima and Kepong Baru. 9
Landmarks and Places of Interest
- Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) – a major eco-tourism and research site featuring forest trails and canopy walks.
- Kepong Metropolitan Park – a large recreational park popular for kite flying, jogging, and lakeside activities.
- Desa ParkCity – an award-winning planned township with a vibrant town centre and landscaped parks.
- Kepong Baru Night Market – one of the longest night markets in the Klang Valley, renowned for street food.
- The Waterfront @ Desa ParkCity – a lifestyle destination for dining and leisure by the lake.
Fun Fact
Kepong’s FRIM (Forest Research Institute Malaysia) houses one of the oldest man-made rainforests in the world, established in 1929 on what was once degraded mining land — now a model for successful reforestation. 10
Map of Kepong, Selangor
Sights in Kepong
- Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) (GPS: 3.23486, 101.62984)
- Kepong Sentral (GPS: 3.20861, 101.62805)
- Taman Botani Kepong (GPS: 3.22686, 101.62883)
Kepong is 
on the Map of Towns in Selangor
References
- Wikipedia – Kepong
- Tourism Selangor – FRIM Kepong
- EdgeProp – Kepong Property Market
- PropertyGuru – Kepong Area Guide
- New Straits Times – Kepong, A Food Paradise
- Forest Research Institute Malaysia – Official Website
- Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL) – Official Site
- Majlis Perbandaran Selayang (MPS) – Official Site
- MRT Corp – Putrajaya Line
- The Edge – Desa ParkCity: Malaysia’s Best Planned Township
