Bridging the community culture and making KL more pedestrian-friendly.
The Saloma Link (Pintasan Saloma in Malay) is a new pedestrian bridge that connects two important districts in Kuala Lumpur: Kampong Bharu and the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC).
Inspired by the Sirih Junjung, a matrimonial gift hand‐crafted from Sireh leaves, traditionally offered in Malay weddings as a symbol of unity, the Saloma Link represents a ceremonial gesture that embodies the bond between two essential enclaves in the city: the affluent KLCC and the historical village of Kampong Bharu. Beyond promoting increased connectivity and walkability, the Saloma Link aims to stimulate the conservation and redevelopment of this historical part of the city.
Site and context analysis
Kampong Bharu is a historical precinct of 198 acres with a predominantly Malay Muslim settlement located at the heart of Kuala Lumpur. In the late 19th century, Kampong Bharu and KLCC districts were once connected by a small footbridge across the Klang River. The building of the Ampang Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH) in 1996 along the riverbank created a physical barrier that further divided the communities. Saloma Link aims to re‐establish this historical connection and provide direct pedestrian connectivity. The bridge will become a new symbol for Kampung Bharu’s future and a catalyst to bring new development and business opportunities to the old district.
Project details
The curved steel roof canopy comprises 4,100 diamond facade modules made of solid and perforated Aluminum, glass and transparent panels. The configuration of these panels are designed to enhance the overlapping concept of Sirih Junjung, and its pattern references those found in traditional Malay arts & craft.
Each of the façade panels has state‐of‐the‐art lighting modules to illuminate the bridge at night. However, during the day, the panel’s unique shape enables it to reflect the sunlight, giving the bridge a slight glimmer and distinctive character. The façade panels also create a play of light and shadows to offer a unique experience as one walks through the bridge. The façade media lighting can be programmed for different events, contributing to the bridge’s popularity during local festivities.
The Saloma Link is now an important part of Kuala Lumpur’s urban landscape, blending tourism, recreation, and cultural significance. It draws photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike with its unique architecture and panoramic views of the KLCC skyline, with the Petronas Twin Towers.
Sustainable future development
The Saloma Link and Kampung Bharu Masterplan are part of our future vision for Kuala Lumpur’s urban regeneration. Establishing this first modern pedestrian link sets the development on the right sustainable footing that prioritises pedestrian mobility. The Masterplan envisions a revitalised, higher-density residential enclave in the city centre, creating a greater sense of belonging and identity for city centre dwellers and significantly reducing the daily commuting between the city centre and suburban areas. It has become part of the effort to encourage pedestrian mobility and promote sustainable urban design and place‐making, reclaiming the historical memory and connection of the old Malay Muslim village to the modern city of Kuala Lumpur today. We believe the Saloma Link plays a pivotal role in setting the foundation for the future vision and development of Kampung Bharu.
The facade panels create a play of light and shadows.
Written by: VERITAS Design Group
VERITAS began as an architectural practice but now offers a full range of supporting design services for the built environment through subsidiary companies.
