Why KL’s Urban Museum (Ur-Mu) is a must-visit for art lovers

Art enthusiasts, get ready to update your museum-hopping list! The second Urban Museum (UR-MU) has been unveiled at Toffee, a newly renovated building in Raja Chulan. This sleek contemporary art gallery houses a collection of over 200 artworks, including never-before-seen pieces, in a space poised to become a bustling F&B hotspot. 

The building itself is a masterpiece, seamlessly blending contemporary design with hints of Art Deco, as well as early Malaysian modernist and colonial furniture. This thoughtful integration of architecture and art not only complements the exhibitions but also plays a crucial role in engaging visitors of all ages in their artistic narrative. 

UR-MU at Toffee features two distinct art collections across levels five and six, with plenty of seating scattered throughout. This new space is more than just a museum—it’s an immersive experience that bridges the past, present, and future through art and design. Keep scrolling to get the lowdown on what awaits inside this art haven.

A journey through artistic realms 

On Level 5, visitors can immerse themselves in various themed areas showcasing diverse visuals by internationally acclaimed contemporary artists from the region. Start your journey in the nostalgic ‘1950s Lounge’ and then waltz into the whimsical ‘Creatures’ section—each area is like stepping into a whole new world.

The thematic rollercoaster continues with the minimalist ‘Black and White’ artworks, sharply contrasting the vibrant hues of the ‘Colourists’ section. Moving forward, ‘Future Art’ displays themes of innovation and social change, while ‘The Pantry’ intriguingly serves up art with cuisine, combining creativity with everyday comforts. 

Then, brace yourself for the ‘Power and War’ section, which packs a punch with its deep, thought-provoking artworks on human conflict and resilience. Finally, ‘Silky Toffee’ adds a dash of dreamlike creativity and pays homage to two beloved pets, wrapping up this eclectic first exhibition in style.

A tribute to Malaysian figurative art

Ascend to the sixth floor, where the second exhibition, ‘Tubuh: Selected Works from the Pakha Sulaiman Collection,’ awaits. This compelling collection reflects the journey of Pakhruddin Sulaiman, a prominent art collector whose passion for art was shared with his late wife, Fatimah Sulaiman.

Prepare to be amazed by over 100 artworks from 15 renowned Malaysian artists. These pieces span the 1990s to the early 2000s and capture significant historical moments, including the Malaysian political Reformasi movement. The central theme here? Figurative art, with artists using the human body as a canvas to convey social, religious, political, and cultural critiques.

Co-curated by Sarah Abu Bakar, this exhibition is an art lover’s dream, inviting visitors to explore nine rooms, each telling a unique story about Malaysian society and art history. Pakhruddin’s art collection is a testament to his keen interest in socio-political themes, cultural identity, and global affairs, all delivered with a dash of wit and satire.

Visit UR-MU @ Toffee, Raja Chulan 

Address: 2, Jalan Raja Chulan, City Centre, 50100 Kuala Lumpur

Opening hours: 10am to 8.30pm (Tuesday to Sunday) | closed on Monday and selected public holidays

Price: RM20 for adults | RM10 for students with valid ID, seniors, and visitors with disabilities  

Contact: +603 2110 3004 or email [email protected]

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