Restaurant Reviews
Casual Italian Dining at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling
Looking for good Italian food at affordable prices around Sri Petaling? Passione Ristorante Italiano is the place to go!
Note: Passione Ristorante Italiano serves alcohol and pork, but the team is kind enough to hand-pick their best pork-free dishes for me during my visit.
Note: Passione Ristorante Italiano serves alcohol and pork, but the team is kind enough to hand-pick their best pork-free dishes for me during my visit.
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| Casual Italian Dining at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
Casual Italian Dining at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling
Passione takes pride in capturing and understanding the quintessential spirit of Italian cooking. It brings together the creativity in modern gastronomy with traditional recipes in its fusion offerings. The signature dishes here are mostly pork-based which differentiates it from other Italian restaurants in town. |
| Casual Italian Dining at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
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| Bar corner at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
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| Bar corner at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
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| Passione Ristorante Italiano is a two-storey restaurant at Sri Petaling |
Iconic Wood-Fired Pizzas
As you step into Passione, your eyes will immediately be drawn to the mighty brick oven that is responsible for perfecting the restaurant’s iconic 400˚C scented wood fired pizzas. Harking back to the Italian traditions of preparing pizzas, Passione emulates the method by firing up the oven with high heat at even distribution to achieve impeccable caramelisation of the ingredients while infusing a natural smoky aroma. |
| Signature 400˚C scented wood fired pizzas at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
Fresh Pasta Made Daily
The fresh pasta at Passione is made from scratch daily and is never pre-packed. Remember to ask for their prized Pasta ala Chitarra - a treasured specialty that is prepared using a guitar-like instrument for a more porous texture and broader width that enables it to better absorb sauces thoroughly for a rich, flavorful pasta dish.Besides its pasta, here are a few other dishes we sampled at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling:
Passione Ristorante Italiano Menu & Price
Our casual dining experience at Passione was thoughtfully designed by its manager to cater to our pork-free request. Having said that, Passione is famous for its pork-based selections such as its cold cuts and crackling Berkshire. Do check them out if that’s what you’d prefer!
Our intimate meal for two started off with creamy mushroom soup infused with aromatic truffle oil. Next comes the main courses: Seafood Linguine and Prawn Bisque that got us drowning in all the incredible shellfish flavors. We were definitely not leaving without giving one of its pizzas a try, and were delighted with the piping hot and incredibly cheesy Pizza Quattro Formaggi. The deal was sealed with an off-menu dessert item: a classic Tiramisu cake that’s baked for sharing.
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| Mushroom Soup (RM20) Classic Italian wild mushroom soup |
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| Seafood Linguine (RM35) Homemade linguine with fresh clams, shrimps, squids and scallops served in infusion garlic and chili oil |
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| Prawn Bisque (RM35) Creamy bisque with grilled prawns & caviar |
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| Pizza 4 Formaggi (RM35) Chef’s selection of 4 Italian cheeses with cream and tomato sauce. |
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| Off-menu sweet bites: Tiramisu Cake |
Overall, we had an enjoyable casual meal at Passione Ristorante Italiano and truly enjoyed the laidback atmosphere in the middle of bustling Sri Petaling. I definitely recommend the pizzas as the crust is baked to perfection. However, the seafood dishes could have been even better if the ingredients are fresher and picked more selectively. Most of its diners swear by the pork-based dishes, so remember to give them a go while you're here!
Restaurant Reviews
Halal Chinese Food at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant
Looking for the best halal restaurants in Putrajaya? Be sure to check out Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant!
Read also: Malaysia's Most Iconic Mosque: Masjid Putra Putrajaya
During my visit, we had the opportunity to try a few classic favorites such as fried rice, stir-fried meat and vegetables and of course, a rich, savory soup to seal the deal. Every dish here comes in three sizes at different prices - simply choose one according to the number of people dining with you. Not sure how much to order? Ask the waiter to recommend and customize the best serving size for you!
Those dining in groups can opt for a more economical banquet set meal that will also take away the stress of choosing from its elaborate menu. The dishes and prices included in the packages are as follow:
Contact no.: +603 8889 1188
Opening hours: 12-2:30pm, 6-10pm
For related articles, click here.
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| Halal Chinese Food at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant |
Halal Chinese Food at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant
Helmed by award-winning chefs, Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant takes pride in preparing delectable seafood dishes tailored to the preferences of its diners: grilled, poached, fried, sauteed or deviled. It is one of the few halal establishments belonging to the eminent Tai Thong chain of Chinese restaurants. With a goal to preserve the rich traditions of Chinese cuisine, Tai Thong has long been known for its exquisite offering of traditional Cantonese specialties.Read also: Malaysia's Most Iconic Mosque: Masjid Putra Putrajaya
Dining by the Lake
Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant overlooks a man made lake in Taman Botani Putrajaya that promises to elevate dining experience with a picturesque view, serene atmosphere and relaxing cool breeze away from the bustling city. |
| Outdoor seating area at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant |
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| This halal Chinese restaurant in Putrajaya overlooks a man made lake |
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| Indoor seating is also available at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant |
Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant Menu & Price
The restaurant specializes in halal Chinese dishes. While the food is undeniably delicious and on par with authentic Chinese restaurants, the price is slightly higher but well compensated with the amazing environment that is unlike any other.During my visit, we had the opportunity to try a few classic favorites such as fried rice, stir-fried meat and vegetables and of course, a rich, savory soup to seal the deal. Every dish here comes in three sizes at different prices - simply choose one according to the number of people dining with you. Not sure how much to order? Ask the waiter to recommend and customize the best serving size for you!
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| Stir Fried Squid with Salted Egg Yolk (RM35, RM50, RM65) |
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| Seafood Fried Rice (RM20, RM30, RM40) |
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| Foo Yong Egg (RM20, RM30, RM40) |
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| Crab Meat Broth with Sweet Corn (RM18) |
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| Stir Fried Nai Park with Oyster Sauce (RM30, RM40, RM50) |
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| Stir Fried Clams with Black Pepper Sauce (RM35, RM50, RM65) |
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| Stir Fried Black Pepper Chicken (RM28, RM42, RM56) |
Those dining in groups can opt for a more economical banquet set meal that will also take away the stress of choosing from its elaborate menu. The dishes and prices included in the packages are as follow:
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| Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant menu & price |
The next time you are in Putrajaya, remember to drop by the Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant for delicious halal Chinese cuisine!
Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant
Taman Botani Putrajaya, Precinct 1, 62000 PutrajayaContact no.: +603 8889 1188
Opening hours: 12-2:30pm, 6-10pm
For related articles, click here.
Recipes
You’ve tried brownies, but have you tried its vegan, eggless counterpart?
These vegan brownies are exceptionally easy to put together and has a super rich, dense and moist texture that’s perfect for any occasion! To replace the eggs, simply mix together ground flax seeds with liquid to create a sticky solution that will bind the brownies together when they bake. I personally prefer using whole flax seeds as it gives the brownies an added nutty texture that saves me the hassle of having to look for nuts. I used espresso for extra flavors, but feel free to switch it out with hot water if you are not a fan of coffee.
Optional: Top the batter with your preferred choice of nuts before popping it into the oven, such as walnuts or almond for artisanal-looking brownies that is guaranteed to wow your guests!
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
100g chocolate (coarsely chopped)
½ cup vegan butter/vegetable oil (melted)
1 cup sugar (I used unrefined brown)
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp ground flax seeds
6 tbsp hot, unsweetened black coffee (soak for 20 minutes)
Easy Fudgy Vegan Brownies Recipe
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| Easy Fudgy Vegan Brownies Recipe |
You’ve tried brownies, but have you tried its vegan, eggless counterpart?
These vegan brownies are exceptionally easy to put together and has a super rich, dense and moist texture that’s perfect for any occasion! To replace the eggs, simply mix together ground flax seeds with liquid to create a sticky solution that will bind the brownies together when they bake. I personally prefer using whole flax seeds as it gives the brownies an added nutty texture that saves me the hassle of having to look for nuts. I used espresso for extra flavors, but feel free to switch it out with hot water if you are not a fan of coffee.
Optional: Top the batter with your preferred choice of nuts before popping it into the oven, such as walnuts or almond for artisanal-looking brownies that is guaranteed to wow your guests!
Easy Fudgy Vegan Brownies Recipe
Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
200g chocolate (melted)100g chocolate (coarsely chopped)
½ cup vegan butter/vegetable oil (melted)
1 cup sugar (I used unrefined brown)
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp ground flax seeds
6 tbsp hot, unsweetened black coffee (soak for 20 minutes)
Baking Method
- Soak ground flax seeds in hot black coffee for 20 minutes. Set aside.
- Add butter and sugar into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Add in melted chocolate, flax mixture and vanilla until well combined.
- Sift in all the dry ingredients: Flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt and mix well.
- Add coarsely chopped chocolate before pouring batter into a baking dish. Spread with spatula to even out the top.
- Bake for 35 minutes at 180°C.
- Allow to cool for 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
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| Easy Fudgy Vegan Brownies Recipe |
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| Vegan brownies can be fudgy and moist too! |
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| Easy Fudgy Vegan Brownies Recipe |
Happy baking!
For related articles, please click here.
Restaurant Reviews
Havana Dining at NU Sentral Serves Modern Cuban Delights
It was next to impossible to find Cuban cuisine in Malaysia - until the opening of Havana Dining at NU Sentral, Kuala Lumpur!
It’s an incredible experience to see how the Cubans bring together diverse ingredients to create dishes that pack a punch. The spread may seem simple, yet each dish is loaded with flavors. The Cuban cuisine has a tuneful blend of African, Spanish and Caribbean influences, and the similarities are noticeable through the use of certain spices as well as the cooking techniques. As Cuba has a tropical climate and only two seasons: wet and dry, it produces plenty of fruits and root vegetables that are almost similar to what we can find in Malaysia.
A typical Cuban meal consists of both beans and rice - either cooked together or separately. This super duo is regarded as a hearty comfort food that can be enjoyed anytime of the day.
Cuba is globally known for its cigars, but at Havana Dining, you get to have a taste of their take on playful and pretty edible cigar rolls instead - loaded with the good stuff: pulled beef that's been braised for hours and a luscious chili jam. Havana Dining is pork-free, but for those want to indulge in an alcoholic drink, be sure to order from their specially curated cocktail menu. The must-try cocktail here? Dirty Dream in Havana - highly recommended by the manager, chef, bartenders and all its customers here!
If you are not already feeling gratified and full at this point, that means you are ready to move on to the main courses! The entrees are truthfully a tad bit pricey, but you can get more bang for your buck by choosing from the Havana Lunch Special at only RM68 with one starter and one main course, or the Havana Dinner Menu which is equally as impressive!
No, you can't leave without ending your meal with a sweet note.
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| Havana Dining at NU Sentral Serves Modern Cuban Delights |
It’s an incredible experience to see how the Cubans bring together diverse ingredients to create dishes that pack a punch. The spread may seem simple, yet each dish is loaded with flavors. The Cuban cuisine has a tuneful blend of African, Spanish and Caribbean influences, and the similarities are noticeable through the use of certain spices as well as the cooking techniques. As Cuba has a tropical climate and only two seasons: wet and dry, it produces plenty of fruits and root vegetables that are almost similar to what we can find in Malaysia.
A typical Cuban meal consists of both beans and rice - either cooked together or separately. This super duo is regarded as a hearty comfort food that can be enjoyed anytime of the day.
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| Dishes at Havana Dining are not exactly traditional, but they are elevated to meet contemporary standards while preserving Cuban touches in its own unique ways |
Havana Dining at NU Sentral Serves Modern Cuban Delights
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Cuban Fine Dining at Havana Dining, NU Sentral, Kuala Lumpur
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Cuban Credentials & Recognition
Located on the open air gardenscape rooftop of NU Sentral Kuala Lumpur, Havana Dining officially opened its doors to diners on November 16, 2019 in commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the founding of Cuba's capital of Havana. The grand ceremony was officiated by the Cuban ambassador in Malaysia and attended by prominent Cuban and local figures.
Havana Dining promises to deliver an authentic Cuban experience to Malaysians by taking diners for a trip down memory lane back to the 1950s when the streets of Cuba were lined with classic American cars and vibrant architecture. Expect to see plenty of nostalgic Cuban elements once you step into this restaurant, be it in the form of tasteful decor, warm hospitality or an elaborate, distinguishable menu. The space is bright, airy and exudes a royalty vibe and the friendly servers look dashing in their Cuban-style suits that as a whole, provide the perfect fine-dining ambiance that is away from the hustle and bustle yet in proximity to the heart of the city.
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| The servers at Havana Dining look dashing in their Cuban-style suits |
Accomplished and Passionate Chefs
At Havana Dining, working with the best chefs is of great importance. A good chef is an individual with flairs, sixth sense and a “magical touch” - and he must possess a genuine interest in the success of the restaurant with the ability to transform any dish into a sublime experience for the diners.
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| Havana Dining serves more than just flavors - it emphasizes immensely on aesthetics as well |
Menu at Havana Dining, NU Sentral
The food menu at Havana Dining at NU Sentral focuses primarily on Cuban offerings, but it also carries subtle Mexican, Spanish, Europe and South American influences - making it an experience like no other. Chart your own culinary journey at Havana Dining by starting your meal with classic Cuban appetizers such as the Mariquitas - crispy, healthy young plantain chips served with freshly made salsa, or my personal favorite: Vieras - pan seared scallops served with romesco, salsa, potato boxty and cream bisque.
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| Mariquitas (RM45) Home Dried Plantain Chips with Pica De Gallo |
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| Mariquitas (RM45) Home Dried Plantain Chips with Pica De Gallo |
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| Rollos de Cigarro de Carne Cubana (RM38) Slow-braised pulled beef wrapped in spring roll pastry served with roasted pepper chili jam |
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| Rollos de Cigarro de Carne Cubana (RM38) Slow-braised pulled beef wrapped in spring roll pastry served with roasted pepper chili jam |
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| Vieras (RM88) Pan seared scallops served with romesco, chili lime cucumber salsa, potato boxty and cream bisque |
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| Vieras (RM88) Pan seared scallops served with romesco, chili lime cucumber salsa, potato boxty and cream bisque |
Cuba is globally known for its cigars, but at Havana Dining, you get to have a taste of their take on playful and pretty edible cigar rolls instead - loaded with the good stuff: pulled beef that's been braised for hours and a luscious chili jam. Havana Dining is pork-free, but for those want to indulge in an alcoholic drink, be sure to order from their specially curated cocktail menu. The must-try cocktail here? Dirty Dream in Havana - highly recommended by the manager, chef, bartenders and all its customers here!
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| Dirty Dream in Havana (RM35.90)Don't be fooled by its demure and feminine appeal, this is a strong cocktail concocted with imported rum |
If you are not already feeling gratified and full at this point, that means you are ready to move on to the main courses! The entrees are truthfully a tad bit pricey, but you can get more bang for your buck by choosing from the Havana Lunch Special at only RM68 with one starter and one main course, or the Havana Dinner Menu which is equally as impressive!
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| Havana Dining Lunch Special: Herb Braised Lamb Shoulder (RM68 + starter) Home mash, roasted turnip, carrot puree and lamb jus |
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| Havana Dining Lunch Special: Herb Braised Lamb Shoulder (RM68 + starter) Served with home mash, roasted turnip, carrot puree and lamb jus |
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| Havana Dining Lunch Special: Confit of Duck Leg (RM68 + starter) With Cuban Spices, Home Mash, Duck Jus |
No, you can't leave without ending your meal with a sweet note.
Churros are traditional in Spain, but they were quickly adopted by the Cubans after the colonization. Havana Dining managed to turn what may seemingly be an ordinary street snack into a dish fit for fine-dining through its artful plating and beautiful, precise embellishment of pickles and cream. On the day of our visit, they had a seasonal Chinese New Year menu which gave us the amazing opportunity to taste the chef's other inventive creations including a cheesecake and assorted jellies.
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| Churros (RM38) Chocolate ganache, strawberry pickles and cinnamon cream |
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| Desserts at Havana Dining KL, NU Sentral |
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| Desserts at Havana Dining KL, NU Sentral |
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| Desserts at Havana Dining KL, NU Sentral |
I was (and still am) pretty bummed out that I never got to try its traditional Cuban sandwich - the Emparedado de Pollo. Guess there's a reason for me to revisit this restaurant!
For the complete menu and price at Havana Dining KL, please click here.
Havana Dining KL
(Pork-free | Alcohol offerings)
Level 6 (Rooftop), NU Sentral Mall
Contact number: +6019 278 8218
Email: KL@havanadining.com
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 11am-10pm
For related articles, click here.
Malaysia
Mosques
Floating Mosque of Perlis: Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis
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| Floating Mosque of Perlis: Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
While many tourists are familiar with the world-renowned Langkawi, Perlis - a state located just 30 miles from the island - is often overlooked. As Malaysia's most northern state that borders Thailand's Satun province, this smallest state in the country has a lot more to offer beyond just delicious food, traditional morning markets and the majestic limestone hills and caves, such as the historical Gua Kelam which is rich with mining histories and artifacts. Have extra time on hand? Why not visit one of the state's most iconic mosque that is built on the sea?
Floating Mosque of Perlis: Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis
There are several must-see attractions in Perlis, such as the incredibly beautiful Al Hussain Mosque that will surely charm both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Dubbed as one of the most beautiful mosque in Malaysia, Masjid Al Hussain makes up for what it lacks in size with the most amazing unobstructed view of the Strait of Malacca.
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| The majestic Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
Built next to the Kuala Perlis Jetty, the structure extends over the sea that has helped it to earn the nickname of a floating mosque. When the tide is at its highest, the mosque appears to be drifting over the sea and this view - accompanied with the setting sun, makes the experience extra memorable and magical.
Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis is one of the greatest spots in Perlis to admire the sunset. The unique colour combination of the sky form an enchanting and rather dramatic backdrop for the mosque, while the mellow sea breeze makes the stay worthwhile and delightful. Don't forget to whip out your camera to capture the sweetest shots to bring home!
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| The breathtaking sunset at Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
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| Beautiful, unobstructed view of the Strait of Malacca at Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
One of the greatest feature of Masjid Al Hussain is its walls - instead of being painted, it is exquisitely adorned with the most beautiful selection of marble, pebbles, quartz and granite. The uniquely tactile and textured surface enhances the delicate lines on its grand gold-and-blue dome, which is constructed using aluminium and protective Polyvinylidene Diffluoride (PVDF). The mosque also takes pride in its twin minarets which are the world's first hexagonal minarets.
As the sun sets, the building comes alive and is illuminated with outdoor lights with each colour representing the different prayer times of the day. As Perlis is still relatively undeveloped compared to other states in Malaysia, you will find birds and insects such as dragonflies roaming freely around the compound. The peaceful environment allows you to feel calm and humbled as you immerse in the heavenly positive energy.
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| Soak up the amazing and calming energy at Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
How to Get to Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis, Perlis, Malaysia
As there is no direct flight to Perlis, you can hop onto a plane and land at one of the nearest airport either in Alor Setar or Langkawi.
If you are coming by car, take the North-South (PLUS) Highway and make your way to the Changlun- Kuala Perlis highway to arrive at Kuala Perlis - the second-largest town in Perlis. Alternatively, take the ETS train from KL Sentral in Kuala Lumpur and get off at Arau.
Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis
Lot 5392, Persiaran Putra Timur, 02000 Kuala Perlis, Perlis, Malaysia
Contact number: +604-985 5000, +6011-3545 1301
For related articles, click here.
Don't forget to visit the distinctive Masjid Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail during your trip to Perlis too!
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