Bagan Hailam: A Riverside World Built on Stilts
A Hidden Riverside Gem You Haven’t Heard Of
Tucked away in Klang’s Port area is Kampung Bagan Hailam — a stilt village built above the murky waters of the Klang River. Despite being just 1.5 km long, this village offers a vivid snapshot of Malaysia’s living heritage: generations of fishermen, wooden homes, everyday rituals, and the slow rhythm of life unfolding on water.
A Glimpse into History
Founded by Hainanese immigrants over a century ago, Bagan Hailam once thrived on tin mining and river trade. Today, only around 400 villagers remain, sharply down from its peak population of about 2,000.
The village sits on stilts up to 10 m above the water, connected by wooden walkways—an authentic structure that harks back to traditional riverine living.
What to See & Do
- Sunset dip at the jetty: Families wade into the river while others chat on floating platforms — the evening glow turns everything golden
- Explore narrow alleys: Discover stray dogs, artisan boats, kids’ laughter echoing through wooden homes .
- Dinner by the river: Savor fresh seafood at local hawker stalls — especially Hainanese-style grilled crab, a hidden regional specialty
- Visit Temple of the Nine Emperors: A riverside temple adorned with Chinese lanterns and lion dances during festivals
Getting There & When to Visit
Bagan Hailam is located about 45 minutes (53 km) from central Kuala Lumpur. The easiest way to get there is by car via Lebuhraya Baru Lembah Klang (E1) — just set your GPS to “Jalan Bagan Hailam, Port Klang.”
The best time to visit is in the early evening, right before sunset. That’s when the village slows down, the river catches a golden glow, and you’ll likely see children leaping into the water while elders gather on the jetty — offering the most authentic glimpse into daily life above the tide.
