For more than three decades, Galeri PETRONAS has played an important role in Malaysia’s contemporary art scene, providing a platform for Malaysian artists while introducing audiences to exhibitions, ideas, and artistic practices from Malaysia and beyond.
Now, the gallery is beginning an entirely new chapter.
In August 2026, Galeri PETRONAS moved from its long-time home at Suria KLCC to Ombak KLCC, the new cultural and lifestyle destination within the wider Kuala Lumpur City Centre precinct.
The relocation is much more than a change of address. Its new home has been conceived as a larger cultural destination where exhibitions, the PETRONAS Art Collection, public programmes, creative exchanges, and community engagement can come together.
Visitors can already experience The First Glimpse, a preview of the new Galeri PETRONAS that opened on 21 August 2026. However, the gallery is being introduced progressively, with its full opening expected by the end of 2027.
Whether you’re interested in Malaysian contemporary art, looking for things to do around KLCC, or simply curious about one of Kuala Lumpur’s newest cultural spaces, here’s everything you need to know about Galeri PETRONAS.
What Is Galeri PETRONAS?
Galeri PETRONAS is a contemporary art institution established by PETRONAS to promote, develop, and preserve contemporary art in Malaysia.
Since its establishment in 1992, the gallery has provided an important platform for Malaysian and international artists while encouraging greater public engagement with visual art.
Over more than three decades, nearly two million visitors have experienced its exhibitions and public programmes.
The gallery also oversees the PETRONAS Art Collection, one of Malaysia’s most significant corporate art collections, which has been developed since the early 1990s.
Through exhibitions, collaborations, publications, and cultural programmes, Galeri PETRONAS has contributed considerably to the development and documentation of contemporary Malaysian art.
The History of Galeri PETRONAS
The Beginning at Dayabumi Complex
Galeri PETRONAS was established on 12 August 1992, with its first home located at Dayabumi Complex.
The location is historically significant. Before the construction of the PETRONAS Twin Towers, Dayabumi served as the headquarters of PETRONAS and was one of Kuala Lumpur’s most recognisable modern skyscrapers.
The establishment of the gallery reflected PETRONAS’ wider commitment to supporting Malaysian arts and culture alongside the country’s economic development.
If you’re interested in this chapter of Kuala Lumpur’s architectural history, our guide to Dayabumi Complex explores the building’s distinctive Islamic-inspired architecture and its importance to the city’s transformation during the 1980s.
Moving to KLCC
Another major chapter began in 1998, when Galeri PETRONAS relocated to Suria KLCC within the newly developed Kuala Lumpur City Centre.
The move placed the gallery inside one of Malaysia’s most prominent developments, beneath the Petronas Twin Towers.
Its purpose-designed gallery provided significantly more space and helped introduce contemporary art to the millions of people visiting KLCC.
For more than two decades, Galeri PETRONAS became part of the cultural identity of the complex alongside Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, Suria KLCC, and the Twin Towers themselves.
The Closure in 2021
In May 2021, Galeri PETRONAS ceased operating as a public gallery following a realignment of its operating model during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, this did not mean that PETRONAS abandoned its involvement in the arts.
The PETRONAS Art Collection continued to be maintained, while artworks remained available for loans, programmes, and other cultural initiatives.
Behind the scenes, the collection and institution continued evolving.
That quieter period would eventually lead to a major rethink of what Galeri PETRONAS could become.
Galeri PETRONAS Moves to Ombak KLCC
In August 2026, Galeri PETRONAS announced its next major chapter: a relocation to Ombak KLCC.
Situated within the wider KLCC precinct, Ombak KLCC has been conceived as a new destination bringing together art, culture, retail, dining, and contemporary city life.
Galeri PETRONAS is one of its anchor tenants.
The new location represents a significant expansion of the gallery’s ambitions, providing greater opportunities for exhibitions, collaboration, cultural exchange, community programmes, and public access to the PETRONAS Art Collection.
It also gives Galeri PETRONAS a much more prominent role as a cultural destination in its own right rather than simply an exhibition space inside a shopping centre.
For more on the development itself, read our complete guide to Ombak KLCC, including its architecture, shops, restaurants, and what visitors can expect from this new addition to KLCC.
The First Glimpse: Previewing the New Galeri PETRONAS
You don’t have to wait until 2027 to experience the new gallery.
On 21 August 2026, Galeri PETRONAS opened The First Glimpse on the Ground Floor of Ombak KLCC.
As its name suggests, this is a preview rather than the completed Galeri PETRONAS experience.
The First Glimpse allows visitors to encounter the gallery’s evolving new identity while the larger space continues to open progressively.
This phased approach means that visitors coming during 2026 and 2027 should expect the Galeri PETRONAS experience to evolve as additional areas and programmes are introduced.
The full gallery is expected to be operational by the end of 2027.
What Will the New Galeri PETRONAS Be Like?
The move to Ombak KLCC provides Galeri PETRONAS with the opportunity to rethink how visitors experience art.
Rather than functioning solely as rooms for displaying artworks, the new gallery is intended to become a place for encounters, conversations, creative exchange, and engagement between artists and the wider public.
A Multi-Level Cultural Destination
The new Galeri PETRONAS extends across multiple levels of Ombak KLCC, giving the institution considerably more room to develop exhibitions and complementary cultural experiences.
The larger footprint also creates opportunities for different exhibitions and programmes to operate simultaneously.
A Cantilevered Gallery
One of the most distinctive architectural elements of the new gallery is its cantilevered design.
Extending from Ombak KLCC, the gallery creates a physical connection between art and the surrounding city while giving the institution a much stronger architectural presence.
The design complements Ombak KLCC itself, whose architecture takes inspiration from the movement and fluidity of water.
Greater Access to the PETRONAS Art Collection
One of the most important aspects of the new gallery is the opportunity for greater public access to the PETRONAS Art Collection.
Developed over several decades, the collection represents an important record of Malaysian artistic development.
The expanded gallery creates more opportunities for works from the collection to be interpreted, displayed, and encountered by the public.
What to See and Do at Galeri PETRONAS
As Galeri PETRONAS is currently undergoing its phased opening, the exact visitor experience will continue to develop.
However, several elements are expected to define the new institution.
Explore The First Glimpse
For visitors arriving during the initial phase, The First Glimpse provides the introduction to the new Galeri PETRONAS.
Rather than expecting the completed institution, consider this an opportunity to see the gallery during an interesting moment of transition as its new identity gradually takes shape.
Discover Malaysian Contemporary Art
Supporting Malaysian contemporary art has been central to Galeri PETRONAS since its establishment.
Its exhibitions have historically provided platforms for established and emerging artists while exploring subjects connected to Malaysian society, identity, history, culture, and contemporary life.
Discover the PETRONAS Art Collection
The PETRONAS Art Collection is one of the institution’s most important assets.
As the new gallery develops, visitors can expect greater opportunities to encounter artworks from a collection assembled over more than three decades.
Attend Exhibitions and Cultural Programmes
Galeri PETRONAS has traditionally organised more than conventional exhibitions.
Talks, educational activities, collaborations, publications, and other public programmes have formed an important part of its role within Malaysia’s arts ecosystem.
The larger Ombak KLCC location creates even greater potential for these programmes.
Why the Return of Galeri PETRONAS Matters
The reopening represents something bigger than the return of a familiar Kuala Lumpur gallery.
Malaysia’s contemporary art ecosystem depends on a combination of artists, independent galleries, commercial galleries, museums, collectors, corporations, educational institutions, and public audiences.
Galeri PETRONAS occupies an unusual position within this ecosystem because it combines the resources of a major Malaysian corporation with a longstanding commitment to collecting and exhibiting art.
Its return creates another major platform through which contemporary Malaysian art can reach both domestic and international audiences.
Its location within KLCC is equally significant.
Visitors who may initially arrive to see the Petronas Twin Towers, shop at Suria KLCC, walk through KLCC Park, or explore Ombak KLCC can now encounter contemporary Malaysian art within the same precinct.
That accessibility could introduce entirely new audiences to the country’s visual arts.
Is Galeri PETRONAS Free to Visit?
Admission arrangements can vary according to exhibitions, programmes, and different stages of the gallery’s phased opening.
Visitors should therefore check the latest ticket information before arriving rather than assuming that every exhibition or programme follows the same admission policy.
The gallery’s official website provides the latest information regarding exhibitions, admission, and visiting arrangements.
Galeri PETRONAS Opening Hours
During the current opening phase, Galeri PETRONAS generally operates:
Tuesday to Friday: 10:00am – 6:00pm
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00am – 6:30pm
Monday: Closed
The gallery may also close on selected public holidays, while operating hours can change during the First Glimpse preview period.
Always check the latest information before making a dedicated trip.
Where Is the New Galeri PETRONAS?
Galeri PETRONAS is now located at:
Plaza Ombak KLCC
20, Persiaran KLCC
Kuala Lumpur City Centre
50088 Kuala Lumpur
The gallery occupies spaces within Ombak KLCC and is no longer located within its former gallery space at Suria KLCC.
This distinction is particularly important for returning visitors who remember visiting Galeri PETRONAS at Suria KLCC.
How to Get to Galeri PETRONAS
By MRT
One of the easiest ways to reach the new gallery is via Persiaran KLCC MRT Station on the Putrajaya Line, which provides convenient access to Ombak KLCC.
From KLCC LRT Station
Visitors travelling on the Kelana Jaya Line can alight at KLCC LRT Station and walk through the wider KLCC precinct towards Ombak KLCC.
The route also makes it easy to combine your gallery visit with Suria KLCC, the Petronas Twin Towers, and KLCC Park.
Our Kuala Lumpur LRT, MRT and Monorail guide explains the city’s rail network in greater detail if you’re travelling from elsewhere in Greater Kuala Lumpur.
By Grab or Taxi
Grab and taxis are another convenient option, particularly for visitors unfamiliar with the KLCC precinct.
Use Ombak KLCC or Galeri PETRONAS as your destination rather than the gallery’s former Suria KLCC location.
Best Time to Visit Galeri PETRONAS
Weekday mornings are likely to provide the quietest experience, particularly for visitors who want more time to appreciate the artworks.
Late afternoons can also work particularly well because you can visit the gallery before continuing outside to KLCC Park and the Petronas Twin Towers as the city lights begin appearing.
Because Galeri PETRONAS is indoors, it is also an excellent option during Kuala Lumpur’s frequent afternoon rain.
If the weather changes your sightseeing plans, our guide to rainy-day activities in Kuala Lumpur includes more museums, galleries, shopping destinations, and indoor attractions around the city.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Galeri PETRONAS
One of the biggest advantages of the gallery’s new home is its location within the KLCC precinct.
Ombak KLCC
Don’t leave immediately after visiting the gallery. Ombak KLCC itself is one of Kuala Lumpur’s newest lifestyle destinations, combining architecture, retail, restaurants, culture, and public spaces within the wider KLCC development.
Food enthusiasts can also explore our guide to what to eat at Ombak KLCC, which covers the restaurants and cafés opening within the development.
Petronas Twin Towers
No visit to KLCC is complete without seeing the Petronas Twin Towers. Once the world’s tallest buildings, the towers remain Malaysia’s most internationally recognisable architectural landmark and are only a short walk from the gallery.
KLCC Park
Located beside the gallery’s new home, KLCC Park provides 50 acres of landscaped greenery in the middle of Kuala Lumpur. Its walking paths, lake, children’s facilities, and skyline views make it an excellent complement to an indoor gallery visit.
Suria KLCC
The former home of Galeri PETRONAS remains one of Kuala Lumpur’s leading shopping destinations. Suria KLCCcombines international brands, restaurants, entertainment, and direct access to several major KLCC attractions.
Petrosains, The Discovery Centre
Families can combine art with science at Petrosains, an interactive science discovery centre inside Suria KLCC with hands-on exhibitions exploring science, technology, energy, and the natural world.
Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS
Another important part of PETRONAS’ contribution to Malaysian culture, Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS is home to the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra and one of the country’s premier venues for classical and contemporary musical performances.
Saloma Link
Continue beyond KLCC towards Saloma Link, the colourful pedestrian bridge connecting the KLCC area with Kampung Baru. It is particularly attractive after dark and provides excellent views towards the surrounding skyline.
A Half-Day Art and Culture Itinerary Around KLCC
The arrival of Galeri PETRONAS at Ombak KLCC makes it possible to experience a more cultural side of a district usually associated with skyscrapers and shopping.
Begin at Galeri PETRONAS, allowing around one to two hours depending on the exhibition.
Explore the rest of Ombak KLCC before walking through KLCC Park towards the Petronas Twin Towers.
From there, visit Suria KLCC or Petrosains before stopping for lunch or dinner around the precinct.
If you’re staying until evening, walk towards Saloma Link and cross into Kampung Baru, where you can experience one of Kuala Lumpur’s most fascinating contrasts: a traditional Malay neighbourhood sitting directly beside the city’s modern skyline.
This itinerary works particularly well for returning visitors who want to experience KLCC beyond simply photographing the Twin Towers.
Is Galeri PETRONAS Worth Visiting?
Yes—particularly now.
Galeri PETRONAS has always been an important institution within Malaysia’s contemporary art landscape, but its move to Ombak KLCC gives visitors an opportunity to witness the beginning of an entirely new chapter.
The gallery also fills an interesting gap in the KLCC experience.
The district already offers architecture, shopping, dining, science, music, parks, and entertainment. The expanded Galeri PETRONAS adds a stronger visual arts component to that mix.
For art enthusiasts, it provides access to Malaysian contemporary art and the significant PETRONAS Art Collection.
For casual visitors, its location makes contemporary art easy to incorporate into an ordinary day exploring KLCC.
And during 2026 and 2027, there is another reason to visit: the institution itself is evolving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Galeri PETRONAS
Where is Galeri PETRONAS now?
Galeri PETRONAS has relocated to Ombak KLCC at 20 Persiaran KLCC, within the Kuala Lumpur City Centre precinct.
Is Galeri PETRONAS still at Suria KLCC?
No. Galeri PETRONAS has moved from its former space at Suria KLCC to Ombak KLCC.
When did Galeri PETRONAS at Ombak KLCC open?
The First Glimpse preview opened on 21 August 2026, marking the beginning of the gallery’s phased opening at Ombak KLCC.
Is the entire new Galeri PETRONAS open?
Not yet. The gallery is opening progressively. The First Glimpse provides a preview of its new home, while full operations are expected by the end of 2027.
When was Galeri PETRONAS established?
Galeri PETRONAS was established on 12 August 1992 at Dayabumi Complex before moving to KLCC in 1998.
Why did Galeri PETRONAS close?
Its public gallery operation ceased in 2021 following an operating-model realignment associated with changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The institution continued caring for and developing its collection during the intervening period.
What can you see at Galeri PETRONAS?
Visitors can encounter contemporary art, exhibitions, and works connected to the PETRONAS Art Collection. The programme will continue expanding as the new gallery progresses towards full operation.
What is the nearest MRT station?
Persiaran KLCC MRT Station on the Putrajaya Line provides convenient access to Ombak KLCC and the new Galeri PETRONAS.
How long should you spend at Galeri PETRONAS?
Allow around one to two hours for the gallery itself, depending on the exhibitions available. Consider spending at least half a day if you’re also exploring Ombak KLCC, KLCC Park, Suria KLCC, and the Petronas Twin Towers.
Is Galeri PETRONAS worth visiting with children?
It can be, particularly when exhibitions or educational programmes are suitable for younger audiences. Families can easily combine the visit with nearby KLCC Park and Petrosains.
The story of Galeri PETRONAS mirrors several chapters of modern Kuala Lumpur itself.
It began at Dayabumi Complex during an era when Kuala Lumpur was rapidly modernising, moved beneath the newly completed Petronas Twin Towers as KLCC emerged in the late 1990s, and has now entered another chapter at Ombak KLCC.
Its latest move is particularly significant.
Instead of simply reopening the gallery that visitors once knew, Galeri PETRONAS is being reimagined as a larger cultural destination built around art, conversation, collaboration, and public engagement.
For now, The First Glimpse provides exactly that—a first look at what is coming.
As additional spaces progressively open towards the end of 2027, Galeri PETRONAS has the potential to become not only one of the best art galleries in Kuala Lumpur, but an important cultural anchor for the wider KLCC precinct.
If you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur in the meantime, it is already worth adding to your itinerary—particularly alongside Ombak KLCC, KLCC Park, and the Petronas Twin Towers.
