Why REXKL matters
What began life as Rex Theatre in 1947 has been reborn as a thriving community and cultural hub in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s downtown. Today, REXKL blends heritage architecture with contemporary culture—hosting food pop-ups, indie markets, performances, exhibitions, and one of the city’s most photogenic bookstores.
A quick history
- 1947: Rex Theatre opens—among the earliest cinemas in Malaya.
- 1972: A major fire destroys the original theatre. It is rebuilt and later run by Golden Communications (now GSC) as a 1,100-seat single-screen cinema.
- 1990s: Upgrades include digital sound (famously for Jurassic Park in 1993).
- 2002: Cinema era ends after another fire; the building’s entertainment chapter closes.
- Today: Local architects and creatives have turned the site into REXKL, a platform for makers, artists and small businesses—preserving the bones of the old cinema while giving it new life.
What to see & do inside
BookXcess @ REXKL
A multi-level, maze-like bookstore built into the old stalls and steps of the cinema—perfect for slow browsing and photos. Expect discounted titles, art books, kids’ reads and nooks for reading.
The Back Ground (food hall) & indie F&B
An ever-evolving food hall with rotating vendors, pop-ups and small food entrepreneurs. Check REXKL social feeds for who’s in residence now.
REXPERIENCE (immersive art)
On the first floor, REXPERIENCE (RXP) hosts large-format immersive shows and installations—another way the old cinema continues telling stories, just with new tech.
Events, markets & performances
REXKL regularly runs creative markets, talks, film screenings and gigs—part of a broader push to rejuvenate downtown KL through adaptive reuse. Follow the official Instagram for the latest line-up.
Nearby for your itinerary
Petaling Street Market, Kwai Chai Hong laneways, and Central Market (Pasar Seni) are all within strolling distance—plan a half-day around this pocket of the city.
Read more about the rejuvenation of REXKL
Location: 80, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur.
