Remember the good old days of catching an express bus from Puduraya, Kuala Lumpur? Crowded waiting areas, roaring bus engines, passengers dragging their luggage everywhere, and everyone rushing to find their departure platforms. It was chaotic, noisy, and sometimes frustrating — but somehow, that was part of the adventure!
Related Links: Kwai Chai Hong KL: History, Murals & Chinatown Guide, Petaling Street Kuala Lumpur: Chinatown Food and Shopping, 9 Must-Try Food Stalls at ICC Pudu, Kuala Lumpur Food Guide, Jinjang Food Court Review: What to Eat & Where, Delicious Breakfast at Kedai Makanan Sky – Jalan Genting Klang, Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, Hidden Hawker Gem in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur – Must-Try Food
Fast-forward to 2026, and Kuala Lumpur has introduced something rather different — LaLaport Transportation Hub, where catching a bus can also mean enjoying a meal, shopping for groceries, or sipping coffee before departure.
Goodbye, Old Puduraya? Not Quite!
Opened in 1976, Puduraya was once Kuala Lumpur’s busiest long-distance bus terminal, connecting travellers to destinations across Peninsular Malaysia.
For decades, it was the starting point for countless journeys, especially for students returning home, families heading on holidays, and Singaporeans travelling around Malaysia.
Following a major refurbishment in 2011, Puduraya was renamed Pudu Sentral. With the opening of Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS), many express bus services were gradually relocated, although Pudu Sentral continues operating selected services today.
Hello, LaLaport Transportation Hub!
Officially opened on 16 July 2026, the new LaLaport Transportation Hub is located at Level LG1, East Atrium of LaLaport BBCC, right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
Unlike traditional bus terminals, this modern facility integrates express bus services with a full-fledged shopping mall.
Featuring 11 bus bays, air-conditioned waiting lounges, ticketing facilities, digital departure information, luggage lockers and Wi-Fi, the hub offers a much more comfortable experience.
Its main functions include express coach services, particularly between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, airport transfers to KLIA Terminals 1 and 2, and connections to surrounding public transport services.
Interestingly, LaLaport BBCC occupies the former Pudu Prison site, transforming a historic location into a modern shopping, lifestyle and transportation destination.
Catching a Bus? Why Not Go Makan First!
Here’s where LaLaport gets interesting!
During our visit, we spotted Jaya Grocer, ParaThai, Koong Woh Tong and Dee Coffee, among other dining and shopping options.
Imagine enjoying a proper Thai meal, browsing supermarket snacks, or grabbing your favourite coffee before heading to your bus platform. Certainly a different experience from the hustle and bustle of old Puduraya!
Even better, the hub is conveniently connected to Hang Tuah LRT and Monorail Station, making it accessible without relying entirely on taxis.
Old Memories, New Journeys
Of course, LaLaport isn’t a direct replacement for Puduraya. Both represent different chapters of KL’s transport history.
Puduraya was all about getting you to your destination. LaLaport wants you to enjoy the journey before it even begins!
Personally, we like the convenience of combining shopping, dining and bus travel under one roof.
But for those who grew up travelling through old Puduraya, its unmistakable atmosphere will always hold a special place in their memories.
Which would you prefer — the nostalgic old Puduraya or the modern LaLaport Transportation Hub?
📍 LaLaport Transportation Hub — Level LG1, East Atrium, LaLaport BBCC, Jalan Hang Tuah, Kuala Lumpur.
🚆 Nearest Station: Hang Tuah LRT / Monorail.
