Many of us know Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital, but have you heard of the country’s “other” principal city? Let’s explore Putrajaya, Malaysia’s second capital hidden from plain sight.

There, we can see its modern architecture filled with traditional Islamic design located downtown. Its shiny skyscrapers have Arabesque patterns with geometric or floral decorations. Putrajaya’s goal was to have 350,000 residents but until today, it remains a spacious city with only 120,000 locals. Its primary feature, however, is its greenery. 37% of Putrajaya’s land is dedicated to parks and public spaces. The Putrajaya Botanical Garden houses more than 700 groups of tropical plants and the Rimba Alam Park is home to a successfully growing city-based lush forest filled with plants native to the nearby jungles. Additionally, the capital has 10 shared gardens where residents can grow fruits and vegetables.

Putrajaya Corporation’s Communications Director Tengku Aina Ismail said that Putrajaya hopes to be a vital eco-tourism destination. The Malaysian government is relying on its parks and greenery to attract more visitors once the coronavirus pandemic passes. “It’s not a perfect city, it could always be better,” says Ramakrishna, a resident from Kuala Lumpur. “But to make that city from nothing, just out of some old palm plantations, it’s pretty amazing. Hopefully, more tourists come and see what Malaysia managed to achieve there. It’s something special.”