What is Ampang and Why Do Expats Live Here?
Ampang is one of the oldest and most culturally rich districts in Kuala Lumpur, stretching from the city centre fringe all the way to Ampang Jaya and beyond. It's best known for its leafy residential streets, international schools, embassies, and a unique blend of old charm and modern convenience.
While some areas of Ampang feel like classic KL — think local kopi tiams, temples, and decades-old houses others, like Ampang Hilir, are upscale and refined, home to diplomats, corporate expats, and gated communities. It’s a great choice if you want a balance between suburban peace and city access.
Why expats move to Ampang:
- Close proximity to KLCC and the city centre (10–20 mins)
- Wide choice of housing: condos, bungalows, villas
- International schools nearby and embassies in the area
- Easy access to international medical care
- Strong Korean and Japanese expat presence (great food scene too)
Ampang offers space and comfort, yet still feels deeply connected toKL’s heartbeat.
1. Housing and Condos in Ampang
Ampang has one of the most diverse housing markets in KL. You’ll find everything from sleek new condos and serviced apartments to colonial-style bungalows with massive gardens. Ampang Hilir and Embassy Row are particularly popular with expats looking for a secure and prestigious address.
Popular developments and areas:
- M City – Stylish, mid-range condos with facilities and direct retail access
- The Elements – Luxury high-rise with city views, great value per square foot
- The Residence @ The Peak – Upscale gated villas, popular with diplomats
- Duta Tropika & Duta Nusantara – Larger landed homes in guarded communities
- Tiara Ampang – Older but spacious, in a great location near Jalan Ampang
Rental price ranges (approximate):
- 2–3 bedroom condos: RM 3,000 – RM 6,500/month
- Townhouses and semi-Ds: RM 5,000 – RM 10,000/month
- Luxury bungalows and villas: RM 12,000 and up
Most expats moving with families prefer the spaciousness and security of gated housing, while singles or couples often opt for condos nearLRT stations or international schools.
2. Schools and Education in Ampang
Ampang is very well-served by international schools, with multiple top-tier institutions located within a 10–20 minute drive.
Key international schools:
- The International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL) – American curriculum with full IB Diploma, excellent reputation, and located right in Ampang Hilir.
- Sayfol International School – Affordable British curriculum option, multicultural, with long history in KL.
- Fairview International School – Offers the full IB programme from PYP to DP. About 15–20 mins away in Wangsa Maju.
Preschools and early learning centres:
- The Children’s House (Montessori) – Popular expat option with branches near Ampang Hilir.
- Julia Gabriel Centre – Expressive arts-based early learning, with great English immersion.
- Baby Atelier – Bilingual preschool with strong enrichment activities.
Transport:
Many schools offer door-to-door transport. Walking is possible for ISKL residents, especially those in The Raintree, The Mews or The Elements.
3. Transport and Connectivity
Ampang is extremely well connected by both public transport and major roads, making it easy to get around the city or commute.
Public transport options:
- LRT (Ampang Line) – Stations include Ampang, Cahaya, and Cempaka
- MRT (Putrajaya Line) – Connects to TRX, Bukit Bintang, and Tun Razak Exchange
- Grab and taxis – Widely available, usually a 5–10 minute wait
Driving distances from Ampang:
- KLCC: 10–15 minutes
- Bukit Bintang: 15 minutes
- Mont Kiara: 25 minutes
- KLIA: 45–60 minutes via MEX or DUKE highways
Parking is manageable in most residential areas, and newer condo buildings include secure parking bays.
4. Healthcare Near Ampang
Healthcare in Ampang is top-notch, with multiple hospitals offering specialist care, emergency services, and general health check-ups.
Major hospitals used by expats:
- Gleneagles Kuala Lumpur – Highly rated full-service hospital. Specialists in cardiology, paediatrics, and internal medicine.
- HSC Medical Centre – Smaller but premium medical centre with fast diagnostics and English-speaking staff.
- Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital – Good value private hospital with maternity, surgery, and general practice.
Local clinics:
- Klinik Mediviron Ampang – General practitioner care and vaccinations
- Poliklinik Taglink – Walk-in clinic with multilingual staff
- HealthLane Family Pharmacy – Medication, screenings, and basic check-ups
Expats are advised to carry international health insurance. Plans from Cigna, Allianz, and AIA are widely accepted.
5. Grocery Stores and Daily Shopping
Whether you're cooking Korean BBQ at home or shopping for organic snacks, Ampang has you covered.
Supermarkets:
- Village Grocer @ M City – Upscale, clean, and well-stocked with imported products
- Jaya Grocer @ Great Eastern Mall – Central location and good mix of local and international goods
- Hero Market @ Ampang Point – More affordable, great for local brands
Specialty and convenience stores:
- K Market (Korean grocer) – Fantastic range of Korean ingredients, snacks, and household items
- AEON Big – Huge hypermarket just off Jalan Ampang
- FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, and myNEWS – Found in most residential areas
Online delivery options:
- HappyFresh (for Village Grocer, Jaya Grocer)
- GrabMart (fast delivery for snacks and basics)
- Redtick and Potboy (great for bulk buying)
6. Restaurants and Cafés
Ampang is one of the best places in KL for authentic Korean food, classic Malaysian eats, and hidden café gems.
Korean and Japanese cuisine:
- Gangnam88 – Vibrant BBQ joint with great sides and soju
- Da On Korean BBQ – Sleek, authentic, and popular with expats
- Ichiban Ramen – Affordable comfort food with Japanese flair
Local favourites:
- Restoran Rebung by Chef Ismail – Buffet-style Malay cuisine in a traditional setting
- Bismillah Nasi Kandar – Legendary Indian Muslim dishes
- Foong Foong Yong Tau Foo – KL-famous Chinese stuffed tofu in Ampang Jaya
Cafés and brunch spots:
- Cafe Kucing (Cat Café) – For families and cat lovers
- 28 Fireplace – Australian-style brunch café with fantastic coffee
- The Owls Café – Trendy desserts and espresso
Many cafés here are pet-friendly and offer outdoor seating, especially in the Ampang Hilir and Taman TAR areas.
7. Fitness and Nature
Ampang makes it easy to stay active — indoors and outdoors.
Gyms and fitness centers:
- Anytime Fitness @ M City – 24/7 gym with cardio and weight training
- Fitness First @ The Intermark – Premium gym with group classes and spa
- KOA Fitness (women-only gym) – Friendly, supportive and boutique-style
Outdoor activities and parks:
- Taman TAR Forest Trail – Popular hiking route, safe and well maintained
- Ampang Hilir Lake Park – Great for jogs, stroller walks, and casual cycling
- Bukit Indah Park – A local green space with open exercise zones and shade trees
8. Lifestyle and Community in Ampang
Ampang has one of KL’s most established and international expat communities. You’ll find families from South Korea, Japan, Europe and theMiddle East living side by side with long-time Malaysian residents.
What to expect from life here:
- Regular cultural events at embassies and international schools
- Weekend markets, Korean festivals, and art events
- Laid-back cafés and walkable pockets near Great Eastern Mall and ISKL
- Dog-friendly spaces and a surprising number of boutique pet stores
Ampang is more residential than trendy but it’s comfortable, convenient, and full of personality.
