Idea Live Arena opens at 3 Damansara Mall

Malaysia’s entertainment and tourism industries received a major boost today with the grand opening of Idea Live Arena, the nation’s largest indoor arena within a shopping mall and the second-largest overall. The much-anticipated venue, located within 3 Damansara Mall, was officially launched by Tan Mei Phing, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), in a vibrant ceremony attended by dignitaries, industry leaders, and music enthusiasts.

Also gracing the occasion was Dato’ Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, Chief Executive Officer of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), who underscored the arena’s significance in elevating Malaysia’s creative and entertainment sectors. The launch signals a key milestone as the country prepares for an expected tourism boom leading up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026).

RM40 million investment

Idea Live Arena’s development represents a bold RM40 million investment focused on major renovations, structural upgrades, and the installation of cutting-edge technical systems. Designed to accommodate 5,000 seated guests or up to 7,000 attendees in flexible arrangements, the arena is poised to host a wide range of concerts, live performances, and large-scale events.

The venue boasts world-class sound, lighting, and visual systems, along with a spacious reception foyer, fully equipped dressing rooms, and five luxurious VIP boxes. These features ensure a seamless and exclusive experience for performers and attendees alike, setting a new standard for indoor entertainment facilities in Malaysia.

Highlighting the arena’s capabilities, Malaysia’s jazz legend Dato’ Sheila Majid delivered a breathtaking performance during the opening, captivating the crowd and showcasing the venue’s superior acoustics and visual prowess. Her soulful renditions of classic hits not only celebrated the launch but also demonstrated the arena’s readiness to host world-class acts.

A strategic boost for urban revitalization

Strategically situated within the bustling 3 Damansara Mall, Idea Live Arena is expected to be a catalyst for urban revitalization in Petaling Jaya. The venue is poised to inject new energy into the local economy, drawing increased foot traffic and tourism that will benefit surrounding businesses, retail outlets, and hospitality sectors.

Speaking during the launch, Dato’ Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib said, “Facilities like this are vital to our mission of positioning Malaysia as a regional hub for the creative industries. Idea Live Arena not only welcomes international productions but also creates opportunities for our local talent, from filmmakers and musicians to cultural performers, to shine on a world-class stage.”

The arena’s strategic positioning is aligned with national efforts to stimulate urban vibrancy, offering a year-round schedule of high-profile events that will attract both Malaysians and international visitors.

Drive entertainment industry forward

In a further show of support for Malaysia’s burgeoning live event scene, Dato’ Azmir announced the upcoming launch of a new government initiative, the Concert and Event in Malaysia Incentives (CEMI). Effective from 15 May 2025, CEMI will allocate RM10 million annually to support large-scale events that attract more than 15,000 attendees and feature a mix of local and international talent.

“The initiative is part of a broader effort to position Malaysia as a premier entertainment hub and fuel the success of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026),” Dato’ Azmir noted. This incentive is expected to encourage more event organizers to choose Malaysia as a destination, thereby boosting tourism numbers, creating jobs, and enhancing Malaysia’s global profile.

With the government’s backing, the opening of Idea Live Arena could not have come at a better time, providing the infrastructure needed to meet growing demand for large-scale entertainment venues in the region.

Visit Malaysia Year 2026

As Malaysia accelerates preparations for VM2026, Idea Live Arena is set to play a central role in delivering unforgettable experiences to millions of visitors. By offering an advanced, versatile, and internationally competitive venue, Malaysia strengthens its bid to become a top destination for entertainment tourism.

The opening of Idea Live Arena not only fills a long-standing gap in Malaysia’s event infrastructure but also amplifies the country’s commitment to showcasing its cultural and creative talents on a global stage. With a packed calendar of concerts, festivals, and live shows anticipated in the lead-up to VM2026, Idea Live Arena is poised to redefine Malaysia’s entertainment landscape and solidify its standing as a regional powerhouse for live events.