At Sasana Kijang on Jalan Dato Onn, this free museum explores Malaysian money, banking and economic history across six galleries. Follow the story of currency from objects such as shells and ingots to coins and notes, then try interactive exhibits on finance and economics. The Children’s Gallery includes a tunnel lined with Malaysian notes, while the Art Gallery displays paintings, prints and sculptures by Malaysian and ASEAN artists. A striking spiral staircase links the museum’s floors and gives the modern building a memorable focal point.
Six galleries on money, banking and art
The museum at Sasana Kijang is organised around six permanent galleries: Children’s, Bank Negara Malaysia, Economics, Islamic Finance, Numismatics and Art. Together, they cover the development of money and the Malaysian economy, the central bank’s role, and the country’s financial history. The displays also touch on ASEAN art and the cultural history of currency.
The galleries make room for different kinds of visits. You can follow the history of coins and notes, spend time with interactive displays, or focus on the art collection. Families can add hands-on activities in the Children’s Gallery to a visit centred on the museum’s financial themes.
From shells and ingots to Malaysian currency
The Numismatics Gallery follows money through different forms and periods. Its displays include old Malaysian currency, rare coins and foreign money. They also show objects such as shells, silver bars and ingots that were used as currency in earlier times. Interactive screens accompany some of the displays, including material about historic coins.
The wider story reaches from early forms of exchange to contemporary money, including digital currency. In the Bank Negara Malaysia and Economics galleries, exhibits connect that history to the development of Malaysia’s economy and the central bank. The displays use multimedia and interactive activities to explain financial topics.
Islamic finance and art
The Islamic Finance Gallery introduces a financial system guided by Sharia law. It gives the museum a dedicated space for a subject that is distinct from its currency and economics displays.
The Art Gallery presents works from the Central Bank of Malaysia’s collection on a rotating basis. Paintings, prints and sculptures include works by Malaysian artists from early figures such as Mohd Hoessein Enas, Yong Mun Sen, Chuah Thean Teng, Syed Ahmad Jamal and Ibrahim Hussein through to younger artists. The collection also includes Malaysian and ASEAN works. Exhibitions change, so the works on display can differ between visits.
The Children’s Gallery and the building
The Children’s Gallery uses interactive activities to introduce money and basic financial ideas. Its exhibits include a tunnel made with Malaysian notes, as well as activities where children can explore the cost of everyday items. A pretend bank and ATM give younger visitors another way to engage with the subject.
The museum occupies Sasana Kijang, a modern glass building with bright, spacious galleries. Its spiral staircase, known as the Nautilus Staircase, rises from the lobby and connects the floors. The building’s design makes the staircase a prominent feature as you move between exhibitions.
FAQ
Is Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery free?
Yes. The museum has free admission.
How long should I spend at the museum?
Plan for about three hours to explore the galleries.
What days is the museum open?
It is open Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays. The listed visiting hours are 10am to 5pm.
Are bags allowed inside?
Bags are not allowed inside. You can use a locker, which requires a refundable cash deposit.
