Today, Idea Live Arena officially opened its doors at 3 Damansara, marking a major milestone for Malaysia’s entertainment scene. Tan Mei Phing, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), officiated the much-anticipated event. Meanwhile, Dato’ Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, Chief Executive Officer of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), was also in attendance. The grand launch attracted a vibrant crowd of dignitaries, industry leaders, and music fans, setting a lively tone for the day.
Built with a RM40 million investment, the arena offers seating for 5,000 guests, or space for 7,000 in mixed seating and standing formats. Renovations, structural upgrades, and the latest technical systems brought the venue to life. Furthermore, the arena features top-tier sound, lighting, and visual technology, ensuring every event delivers a world-class experience. Additional facilities, such as a spacious foyer, fully equipped dressing rooms, and five luxurious VIP boxes, enhance both comfort and exclusivity for performers and distinguished guests.
Highlight of the event
The opening ceremony itself was a stunning showcase. Malaysia’s beloved jazz legend, Dato’ Sheila Majid, took the stage and delivered a soulful, high-energy performance. Her timeless hits, paired with the arena’s superior acoustics and visuals, thrilled the audience and demonstrated the venue’s impressive capabilities. Clearly, Idea Live Arena fills a crucial gap in Malaysia’s entertainment market by providing a modern, all-weather venue for both international and local acts.
Moreover, the launch arrives at a strategic time. As Malaysia intensifies efforts to boost tourism and revitalize urban centers, the arena is set to inject new energy into Petaling Jaya. Located inside the bustling 3 Damansara mall, the venue is expected to spark economic growth through increased foot traffic and visitor spending. Consequently, the surrounding area will likely evolve into a thriving destination for residents, tourists, and businesses alike.
Idea Live is crucial to Malaysia Entertainment Industry
During his speech, Azmir highlighted the arena’s broader importance. “Facilities like this are crucial to our goal of positioning Malaysia as a creative industry hub. Idea Live Arena not only welcomes international productions but also provides local talents — from filmmakers to musicians — a global stage to shine,” he said.
In addition, Azmir introduced a key new initiative. Starting 15 May 2025, the Ministry of Communications will implement the Concert and Event in Malaysia Incentives (CEMI). This program 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 artists. As part of a wider plan to fuel Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026), CEMI is expected to accelerate Malaysia’s growth as a premier entertainment destination.
Looking ahead, Idea Live Arena will strengthen Malaysia’s global reputation. By offering a cutting-edge venue for concerts, shows, and cultural events, it will draw audiences from across the region and beyond. More importantly, it will play a vital role in achieving the ambitious goals set for VM2026.
With its strategic location, world-class facilities, and dynamic programming, Idea Live Arena is ready to redefine Malaysia’s entertainment landscape — just in time for a new chapter in the nation’s tourism and creative industries.
About Idea Live Arena
Idea Live Arena, located within 3 Damansara in Petaling Jaya, stands as Malaysia’s largest indoor arena within a shopping mall and the nation’s second-largest overall. It accommodates 5,000 seated guests or 7,000 attendees in a combination of seated and standing arrangements. The state-of-the-art arena features superior sound, lighting, and visual equipment, delivering world-class experiences for concerts, live performances, and large-scale events. Furthermore, it offers a spacious reception foyer, fully equipped dressing rooms, and five luxurious VIP boxes, ensuring comfort for performers and high-profile guests.
Strategically positioned to meet the growing demand for modern indoor venues, Idea Live Arena aims to elevate Malaysia’s entertainment and tourism sectors. Its versatile design hosts a wide range of events, from music concerts and comedy shows to corporate functions and cultural festivals. Moreover, the arena promises to revitalize Petaling Jaya by driving economic growth through increased foot traffic and tourism. By providing a premier platform for both international and local artists, Idea Live Arena strengthens Malaysia’s status as a leading destination for world-class entertainment and cultural experiences.
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