Puduraya Terminal, 1976-2012

This article is regarding the history of Puduraya Terminal from 1976 to 2012. During these 36 years, the history of Puduraya Terminal may be divided into the opening of the terminal, transformation era and building improvements. The year 1976 marked the establishment of Puduraya Terminal in Kuala Lumpur and on 22 September 2012, the Puduraya Terminal, which initially operated as a bus station, was transformed into an Urban Transformation Centre (UTC), making it something more than just a bus station. This study employs a qualitative approach by analysing sources of documents obtained from the National Archives of Malaysia, National Library, Kuala Lumpur Library and Tuanku Bainun Library, Sultan Iris Education University. Interviews were also conducted with individuals directly and indirectly associated with Puduraya Terminal. There are three objectives to this study, the first explains the background to the establishment of Puduraya Terminal, including its initial history, the idea behind renaming it Pudu Sentral and public transportation in Kuala Lumpur. The second objective discusses the role of Puduraya Terminal as the main transportation hub of Kuala Lumpur. This section covers the nostalgia connected to Puduraya as a bus station, its role as the main transportation terminal, Kuala Lumpur development projects and Urban Transformation Centre. The third objective analyses various issues raised by the establishment of Puduraya Terminal pertaining to the development of Kuala Lumpur. This includes the increase in commercial activity, traffic congestion, growth of the service sector, community integrity facilities and national economie development. The aim of this study is to provide understanding to the community about the importance of preserving the historical value of Puduraya Terminal as part of Kuala Lumpur's identity as the capital city of Malaysia. Additionally, it conveys to the community understanding of local history and the importance of public transportation for social and economic development of the community and country.