Asia's biggest malls are reshaping shopping, work and recreation
Large-scale shopping malls in Southeast Asia are evolving into 'third places' that serve as social, recreational, and commercial hubs for the growing middle class. Unlike the declining mall culture in the US, these complexes are becoming essential urban infrastructure for daily life.
Why it matters
Understanding the shift in retail and urban planning in Southeast Asia provides insight into global consumer behavior and the future of commercial real estate.
BURSA SGX Home HO CHI MINH CITY/KUALA LUMPUR (June 12): Prasana Rao thinks nothing of spending 12 hours at a stretch in her favourite mall near Kuala Lumpur. With her newborn baby and as many as 14 family members in tow, she often heads to IOI City Mall for a day of “retailtainment”, drawn by the climate-controlled comfort that offers respite from Malaysia’s heat. The sprawling complex features an Olympic-sized ice rink, an indoor farm, late-night cinemas, pickleball and badminton courts, and more than 800 stores.
The article provides a descriptive, objective analysis of urban development trends without taking a political stance.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in