Ann Marie Chandy | 11 July 2025
“The name ‘Antara’ reflects our commitment to providing an interlude of peace and well-being amidst the hustle and bustle of modern living,” says director Rubini Vijayasuriar. “Derived from the Malay word meaning ‘between’ or ‘among,’ it embodies the perfect balance and harmony we strive to achieve in every treatment and experience we offer.”
It is here, within the walls of the Rubber Trade Association of Selangor and Pahang building, that wellness and heritage intertwine. From the moment you notice the porthole windows and flagpole on its façade, then ascend through a narrow staircases and notice the vintage window grilles, you know this is no ordinary spa. Even the traditional-style sinks and original metal doors will evoke a nostalgic charm.
For Rubini, this was precisely the vision. “Our inspiration stemmed from a profound appreciation for Kuala Lumpur’s rich heritage, particularly the architectural gems that line Jalan Tun H.S. Lee,” she explains. “This street, formerly known as High Street, is one of the city’s oldest and most significant commercial streets.
“I believe that true wellness is not just about physical treatments but also about connecting with a sense of place and culture. We wanted our guests to step back in time and experience a sense of tranquillity that complements their wellness journey. It wasn’t just about finding a building; it was about finding a narrative and a spirit that aligned with our vision of offering a truly Malaysian wellness experience.”
The Rubber Trades Association Building was erected in 1953 and still serves the community today with tenants such as Kheng Dental Clinic and the much-loved Lai Foong Kopitiam on the ground floor. Plans are in the works to develop a gallery on the fourth floor to showcase the association’s history and host community activities – further cementing its place as a living part of the Heritage Triangle precinct.
Balancing the preservation of this heritage with the need for modern spa comforts has been no easy feat, Rubini admits, but one she relished. “This has been a delicate yet rewarding balance,” she says. “Our approach was to respect and highlight the building's original features while seamlessly integrating contemporary comforts.”
Structural elements like the original windows, doors and ventilation airwells have been lovingly restored, while the mosaic tilework adds period authenticity. The use of natural materials, textured walls and a muted, neutral palette lend warmth and complement the building’s age. Spa rooms are discreetly equipped with modern amenities — climate control, plush beds and efficient plumbing — without detracting from the historic charm.
“Lighting has been treated almost as an art form,” Rubini notes. “We designed it to enhance the architectural details, create a soothing spa environment and work with the natural light flow of the shophouse. The decor is intentionally minimalist yet luxurious, allowing the building’s character to shine through.”
The result is a setting that feels refined but not excessive, comforting yet distinctive — the perfect backdrop for Antara’s thoughtfully curated menu of treatments.
Among the most interesting is Urutan Malaysia, the spa’s signature Malaysian massage. This unique therapy combines elements of traditional Malay and indigenous massage techniques with a Malaysian herbal foot soak, Chinese Qi Gong breathing, Indian head massage and reflexology — all set to Malaysian therapeutic music and accented with batik, aromatic herbs and spices. It is, as Rubini describes, “a truly Malaysian holistic wellness experience.”
The Antara Signature Massage blends relaxing and calming techniques with warm herbal compresses to melt away tension, leaving guests feeling invigorated and deeply relaxed.
For those looking to revitalise their skin, Antara offers a selection of traditional lulur scrubs. The Lulur Rempah (Spice Delight) uses ginger, turmeric and vetiver to stimulate circulation and impart a natural glow, while the Lulur Bunga Raya (Hibiscus Rose Bliss) combines hibiscus and rose petals with ground rice for bright, radiant skin. Coffee lovers might opt for the Lulur Kopi (Coffee Energise), which blends coffee grounds with nourishing ginseng and cassia leaf for an invigorating polish.
Hair treatments and facials round out the spa’s offerings, providing a full spectrum of care.
So what does Rubini hope visitors take away from their time at Antara?
“My deepest hope is that visitors leave feeling not only physically rejuvenated but also culturally enriched and deeply connected to Malaysia,” she says. “For tourists, it should be more than just a spa visit — it’s a memorable immersion into Malaysian heritage. They can experience traditional Malaysian wellness practices in an authentic setting and gain a deeper appreciation for our culture beyond typical tourist attractions.
“For locals, I hope it sparks a renewed sense of pride in our shared history and traditional healing arts. Ultimately, we want everyone to take away a sense of calm, a deeper understanding of Malaysian wellness traditions, and a lasting memory of a unique experience found only here — where history and well-being intertwine.”
Indeed, the building itself has stories to tell. Jalan Tun H.S. Lee was a vital commercial artery in early Kuala Lumpur, rebuilt in brick and tile after the devastating fires and floods of the 1880s. Shophouses like this one were typically designed for mixed use: businesses downstairs, families upstairs.
“The architecture reflects a blend of local and colonial influences,” Rubini explains. “It often showcases the Straits Eclectic style with intricate façades, five-foot ways for pedestrians, and internal airwells to aid ventilation in the tropical heat.
“Our specific building would have witnessed the bustling trade of tin, rubber and other goods that characterised early Kuala Lumpur. It stood through the city’s transformation from a mining town to a vibrant capital, bearing witness to generations of families and businesses. Each brick and timber holds stories of the people who lived and worked here.”
Restoring a heritage property of this kind, she admits, comes with significant costs and challenges. Thankfully, Antara Spa & Wellness was able to tap into the resources of Think City, whose Creative Kuala Lumpur (Creative KL) Grants Programme supports adaptive reuse and preservation efforts in the city centre.
“We were incredibly fortunate to receive a grant from Think City,” Rubini says. “It provided crucial financial support – restoring a heritage building to modern standards while preserving its historical integrity is a costly endeavour, from expert conservation advice to sourcing appropriate materials and skilled craftsmen.
“Beyond funding, Think City also offers guidance and connects us with resources and best practices. This partnership allowed us to execute the refurbishment with a deeper respect for the building’s significance. It ensures that Antara Spa & Wellness is not just a business, but also a contributor to the ongoing efforts to preserve Kuala Lumpur’s invaluable heritage.”
Visitors to Antara often comment on the nostalgia they feel as they take the old elevator up or climb the staircases, notice the window grilles and take in the elegant proportions of the rooms.
On leaving, what lingers is not just the soothing scent of essential oils or the feeling of relaxed muscles – but a sense of having touched something uniquely Malaysian: a heritage that still lives and breathes in Downtown Kuala Lumpur, given new life in a modern, meaningful way.
As Rubini puts it: “Wellness is about more than treatments – it’s about reconnecting with yourself and your surroundings. We hope that here, in this beautiful old shophouse, people find both.”
Level 2 & 3, 138, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
How to get there?
Take the LRT or MRT to Pasar Seni station and it’s just a five minute walk from there.
For more information on how to apply for a Kreatif KL Grant, visit thinkcity.com.my/warisanklgrants.
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