.%5B1%5D.png)
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The 16th Southeast Asia Astronomy Network (SEAAN) Meeting 2026 will be held at Planetarium Negara, Malaysia's national centre for astronomy education and public outreach, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
Surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Perdana Botanical Gardens, Planetarium Negara offers a unique environment where science, education, and culture converge. Its modern conference facilities, exhibition galleries, astronomical displays, and iconic geodesic dome make it an ideal venue for bringing together the astronomy community from across Southeast Asia and beyond.
Conveniently located just minutes from Kuala Lumpur's city centre, the venue provides excellent accessibility to hotels, public transportation, cultural attractions, museums, and major landmarks.
Established in 1993, Planetarium Negara (also National Planetarium in English) serves as Malaysia's premier institution dedicated to astronomy education, scientific awareness, and public engagement. The facility operates under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and has become one of the country's most recognised centres for promoting astronomy and space science.
The complex features:
A state-of-the-art dome theatre
Interactive astronomy and space science galleries
Observatory and telescope facilities
Educational laboratories
Exhibition halls
Conference and seminar rooms
Public outreach and science communication programmes
Its mission aligns closely with SEAAN's commitment to advancing astronomy research, education, and regional collaboration.
Participants will enjoy a comfortable and modern conference environment, including:
Fully air-conditioned conference halls
High-speed wireless internet access
Audio-visual presentation facilities
Exhibition and poster presentation areas
Meeting and networking spaces
Refreshment and dining areas
Prayer facilities
Accessible amenities
Nearby parking facilities
Planetarium Negara is strategically located within the Perdana Botanical Gardens, one of Kuala Lumpur's most historic and scenic districts.
Nearby attractions include:
Perdana Botanical Gardens
National Museum (Muzium Negara)
Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
National Mosque of Malaysia (Masjid Negara)
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park
ASEAN Sculpture Garden
Merdeka Square
Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC)
Participants are encouraged to explore Kuala Lumpur's rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, and vibrant urban attractions during their stay.
National Planetarium (Planetarium Negara)
Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana,
50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
📍 View on Google Maps
Planetarium Negara is approximately 60 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Estimated travel time:
Taxi / Ride-hailing services: 50–60 minutes
KLIA Express + MRT/LRT: Approximately 1 hour
The venue is easily accessible via Kuala Lumpur's integrated public transportation network.
Nearest stations include:
Muzium Negara MRT Station
KL Sentral Transportation Hub
Kuala Lumpur KTM Station
Visitors may also use taxi and ride-hailing services such as Grab, which are widely available throughout the city.
The conference venue, Planetarium Negara, is conveniently located between Perdana Botanical Gardens and KL Sentral, providing delegates with a wide selection of accommodation ranging from luxury five-star hotels to affordable budget options. Most hotels are within a 5–20 minute drive or a 10–25 minute walk from the venue.
Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. As November is a popular travel period in Kuala Lumpur, delegates are strongly encouraged to book their hotel well in advance to secure their preferred room type and the best available rates.
Most recommended hotels are located within the KL Sentral and Perdana Botanical Gardens areas, offering convenient access to Planetarium Negara by foot, ride-hailing services (e.g. Grab), or public transportation. Several hotels are also directly connected to KL Sentral, Malaysia's main transportation hub, providing easy connections to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) via the KLIA Express.
Accommodation Suggestions
| Hotel | Category | Approx. Price (per night) | Distance to Planetarium Negara | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur | ★★★★★ Luxury |
RM1,200–1,600 | ~0.8 km | 3 min drive / 10 min walk |
| Hilton Kuala Lumpur | ★★★★★ | RM650–900 | ~1.1 km | 4 min drive / 15 min walk |
| Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur | ★★★★★ | RM650–900 | ~1.1 km | 4 min drive / 15 min walk |
| The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur | ★★★★★ Heritage |
RM500–800 | ~300 m | 4 min walk |
| Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral | ★★★★ | RM450–650 | ~1.2 km | 5 min drive / 15 min walk |
| Ascott Sentral Kuala Lumpur | ★★★★ Serviced Residence |
RM450–700 | ~1.4 km | 5 min drive |
| Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown | ★★★★ | RM380–550 | ~1.7 km | 6 min drive |
| Travelodge Kuala Lumpur City Centre | ★★★ | RM150–250 | ~2.0 km | 8 min drive |
| Hotel Summer View, Kuala Lumpur | ★★★ | RM120–220 | ~0.9 km | 12 min walk |
| Easy Hotel KL Sentral | ★★★ Budget |
RM100–180 | ~1.0 km | 12 min walk |
| Scott Hotel KL Sentral | ★★★ Budget |
RM80–150 | ~0.4 km | 6 min walk |
| Hotel Sentral Kuala Lumpur | ★★★ Budget |
RM90–180 | ~1.0 km | 12 min walk |
Distances are approximate from Planetarium Negara. Room rates are indicative and vary depending on booking dates, room type, and availability.
Kuala Lumpur is internationally recognised for its multicultural cuisine.
Participants will find numerous restaurants offering:
Malaysian cuisine
Malay cuisine
Chinese cuisine
Indian cuisine
Middle Eastern cuisine
Western cuisine
Vegetarian and Halal options
Many restaurants are located within walking distance of KL Sentral, providing convenient dining choices before and after conference sessions.
November is generally warm and humid in Kuala Lumpur.
Typical conditions:
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–32°C |
| Climate | Tropical |
| Humidity | High |
| Rainfall | Occasional afternoon showers |
Participants are advised to bring light clothing and an umbrella.
The Malaysian Immigration Department states that ASEAN nationals generally do not require a visa for stays of less than one month, except Myanmar, which currently has a visa-free stay of up to 14 days under the ASEAN Framework Agreement. Longer stays may require a visa or other immigration approval.
Most foreign nationals, including many ASEAN travellers, are required to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within 3 days before arrival in Malaysia. Travellers should check the latest exemptions and requirements before departure.
Participants should ensure that:
If you require an official Letter of Invitation for immigration or institutional purposes, please contact the Local Organising Committee after completing your conference registration.
For the latest visa information, participants are advised to consult the Malaysian Immigration Department before making travel arrangements.
Kuala Lumpur offers a blend of modern architecture, rich cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality.
Popular attractions include:
Petronas Twin Towers
Merdeka 118
Batu Caves
Central Market
Chinatown (Petaling Street)
Bukit Bintang
Saloma Link
KL Forest Eco Park
Perdana Botanical Gardens
Whether you are interested in history, architecture, shopping, or local cuisine, Kuala Lumpur offers something for every visitor.
The Local Organising Committee warmly welcomes all delegates to Planetarium Negara, Kuala Lumpur, for the 16th Southeast Asia Astronomy Network (SEAAN) Meeting 2026.
We hope your visit will be both scientifically rewarding and culturally enriching as we come together to strengthen regional collaboration and advance the future of astronomy in Southeast Asia.