Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, commonly known as TTDI, is an affluent and thriving residential area located in the northwest of Kuala Lumpur. Situated on the border of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, TTDI is within proximity to popular commercial developments in Bandar Utama, Mutiara Damansara, Damansara Utama and the suburbs of Petaling Jaya.
TTDI was previously a rubber plantation area, but developers as far back as the 1960s saw its potential as a future township that blends residential, commercial, cultural, institutional and entertainment spots.
Development began in 1973, and the township was named after Tun Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s first ambassador to the United States and representative to the United Nations, before becoming Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister in 1970.
Other streets in TTDI were also named after inspiring early-independence leaders such as Jalan Burhanuddin Helmi, Jalan Fuad Stephens, Jalan Zaaba, Jalan Athinahapan, and many more.
Lush, green suburbs
Today, the well-planned township has grown into a mature, self-sufficient and much in demand neighbourhood comprising predominantly terraced houses with some newer high-end condominium towers, housing a loyal population that has easy access to local amenities including public schools, clinics, a fire station, a wet market, major bank outlets, supermarkets, coffee shops, cafes and restaurants.
A major draw is the enviable proliferation of natural greenery, with tree-lined streets and a large urban park, filled with native tropical flora, and home to local wildlife, including more than 40 recorded species of birds, many of which are protected. Taman Rimba Kiara, as it is officially known, is a firm favourite with both TTDI residents and those living elsewhere.
The park is a vast and beautiful natural oasis with a stream running through it. It is further enhanced with jogging trails and a children’s playground and is a favourite with health nuts, who can often be found doing aerobics, tai-chi or yoga. The verdant greenery and plentiful amenities make this park a lovely spot for picnics, family outings or to simply sit back and relax.
Community at its heart
TTDI exudes a strong sense of community that makes this a desirable location for families. There are various volunteer organisations and it is a common sight for neighbours to greet each other on the street as they go about their day-to-day activities.
The neighbourhood continues to expand at an accelerated pace with high-rise condominiums, gated bungalows, trendy restaurants and watering holes popping up on a regular basis.
It is also home to one of Kuala Lumpur’s largest public art gallery – Ken Gallery – which spans over 20,000 sq. ft. of space, exhibiting artworks by some of Malaysia’s most talented and prominent artists.
Already well served by Kuala Lumpur’s extensive road infrastructure via the LDP, SPRINT, NKVE, Penchala Link and Jalan Damansara highways, TTDI has also recently gained an MRT station. With the proposed LRT3 Bandar Utama-Klang Line to come soon, connectivity to this affluent suburb will be second to none.
With its leafy streets, a host of social and recreational facilities, top-notch amenities, and excellent connectivity, TTDI is a desirable neighbourhood not likely to lose its lustre. And for those not living there, its thriving commercial area is a social hotspot, attracting a well-heeled and discerning crowd, adding to the reputation of this gem of a neighbourhood.
