The Royal Selangor name began back in 1885 with a young pewter-smith by the name of Yong Koon, now a four-generation company. Originating in Malaysia, where the abundant supply of tin made the makings of pewter so easy, it now has a large factory in Kuala Lumpur with smaller visitor centers also in Penang as well as in Singapore. It is world renowned and in fact is the world’s largest pewter maker, specializing in personal & corporate gifts, tableware, wine & beer accessories, christening gifts, and much more! In more recent years, it has also purchased a silver company as well as a jewelry company, which both nicely compliments the brand.
The Royal Selangor name came about because the pewter that the royals purchased had become so popular with the Malaysian Royal family, they ended up granting them their exclusive pewter makers, thus, Royal Selangor. Today, not only royal families desire pieces from this all handmade collection, but also US Presidents, celebrities, tourists, and more!
The Royal Selangor Pewter Factory in Kuala Lumpur is fascinating. I’ve been there 2 times now (once with the American Association of KL and once with my in-laws and husband) and see something new every time. Although it is located in a random part of town (random being a bit tough to get to, even with GPS), it is so worth it! They offer complimentary tours every day that offers visitors access to historical pieces, real-time factory work, a grand gift shop, and a yummy cafe.
They also offer 2 options for some hands-on time. For a small to moderate fee, you can try your hand at pewter dish making in their 30 min “School of Hard Knocks” workshop or freestyle accessory making in the 60 minute class- “The Foundry“. I have only done the hard knocks class thus far…..mainly due to the fact that I’m not very artistic :). Anyway, both are fantastic!
Check out some pictures from both of my tours- you must see this for yourself! It’s a great way to spend a rainy & humid afternoon in KL! Enjoy 🙂
Guinness Book of World Records- largest beer mug! I think my hubby is happy here!
I never knew what pewter was made of until now…
The birth of the Royal Selangor company- 1885
Part of the massive factory showroom
The gorgeous wall of pewter mirror frames
Malaysian currency in the old days….the size and weight of animals would depict the worth.
Later on…they created “money trees” instead- you just break off coins for the amount.
Trying my hand at it!
Watching them melt and make handles for the beer mugs!
Partial shot of the factory floor where all the magic happens!
The Foundry Class
Pewter Twin Petronas Towers!
haha, a fun hands-on portion of the tour….see how many people it takes to tip the scales for a ton of pewter!
The School of Hard Knocks!
We are certified pewter dish makers! What a fun afternoon 🙂
Until next time, happy & safe travels~
Kimbra
Meet your Nabers!
Check out my Partnership Badges!
