Cheras

Cheras is a rapidly growing urban township located on the southeastern edge of Kuala Lumpur, straddling both Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory and the state of Selangor. Known for its strategic location, mixed residential developments, and thriving commercial activity, Cheras has emerged as one of the most sought-after areas for homeowners, investors, and developers in the Greater Kuala Lumpur region.

Once considered a quiet suburban area, Cheras has undergone significant transformation in the past two decades. With the expansion of public transport networks and increasing urban density, Cheras is now considered a key urban node linking Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) with rapidly growing southern districts such as Kajang, Balakong, and Semenyih.

Geographical Advantage and Accessibility

Cheras enjoys a highly strategic location, bordered by Kuala Lumpur to the northwest, Ampang to the north, and Kajang to the south. This makes it a vital link between inner-city Kuala Lumpur and southern Klang Valley districts. The area is well-served by an integrated transportation network, offering multiple routes for both private and public commuters.

Major Highways and Roads:

• Cheras-Kajang Expressway (E7 / Grand Saga Highway)
• Sungai Besi Expressway (BESRAYA)
• Maju Expressway (MEX)
• East–West Link Expressway
• Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2)
• LEKAS Highway (nearby access to Kajang & Seremban)

These roads provide direct access to Kuala Lumpur city centre (15–20 minutes drive), as well as other key destinations such as Putrajaya, Cyberjaya, Bangi, and Nilai.

Public Transport

Cheras is one of the best-connected townships in terms of rail-based public transportation. The area is served by the MRT Kajang Line, LRT Ampang Line, and several feeder bus services.

Key MRT/LRT Stations in Cheras:

• Taman Connaught MRT
• Taman Mutiara MRT
• Taman Midah MRT
• Maluri MRT & LRT Interchange
• Cochrane MRT
• Bandar Tun Razak LRT
• Cheras LRT

The Taman Connaught MRT station, for example, is directly linked to the Cheras Sentral Shopping Mall, while the Maluri Interchange connects commuters to the LRT Ampang Line and AEON Taman Maluri.

Upcoming Infrastructure & Developments

Cheras is poised for further urban growth, supported by several ongoing and upcoming infrastructure and property projects.

Major Highlights:

• Sunway Velocity and Velocity 2 – a fully integrated development with serviced residences, retail outlets, and medical facilities.
• EkoCheras Mall & Residences – connected to Taman Mutiara MRT Station, offering integrated lifestyle living.
• MyTown Shopping Centre expansion – located near Cochrane MRT and IKEA Cheras.
• Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) – while not directly in Cheras, this mega financial hub is just 15 minutes away via MRT, boosting property value along the MRT corridor.

These developments continue to enhance Cheras’s appeal as a modern and liveable urban township, increasing both residential demand and commercial activity.

Demographics and Urban Landscape

Cheras is home to an estimated population of over 500,000, comprising a mix of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and a growing number of expatriates. The area’s diversity is reflected in its places of worship, food culture, education institutions, and business activities.

Cheras’s urban development features a blend of:

• Established neighbourhoods like Taman Midah, Taman Segar, Bandar Tun Razak
• Newer integrated projects like You City, EkoCheras, and Sunway Velocity
• Ongoing developments in areas like Balakong, Cheras Selatan, and Taman Len Sen

Unlike Kuala Lumpur city centre, Cheras offers a more balanced suburban environment with parks, schools, and medium-density housing while maintaining excellent connectivity to the city.

Property Market Overview

The Cheras property market is highly diverse and continues to be a popular choice for first-time buyers, upgraders, and investors alike. Housing options range from older landed homes to modern condominiums, serviced apartments, and SOHO units.

Property Types in Cheras:

• Double-storey terrace houses
• Single-storey homes (older neighbourhoods)
• Low- and medium-cost apartments
• Serviced residences and condominiums
• Gated and guarded townhouses (in newer developments)

Key Attractions for Buyers:

• MRT access within walking distance
• Proximity to city centre and key amenities
• Variety of price points, from affordable to luxury
• Strong rental yield potential, especially near MRT stations

Cheras has also seen rising interest from Singaporean investors, retirees, and young professionals due to its affordability compared to central KL areas like Bangsar or Mont Kiara.

Economic Activity and Employment

Although not an industrial hub, Cheras is well-integrated with Kuala Lumpur’s larger economic ecosystem. Many residents are professionals working in:

• Kuala Lumpur city centre
• Tun Razak Exchange (TRX)
• Bandar Malaysia
• Technology Park Malaysia (Bukit Jalil)
• UCSI University and medical centres

Key commercial centres in and around Cheras:

• Sunway Velocity Mall
• AEON Maluri
• Cheras LeisureMall
• EkoCheras Mall
• IKEA Cheras / MyTown Shopping Centre

These hubs offer employment opportunities in retail, hospitality, healthcare, education, and property management.

Education in Cheras

Cheras is home to a wide range of public schools, private schools, international institutions, and higher education centres, making it ideal for families.

Notable Institutions:

• UCSI University – a prominent private university with a strong health science faculty
• Sunway College Velocity
• Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Cheras
• Sri Cempaka International School (nearby in Taman Bukit Cheras)
• Real Schools, Suria International School (Balakong/Cheras Selatan)

The presence of UCSI Hospital and Medical Centre further strengthens Cheras as a hub for medical and healthcare education.

Healthcare Services

Cheras residents have access to both public and private healthcare facilities:

Major Hospitals and Clinics:

• UCSI Hospital (private, specialist)
• Pantai Hospital Cheras
• Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM / UKM Hospital) – public teaching hospital
• Columbia Asia Hospital Cheras
• KPJ Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital (nearby)
• Numerous 24-hour clinics and dental centres

Cheras is increasingly seen as a medical suburb, especially due to its proximity to HCTM and the rise of medical tourism in Klang Valley.

Tourism, Lifestyle & Attractions

Cheras is not typically viewed as a tourist hotspot, but it offers unique local attractions and a rich food culture.

Places to Explore:

• Taman Connaught Night Market 
• Cheras LeisureMall
• You City’s Sky Deck 
• Bukit Saga & Bukit Apek 
• Taman Bukit Permai

Cheras is also a foodie paradise, offering everything from traditional Chinese kopitiams to halal mamak stalls and trendy cafes.