In 1991, prior to the development of this well planned residential area, Bandar Utama, along with its neighbouring areas was a wide expanse of palm oil estates. 13 years later, an estimated 59 000 people now reside in this vibrant township. Bandar Utama comprises of 12 sections spanning from BU1 to BU12. It is serviced by 2 expressways, the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE) and the Damansara-Puchong Expressway (LDP). Access to these 2 expressways provides easy access to the surrounding areas. Travel time to its neighbouring areas on a clear day would only be a mere 5 minutes.
Bandar Utama is surrounded by many other highly populated residential areas such as Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Damansara Utama, Damansara Jaya and SS2 but what sets it apart from all the rest is the presence of the 1 Utama Shopping Centre. Possibly one of the most popular shopping malls in Klang Valley, it is visited by people from as far as Puchong, Shah Alam and many other K.L districts. Centrepoint is a smaller and more modest commercial building that provides its residents with the essentials such as a grocery store, some dining outlets, banks, pharmacies and educational centres. A 24-hour McDonalds drive thru restaurant is located directly next to Centrepoint.
Apart from the hustle and bustle of shopping malls, Bandar Utama also provides many other recreational activities. Central Park is located opposite the 1 Utama Shopping Complex and its well polished greeneries and creative pirate ship playground makes it one of the most visited parks in Petaling Jaya. A community centre was recently erected and it houses a community hall, a football field, badminton courts and other sports facilities. In addition, the sporting experience is completed with the presence of the Tropicana Golf and Country Club nearby as well as a resident driving range located behind 1 Utama.
There is no shortage of educational centres as there are three primary schools and four secondary schools within Bandar Utama itself. The schools in the neighbouring areas service many of the Bandar Utama students as well. To top it off, a private tertiary institution is also present. Kolej Bandar Utama (KBU) is a popular choice for students pursuing degrees in engineering, design, computing and business.
Bandar Utama is fully equipped with all the comforts and convenience of modern technology as well. All the commercial buildings are equipped with wireless internet. With so many different activities available at Bandar Utama, it is no wonder that this vibrant neighbourhood has become a destination for both locals, expatriates and tourists.
