Malaysia's capital Kuala Lumpur is a city caught in a metropolitan dilemma; it aspires to be Singapore, but at times feels more like Bangkok. It is a mix of clean, clinical efficiency of business-like Singapore, and the raffish rough edges of the Thai capital, Bangkok, that creates the Kuala Lumpur's charm. Kuala Lumpur, meaning ‘muddy confluence', has grown with amazing speed since the economic growth accelerated during the 1980s and early 1990s, resulted in vibrant cityscape. Over the last few years the construction and infrastructure projects have seen the city's skyline become crowded with cranes and clanking machinery as entire neighborhoods have undergone redevelopment. Kuala Lumpur is now one of the most important cities of Asia and continues to grow economically, culturally and politically. For the Malaysians, Kuala Lumpur is ‘Ibukota’ (Mother City) and treated with great respect. The Malaysian government tourism slogan of Malaysia truly Asia is perfect for KL. As the city is the confluence of Malaysian Inhabitants, Chinese settlers, Indian Migrants and British colonials all offered their distinct cultural contribution to KL. The tourism sector also plays an important part in the city’s economy, providing income, employment and expanding business opportunities. As an extension of this, many large worldwide hotel chains have presence in the city. Kuala Lumpur has also developed into an international shopping destination with a wide variety of shopping centers and megamalls which carry well-known global and local brands. Conference tourism—which mainly encompasses conventions—has also expanded in recent years and is becoming a very important component of the industry.