Trips

Office Matters

Merdeka Square

Merdeka is the Malay word for independence. Merdeka Square commemorates the historic event that occurred here, at the stroke of midnight on 31 August 1957 when the Union Jack was lowered for the last time, and Malaya became an independent nation. Originally called the Parade Ground, it was later known as the Padang. The Square was the focal point of colonial Kuala Lumpur. Most of the buildings which surround it date from the turn of the century.

Today it is a beautiful preserve in the city centre with gardens, terraces and fountains. Beneath the Square is a food, leisure and entertainment complex called Plaza Putra, and a carpark. Merdeka Square is still used as the venue of many important national events.

A 100m (328 ft) high flagpole, reputedly the tallest in the world, soars above the Square. At each end are the fountains, new and old. The old ornamental fountain and drinking trough was ordered from England by the Sanitary Board. The fountain was to be erected in Market Square. However, the police objected on grounds that it would obstruct the flow of traffic and suggested the site at the corner of the Parade Ground. The fountain was brought in from England and assembled locally in 1897.

Click the map below to view a larger version

« Kuala Lumpur Memorial Library

Royal Selangor Club »

Digital Art & Culture Festival 2011, 15 to 17 July 2011 in Suffolk House, Penang

[read more]

"Warisan Kertas 2011" Exhibition Extended to 30 September 2011

[read more]

News & Announcements

[read more]

Events

[read more]

Please subscribe to our mailing list to receive our e-newsletter.