Merdeka Square / Dataran Merdeka

Merdeka Square is a cultural highlight of Kuala Lumpur. The name means Independence Square. One of the reasons why this square is so popular is because it’s within walking distance of the most important architectural and colonial sights to see in Kuala Lumpur. If you wish to explore the city then Merdeka Square is a good place to start from.

Colonial heritage can be found all around the square. The imposing gothic, mughal and Indo-Saracenic styled Sultan Abdul Samad building is where the British administration was housed during colonial times. Leaving a landmark site for tourists to visit. Every year parades are held in front of the building on Independence day and Malaysia day. These vibrant spectacles demonstrate the historical importance of this beautiful building for Malaysia.

On the other side of the square you will find the Royal Selangor Club, which is a social and sports club originally founded for the local elite of all origins. But this is also one of the first places where the Malayan flag waved after it’s independence, and is now a symbol of social cohesion for the locals.

If you are interested in the colonial history of Malaysia then this Independence Square is the best place to visit in Kuala Lumpur, for a truly cultural citysperience. As this square is in the touristic heart of Kuala Lumpur you can also easily visit the nearby sights such as the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery, which is the tourist information center, the imposing Jamek Mosque, the unusual looking skyscraper called the Dayabumi Complex and the historical Panggung Bandaraya City Theatre. In short, there are plenty of things to admire in the area.