🇲🇾 Merdeka Square

Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur

Planning to visit Merdeka Square? See our information below!

Information:

Merdeka Square, also known as Dataran Merdeka, is located just outside the centre of Kuala Lumpur, just behind the popular Chinatown district. The square has great symbolic significance because Malaysia declared its independence (Merdeka) on 31 August 1957, which had previously been under British rule. Since then, the Jalur Gemilang (Malaysian flag) flies proudly on the world’s tallest flagpole (95 m). And the square is surrounded by several historic buildings.

Across the street is the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, with stunning architecture so different from the very English buildings. Designed by A.C. Norman, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building inspired the Indian Moghul architecture he saw during some of his travels.

Construction of the building was completed in 1897. Since then, it has housed many government buildings, including the Selangor State Secretariat and the Supreme Court. Today, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building houses the Ministry of Information, Communications and Culture and Merdeka Square is where the Merdeka Parade or National Day Parade takes place.

On the anniversary of Malaysia’s independence, the national parade is held here. Watch uniformed troops and national bodies march past, followed by cultural performances and colourful float parades. If you come at other times, Merdeka Square also has events to offer you, as various events such as open-air concerts and fairs are held almost all year round. It is also often the starting and finishing point of international marathons.

Opening hours:

Merdeka Square is open every day of the year. There may be events in the square, so you may not be able to walk everywhere every day.

Tips and Tricks!

Here are a few tips worth knowing before you visit Merdeka Square!

• The best time to visit Merdeka Square is on 31 August, the anniversary of Malaysia’s independence. Because then you can attend the National Day parades that take place here every year.

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