Merdeka Square

Merdeka Square
Visit this impressive square for a glimpse into Kuala Lumpur's colonial past and to see the place where the Malaysian flag was raised for the very first time.

This square in the centre of Kuala Lumpur holds particular significance for locals, as it is the place where Malaysian independence was officially declared – hence the name Merdeka (literally "Independence" Square). This important moment in Malaysian history is commemorated in the square every year as part of the country's Independence Day celebrations.

Although Merdeka Square now plays host to concerts and events, its carefully tended lawn and hedges were once the cricket pitch of the Royal Selangor Club. Check out the Royal Selangor Club building itself, one of the many fine examples of colonial architecture that surround the square. This Tudor-revival structure was originally a meeting-place for prominent British military officers, where they could socialise and hold cricket tournaments.

Directly opposite stands the magnificent neo-Moorish Sultan Abdul Samad Building, which was completed in 1897. The architect Arthur C. Norman drew inspiration from his time in India for this government building, hence its domed turrets, highly decorated archways and beautiful red and white brick façade. Marvel at the 41-metre clock tower as you walk past.

You'll find a number of other gems just off the square, including the 19th-century St. Mary's Cathedral, mother church of the West Malaysia Diocese, and the National Textile Museum. The latter is a treasure trove of weaving and embroidery exhibits. The Kuala Lumpur City Gallery is also well worth a visit for its wealth of historical photos and artifacts.

The main attraction, however, is the 95-metre flagpole in the south of the square. One of the tallest in the world, it marks the spot where, in 1957, the Union Jack was lowered and the Malaysian National Flag raised for the first time, thereby officially marking the start of Malaysia's independence from the UK.

You'll find Merdeka Square right in the centre of Kuala Lumpur, just west of the Gombak River and a short walk from the Jamek Mosque. Public transport is an easy and cheap option but, if you want to drive, there's a paid underground car park at the southern end. The square is open every day and entry to it, the city gallery and the textile museum is free of charge.

Top 10 Hotels Near Merdeka Square

The Face Suites Kuala Lumpur
The Face Suites Kuala Lumpur
5 out of 5
1020, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
The price is S$123 per night from 2 Jul to 3 Jul
S$123
per night
2 Jul - 3 Jul
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,468 reviews)
"Pro: spacious suites Con: need to wait a long time for an elevator during busy hours (52 floors)- and 1 elevator wasn't working during my stay. The infinity pool on the top floor is nice, but Suite 2 blocks the view of Petronas Towers from the pool (if that matters to you)."

Reviewed on 22 May,2023

The Face Suites Kuala Lumpur
JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur
JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur
5 out of 5
183 Jalan Bukit Bintang, Wilayah Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur
The price is S$143 per night from 2 Jul to 3 Jul
S$143
per night
2 Jul - 3 Jul
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy free WiFi, 4 restaurants, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
"Almost was very good except dining also one of the staff was very kind and helpful Sara Baghari Kind regards Francis"

Reviewed on 1 Jun,2023

JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur
Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
5 out of 5
Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Kuala Lumpur
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is S$182 per night from 9 Jun to 10 Jun
S$182
per night
9 Jun - 10 Jun
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,000 reviews)
Still the best hotel in KL
"I booked a Club Twin Tower View King Room at Level 26 and it was such an experience at my last night in KL. The room, building and interior are just still spectacular and luxurious. The staff go all the way t provide excellent service. The hotel may be older than some of the other newer hotels around ..."

Reviewed on 20 May,2023

Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
 INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras
Melia Kuala Lumpur
The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur

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Top Merdeka Square Hotel Deals

Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur
4 out of 5
13-15, Leboh Ampang, Kuala Lumpur
Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur
JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur
JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur
5 out of 5
183 Jalan Bukit Bintang, Wilayah Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur
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The Face Suites Kuala Lumpur
The Face Suites Kuala Lumpur
5 out of 5
1020, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
The Face Suites Kuala Lumpur
Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
5 out of 5
Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Kuala Lumpur
Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur
Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur
5 out of 5
11 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur
Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur
5 out of 5
Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Kuala Lumpur
Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Furama Bukit Bintang
Furama Bukit Bintang
4 out of 5
136 Jalan Changkat Thambi Dollah, Kuala Lumpur
Furama Bukit Bintang
Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral
Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral
4 out of 5
No 5, Jalan Stesen Sentral, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, Kuala Lumpur
Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral
Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown
Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown
4 out of 5
NO 2 JALAN BALAI POLIS, Kuala Lumpur
Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.