Sultan Abdul Samad Building
The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is a majestic Moorish-style 120-year-old building that will make a fantastic addition to your travel photo collection.
Unquestionably the most beautiful building at Merdeka Square, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building has a Moorish design and a magnificent clock tower, which was constructed in the year 1897 entirely in bricks. It first served as the centre of British administration, then housed the Federal Court of Malaysia, the Court of Appeals, and the High Court of Malaya, before these moved to Putrajaya. The building is frequently seen as the backdrop for Malaysia’s annual Independent Day parade.
Location
This building is located just across Merdeka Square, which is about 3 kilometres from the transportation hub – KL Sentral, and a 10-minute walk from the Kuala Lumpur Railway station.
Opening Days and Hours
You can only see the building from the outside at any time.
Entry Fee and Bookings
You cannot enter the building but taking photos from the outside is free.
How to Get There
Visitors may get to Merdeka Square via the LRT train. Just disembark at Masjid Jamek station and walk for 5 minutes. You can also travel via the KTM Komuter. Simply disembark at Kuala Lumpur station and walk for 10 minutes to the site.
Suggested For
This place is suitable for travelers of all ages, especially those who are interested in Malaysia’s history or photography enthusiasts.
Time to Spend
15 minutes is long enough to see the building.
Food
There are no food stalls or restaurants within the Merdeka Square area, however, you can easily find a variety of food at nearby attractions that are accessible by foot. Central Market and Petaling Street (China Town) offer great options to satisfy your hunger. Some must-try local food stalls at China Town are Kim Lian Kee Hokkien Mee, Yong Tau Fu at the China Town wet market, Kim Soya Bean, Madam Tang Mua Chi stall, and Air Mata Kucing stall.
Nearby Attractions
- Merdeka Square – just opposite the Sultan Abdul Samad Building
- Masjid Jamek Mosque – 7 minutes by foot
- Central Market- 6 minutes by foot
- Petaling Street (China Town) – 9 minutes by foot
Stay
Visitors can easily find accommodation in the city of Kuala Lumpur, ranging from budget hostels, mid-range accommodation to luxury hotels.
Good to Know
A visit to the building during Independence Day and Malaysia Day will let you witness the majestic Sultan Abdul Samad building changing its colour as illuminated by LED lights.