A Timeless Icon of Kuala Lumpur’s Heritage

About

Standing majestically along Jalan Raja, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is one of Kuala Lumpur’s most cherished historical landmarks. Facing the iconic Dataran Merdeka, this architectural masterpiece has borne witness to Malaysia’s rich history and evolution.

Construction of the building commenced in September 1894 and concluded in 1897. It was officially inaugurated on April 4, 1897, by Sir Frank Swettenham, the then-General Resident. The building was named after Sultan Abdul Samad, the reigning Sultan of Selangor during its construction period.

Role in Malaysia’s History

Initially serving as the central administrative office for the British colonial administration, the building was known simply as the Government Offices. Post-independence, it housed Malaysia’s superior courts, including the Federal Court, the Court of Appeals, and the High Court of Malaya, before these institutions relocated in the early 2000s. ​

A pivotal moment in the building’s history occurred on January 1, 1982, when the clock tower was the site where the time for Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore was standardised to UTC+8.

Present-Day Significance

Today, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building houses the offices of Malaysia’s Ministry of Communications and Multimedia and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. It continues to serve as a backdrop for significant national events, such as the annual National Day Parade on August 31 and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

The Sultan Abdul Samad Building stands as a testament to Malaysia’s architectural brilliance and historical journey. Its enduring presence continues to inspire and remind visitors of the nation’s rich cultural tapestry and colonial past.

Address: Jln Raja, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hours: 24 hours daily