The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is one of Malaysia’s most iconic and treasured heritage landmarks, with a history dating back to the late 19th century. Located along Jalan Raja, directly opposite Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) and the Royal Selangor Club, the building was inaugurated in 1897 and named in honour of the reigning Sultan of Selangor at the time.
Designed by British architect A. C. Norman—who also worked on Masjid Jamek and the National Textile Museum—the building showcases a striking Moorish architectural style. Its design blends British colonial planning with Islamic influences, reflecting Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity and layered history.
Constructed primarily of red bricks, the building is distinguished by its three towers, tall white arches, curved colonnades, a grand porch, and two domes. Dominating the façade is the 41.2-metre-high clock tower, often likened to London’s Big Ben, which has become a defining feature of Kuala Lumpur’s historic skyline.
Originally known as the Government Offices, the building once centralised British administrative departments. It later housed Malaysia’s superior courts, including the Federal Court of Malaysia, the Court of Appeal, and the High Court of Malaya.
Over the decades, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building has witnessed many defining moments in the nation’s history. Most notably, it stood as a silent observer during the declaration of Malaya’s independence on 31 August 1957, when the British Union Jack was lowered. Today, it continues to serve as a ceremonial backdrop for Malaysia’s annual Independence Day celebrations at Dataran Merdeka.
Now a popular tourist attraction, the building’s distinctive architecture and historical significance make it an ideal setting for photography—especially during golden hour and evening illuminations.
How to Get There
The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is located along Jalan Raja, directly opposite Dataran Merdeka.
- By LRT: Alight at Masjid Jamek Station
- On foot: Approximately 10 minutes’ walk from the station
