Once a cricket green, Dataran Merdeka
('Independence Square') is where Malaysia's independence from British
rule was formally proclaimed in 1957. Today, one of the world's largest
free-standing flagpoles marks the spot. The Tudor-style Selangor Club is
located at one corner of the green square, and nearby is the neo-Gothic
St. Mary's Anglican cathedral.
The Sultan Abdul Samad building is located
across from the square, unmistakable with its 40m clock tower topped by
a shiny copper dome. Designed by A.C. Norman and completed in 1897, this
heritage building now houses a division of the High Court of Malaya and
several other administrative offices.
Merdeka Square and its historic
surroundings are a great outing for the whole family, perhaps most
enjoyed by architecture buffs. For others, the area is best seen after
sunset, when it's not too hot and the decorative lights are switched on.
The site is best accessed via the Masjid Jamek station (Putra and Star
LRT), though it's a healthy hike and you might opt to take a taxi from
here.
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