The
Sultan Abdul Samad building was constructed at the end of the last century
and the site was chosen because of its central position. A.C. Norman, a
British architect who worked for the Public Works Department in Kuala
Lumpur, in designing the existing building took into consideration some of
the features of buildings in several Islamic countries. The predominantly
Moorish appearance of the building suitably reflects the cultural background
of Malaysia.KL Railway Station
Veteran train traveller and writer Paul Theroux summed up this unique building when he called it 'the grandest station in South East Asia'. Sadly, InterCity trains no longer stop at the station, however it is still being used as a KTM Kommuter station. The 1911 Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is an extraordinary architectural melange - a kind of Walt Disney meets Moorish British colonialism. The riot of minarets, towers, arches and spires makes a journey starting or ending here, or even just visiting the station, is a breathtaking pleasure.
Dataran Merdeka
The
Dataran Merdeka (formerly the Selangor Club Padang) was once the focal
point, and cricket green, of the British colonial presence in Malaysia. Like
the surviving Dutch buildings in Malacca , the structures edging the Dataran
Merdeka are startling testimony to colonial residents' desire to recreate
the physical environment of their native land. Situated on one corner of the
square is the Selangor Club, which once served as the social centre for
British residents. Although its membership today reflects Malaysia's
remarkable cultural diversity, the building itself is plucked from the merry
old England of the Tudors. Close by is St Mary's Cathedral, a neo-Gothic
church more than a hundred years old.Parliament House
Standing on elevated ground commanding a panoramic view of the Lake Gardens is the modern Parliament House. The main building and its adjoining tower block accommodate the two houses of Parliament, a banquet hall, library, various offices and committee rooms. Visitors may view Parliamentary sessions by prior arrangement with the authorities, who will advise on protocol and dress code.
Istana Negara
The official residence of the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong (The King), located on a hillock at Jalan Istana. The palace is surrounded by green lawns, ponds and trees. On ceremonial occasions, the palace and its grounds are gaily lit-up.
