Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Merdeka Square

Just opposite the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is a large field which hold a significant value for the country.

It was here that the Malaysian flag was raised for the very first time at 0001 on 31st August 1957 to replace the Union Jack, thus signifying the end of British rule over Malaya and the end of colonisation.

It is also here that Malaysians regardless of race and belief, throng in the thousands on the eve of 31st August every year to usher in yet another year of independence.

At the very end of the square, stands a 95m flag pole which is among the tallest in the world

The Merdeka Square was previously known as the Selangor Club Padang which was built in 1884 by the British during their colonisation of Malaya. The strategic site and exclusive location resembled the atmosphere and environment of their homeland. The field was a popular venue for social activities and occasionally used for the game of cricket.

The club house is still operational until this very day and the figure "125" on it indicate that it just celebrated its 125th anniversary.

At the corner of the square stands a beautiful fountain which was built in 1897 and adorned with dog figures all around it.

2 comments:

wenn said...

nice pictures..i hvn't been there for quite some time already.

Reanaclaire said...

I also never been there for many many years! :)