CHARTING THE COURSE OF MERDEKA
Where Malaysia’s
Story Found a Home
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Open everyday
(Except Monday) - 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
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Persiaran Tuanku Ja’afar,
Tasik Perdana
50480, Kuala Lumpur
WP Kuala Lumpur
- +60 11 2700 3616
Event Calendar
Upcoming Event
- 24/12
Shifting Landscapes: Mapping Space, Time and Memory @Seri Negara
- 11:00am - 7:00pm
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- Ruang Merdeka: Galeri Khazanah
Introduction to Seri Negara
A Historic Home That Shaped a Nation
Step inside a residence that once hosted dignitaries, great minds, and the leaders who shaped the nation’s future. What began as a colonial guesthouse would one day become the backdrop of nationhood.
Opened in 1913 as the official guesthouse for British administrators, Seri Negara, first known as Government House, has embraced many identities. It was later renamed King’s House, followed by Istana Tetamu, before receiving the name Seri Negara that we recognise today.
Set high above the Lake Gardens, now known as the Perdana Botanical Gardens, Seri Negara and its sister residence Carcosa stood as symbols of prestige throughout the British era. Yet this house carried a destiny far beyond its role as a grand residence.
As the nation moved towards self-governance, Seri Negara became a pivotal venue for decision-making that shaped the country’s future. Leaders gathered here to negotiate constitutional frameworks and the direction of the nation. The house witnessed defining milestones, including the signing of the Federation of Malaya Agreement in 1948 and the Independence Agreement in 1957, key moments that paved the way towards nationhood.
Today, Seri Negara begins a new life as a public cultural space, restored and revitalised to honour its legacy as the cradle of national identity. Visitors can walk through the rooms where history unfolded and experience the atmosphere that once shaped the nation’s most important decisions.
This restoration is part of Khazanah Nasional Berhad’s Dana Warisan mandate to protect national heritage. Through Budget 2023 Malaysia MADANI and the Warisan KL initiative, Carcosa and Seri Negara are being renewed for future generations to explore, appreciate, and be inspired by.
Heritage Redefined — History, Art, and Coffee in Modern Comfort.
Explore curated galleries and dine within Seri Negara’s historic setting.
Galeri Seri Negara
Step into galleries that reveal the milestones, struggles, and triumphs behind Malaysia’s road to Merdeka.
Ruang Merdeka
Experience a rotating collection of artworks that celebrate Malaysia’s heritage, culture, and creative expression.
Opening from 20 December
Walk-Ins Welcome · Reservations Available
Semuka Café
Opening To Be Announced
Serai house
Through the Lens of Heritage: Our Gallery
Where History Lives in Every Detail
Gallery 1:
Seri Negara: The Wall Speaks
Inviting viewers to experience history through the building’s perspective to appreciate Seri Negara’s role as a silent witness to the nation’s most defining moments.
1857
1900
Gallery 2:
People, Power, and Place
Meet the communities, thinkers, and everyday citizens whose resilience and cultural strength laid the groundwork for a modern Malaya.
1900
1948
Gallery 3:
Merdeka and Nationhood
Enter the rooms where constitutional milestones were forged and witness how Seri Negara became the stage for Malaya’s journey to independence.
1946
1957
Gallery 4:
Celebrating Malaysia: Voices, Visions, and Hopes
Experience Malaysia’s post-independence story through its symbols, culture, and collective aspirations for a united and vibrant future.
- getting here
Seri Negara is located within the green lung of Kuala Lumpur, just minutes from the city centre. With easy access by car and ride-hailing services, the journey is both convenient and pleasantly scenic.
- VISITOR FACILITIES
We offer essential visitor facilities for comfort and convenience, including rest areas, surau, washrooms, and accessible pathways.
