Merdeka Square, Malaysia

Dataran Merdeka, widely known as Merdeka Square, is Kuala Lumpur’s most well known monument and has a lot of historical significance attached to the name of the place. It is a renowned tourist attraction, and is located in front of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, while being surrounded by popular institutions such as the National Textile Museum and the City Gallery.

It was here that the Federation of Malaya was formally declared independent from British rule on the fateful night of August 31, 1957. It was a proud moment for all Malayans as the flag was hoisted atop the 95 meter flagpole in the center of Merdeka Square. Every year, the independence day parade, a massive celebration marking the independence of Malaysia from British rule, takes place in the Merdeka Square every single year on August 31st.

Several more attractions are present in the nearby locale as well, namely the Cop’s Fountain, Queen Victoria Fountain etc. A big screen has been put up just beside the flagpole which is used to display several commercials along with religious messages.

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• Witness the pride of Malaysia, the 95 meters tall flagpole in the middle of Dataran Merdeka, on which the Malayan flag was hoisted for the first time in 1957.
• See the black marble inscription beside the flagpole that marks the precise spot where the Malayan flag had first been hoisted after independence from the British.
• Catch the independence day parade, a massive celebration marking the independence of Malaysia from British rule, which takes place in the Merdeka Square every single year on August 31st.
• Pay homage to the Cop's Fountain, built in honour of a martyred police inspector named Steve Harper, as well as the Queen Victoria Fountain, which has 8 soaring lions in honour of Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee.
• Don’t miss out on the light and sound show which takes place in the Merdeka Square at 9 pm everyday.

By Bus: Several buses go to and from the Merdeka Square, considering that the place holds historical significance. It would take you approximately 22 minutes to reach and is the most affordable means of transport.

By Taxi/Cab: You could directly hire a taxi or a cab from the Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station to Merdeka Square. It would make you reach your destination in less than 5 minutes. But it would cost you around INR 200.

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Places to Visit Near Merdeka Square

Central Market: If you want to get some last minute shopping done or want to take souvenirs back home for your family, the Central Market is the perfect place for you. With the building made up of a few floors, there are numerous stalls which will offer you tiny trinkets as well as some local brands of clothing. 

Petaling Street: If you are tired of roaming around the entire day and are in dire need of some refreshments, Petaling Street has got you covered. It offers you some mouth watering street food along with a line of stalls and small shops, offering you tiny trinkets as well as some good looking dupes of popular brands. 

Cosmo’s World Theme Park: Another popular place located near Merdeka Square is Cosmo’s World Theme Park. Head over to Berjaya Times Square for a great time at the largest indoor theme park. It will satisfy the hunger for thrill with rides for people of all ages.

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Tips to Visit Merdeka Square

• To truly appreciate Dataran Merdeka’s liveliness, you must arrive at the night time, usually around midnight and particularly on weekends.
• If you do not want to miss the light and sound show which mesmerizes the visitors and captures their hearts, you must be at the Square by 9 pm. 
• If you decide to visit the place during the morning half to take a stroll across the luscious green grounds of the Square, remember to bring your sunglasses and sunscreen in order to protect your skin from the sun rays.
• Wear flats or walking shoes, preferably sneakers, if you visit the destination as it simply requires you to walk and view the various points of interests in the premises. 

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