Malaysia is a mingling of the traditional and modern in a flamboyant, tropical setting. It is an important commercial, business, educational and tourist hub in the region and has hundreds of visitors each year from all over the globe. There are many options available for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur and if you are looking for suitable accommodation that provides contemporary comfort and luscious living, the Berjaya Times Square Hotel that is conveniently located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur would be a suitable choice for your Malaysian stay.
A major attraction in Kuala Lumpur is the Royal Palace or the Istana Negara. It was originally built in 1928 for Chinese millionaire Chang Wing. During the Japanese occupation of Malaysia it was the residence of the Japanese Governor and subsequently was an officers’ mess under the British. It was rented by the Government of Selangor and renovated as the Palace of the Sultan of Selangor. Then the Federal Government of Malaysia bought it and turned it into Istana Negara or the Royal Palace of the Malaysian King also known as the Yang di Pertuan Agong. The First Installation Ceremony for His Majesty DYMM Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di Pertuan Agong was held here.
Istana Negara is located on a hilly slope overlooking the Klang River along Jalan Syed Putra Road. Set in acres of lush gardens, the wall bordering the Istana Negara has the Malaysian Court Of Arms featuring the Royal Insignia of the King. The Istana Negara has two wings- the East Wing and the West Wing. A driveway lined with casuarinas and Cyprus trees lined along the drive way, leads to the entrance to the two wings. The East Wing houses the Balairong Seri or the Throne Room and some thematic rooms. The West Wing houses the King’s Meeting Room and the gardens include a golf course and a lake.
The Palace is not open to the public and can be viewed from the front entrance guarded by two mounted members of the Royal Cavalry. In 2011 a new Royal Palace was built at Jalan Duta.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.
