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The Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia is proverbial for so many reasons and one of them is the Istana Negara, Jalan Istana. This visually commanding landmark is home to the king and queen of Malaysia. Yep, you read it right; Malaysia has a kingdom of its own. Let’s give you a bit of history here: Malaysia’s Malay Kingdoms originated from the 18th century where they became subject to the British Empire. Since then, Malaysia has become "Truly Asia", but there are still bits and pieces of architecture, dogmas, and touches of British colonization.
Almost always, travelers going here in this country would check out the Petronas and that’s it. Everything else is seen as secondary. But, if truth be told, there are also other valuable sites worth seeing – like this one. It’s like seeing the famous castle of MY!
Once you reach this place, you will be dazed by the spaciousness of the area. You’ll witness how hectares and acres of land play around with some slopes and hills around the area. The grand landscape and overall architecture are impressive as it is. The brains behind this illustrious landmark must have given much consideration on security, hospitality, and global opulence. The place has the right amount of tourist friendliness and grandeur, but at the same time, it allows enough security and privacy for the royal family to enjoy quality time with each other.
You’ll see the Royal Insignia spread strategically around the area. You’ll also see two guard posts to shelter members of the cavalry in their full dress uniform (similar to the ones at Buckingham Palace, London). This is where all the mini-action happens as tourists flock this area to get their pictures with the guards in uniform.
Actually, the palace where the royal family lives is not open to tourists. But, this does not mean that there is no room for appreciation outside the place. The front of the Istana Negara, which resembles like an arch from the medieval times, where everything is about detail and perfection, is more than enough preview of the grand place.
You’ll need to spend around one hour at most just to see this palace, as there are no areas for recreation, or eating, or buying souvenir stuffs. It’s a place for appreciation, and paying respect, and learning the Malaysian system. It’s a perfect quick side trip if you visit this country and you have a few more hours to spare. It won’t disappoint the yearning culture-warrior - let's go, MY Kingdom.
Address: Jalan Duta, Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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