Keeping the originality of the historical Stadium Merdeka

In conjunction with Merdeka, heritage tours around the stadium (left) and batik painting are offered.
The Edge Picture by by Mohd Izwan Mohd Nazam

This article first appeared in City & Country, The Edge Malaysia Weekly on September 2, 2024 - September 8, 2024.

The much-anticipated reopening of Stadium Merdeka finally happened on Aug 17 in conjunction with the Sultan of Selangor’s Cup, where Selangor edged out Singapore 2-1. The stadium was closed in 2016 to make way for the construction of the soon-to-be-opened Merdeka 118 tower.

Stadium Merdeka was the site where the formal declaration of independence was made on Aug 31, 1957, and then the proclamation of the birth of Malaysia on Sept 16, 1963.

Much of Stadium Merdeka today looks exactly like it did 67 years ago.
The Edge Picture by Mohd Izwan Mohd Nazam

Since then, the stadium has undergone renovations in the 1970s and 1980s as well as a comprehensive restoration process by PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd, which acquired the site in 2006 and now manages it under the Merdeka Heritage Trust, according to PNB Merdeka Ventures CEO Tengku Datuk Ab Aziz Tengku Mahmud in an email interview with City & Country. 

“The restoration process was divided into two phases. The first phase focused on restoring the stadium’s seating capacity to its original 20,000 seats, matching its appearance in 1957. Additionally, the ‘padang’ or field was returfed and restored to accommodate football matches. The second phase focused on the stadium’s original aesthetics in greater detail. The scoreboard was reconstructed to replicate its 1957 design. 

“The east terrace, including its kiosks and restrooms, was meticulously restored and equipped with updated features for people with disabilities, including a dedicated lift. To further elevate the stadium’s historical authenticity, the main entrance floor tiles were carefully replaced to replicate the original design. Additionally, new carpets were replaced for all three VIP rooms, ensuring harmony with the stadium’s classic interior,” he adds.

Exciting plans

A recent visit by City & Country shows that much of the stadium looks exactly like it did 67 years ago. That was precisely what PNB Merdeka Ventures hoped for during the restoration process, says Ab Aziz.

“We have been dedicated to preserving Stadium Merdeka as a dynamic venue that nurtures community spirit through a wide array of sports and entertainment activities. Envisioned as a vibrant hub, the stadium will host a diverse range of programmes, including yoga sessions, art workshops, heritage tours, zumba classes and community markets.”

The company has outsourced the organising of recreational and arts activities to an events management company while the heritage tours will be handled by representatives from the International Council on Monuments and Sites Malaysia. The running track is now also open to the public.

Additionally, there will also be occasional talks and performances, centred on community building and the preservation of cultural heritage. Ab Aziz adds, “Through [these activities], alongside our community markets that promote local businesses, the stadium will once again become a lively centre of activity.

“These events will not only draw visitors to the stadium but also generate foot traffic for nearby cultural attractions like Chinatown and Kampung Attap, highlighting the unique identity of the neighbourhood. This initiative will cultivate a more dynamic and inclusive atmosphere, making the area a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic experiences in Kuala Lumpur.”

The stadium will now operate on weekdays from 7am to 9am and 5pm to 7pm; and weekends from 7am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm. The site is accessible via public transport such as the Maharajalela Monorail station, Merdeka MRT station and Plaza Rakyat LRT station.

Importance of preserving our built heritage

On why it was significant to preserve a national treasure like this, Ab Aziz says the stadium plays a pivotal role in placemaking by fostering a profound sense of identity and national pride for Malaysians.

“As a symbol of Malaysia’s independence, it not only serves as a living monument to the nation’s history but also exemplifies the values of preservation and heritage. The stadium’s recognition with the Unesco Award of Excellence and its designation as a National Heritage Site underscore its significance and the importance of its conservation. 

“The stadium’s historical relevance adds depth to its contribution as a cultural landmark. By attracting tourists and serving as a vibrant cultural hub, Stadium Merdeka stimulates the local economy and elevates awareness about the importance of preserving built heritage. It provides a venue for cultural and community events, fostering social cohesion and encouraging cultural exchange. 

“This way, Stadium Merdeka not only celebrates Malaysia’s past but also ensures that future generations understand and value their historical legacy, reinforcing the role of such landmarks in shaping national identity and pride,” he explains.

Stadium Merdeka is part of the 40-acre Merdeka 118 precinct, which will comprise the Merdeka 118 tower, the 118 mall, serviced apartments, a hotel and Stadium Negara.

According to Ab Aziz, the revitalised Stadium Merdeka is poised to become the centrepiece the Merdeka 118 precinct. “By offering a range of engaging experiences, the stadium will enhance local pride and foster a cohesive community, ensuring that Merdeka 118 becomes a lively and integral part of daily life.”

As for Stadium Negara, which is yet to be reopened, Ab Aziz says this component will be repurposed in the future. “Our plans for Stadium Negara involve reimagining this historic landmark, renowned as Malaysia’s first indoor stadium with its iconic dome design.

“We aim to repurpose the space in innovative and exciting ways that will attract visitors and enhance the Merdeka 118 development. Our goal is to create a unique and memorable experience, integrating the stadium into the broader vision of Merdeka 118 while preserving its historical significance.”


Uploaded and adapted from the article published by The Edge on September 11, 2024.

The appearance and act on the above video are for illustration purpose only.

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Adapted by Fauzi Kadir
Chief Editor

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Nazura Othman


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