National Palace

About National Palace

National palace of Malaysia

The Istana Negara (National Palace) is the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the King of Malaysia, located along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim (formerly Jalan Duta) near Taman Duta in north-western Kuala Lumpur, on the highest slope of a hill overlooking the Klang River about three kilometres from the city centre, next to the Urban Orchard park. The palace opened in 2011, replacing the old Istana Negara at a different compound in central Kuala Lumpur, which is now a royal museum. The complex covers 97.65 hectares and is crowned by 22 golden domes blending Malay and Islamic architecture. It is divided into three main portions: the Formal Component for ceremonies and receptions, the Royal Component housing the King and Queen, and the Administration Component. There are three entrances: the main gateway via the Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim flyover for the King and Queen, state sultans and governors, diplomats, heads of government and the prime minister; the Jalan Semantan–Dungun entrance for royal guests and VIPs; and the Jalan Sri Hartamas entrance for members of the public with appointments and for palace staff. Visitors normally come to the main gate to view the palace from a distance and photograph its gilded gate and the royal guards in traditional dress. If the flag is flying over the largest dome the King is in residence; a changing of the guard takes place at 11AM each day, and the palace opens to the public once a year on Eid al-Fitr, when visitors may exchange greetings with the King and are served a free lunch (Wikivoyage).

Where:

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia