Kuala Lumpur’s iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building, beautifully restored and revitalised with heritage galleries, visitor spaces, and vibrant cafes
THE Sultan Abdul Samad Building (BSAS) reopened on February 2 (Monday) following nearly a year of restoration, and it looks absolutely gorgeous!
A heritage landmark in Kuala Lumpur, BSAS once housed the High Courts of Malaya before they moved to the Kompleks Mahkamah at Jalan Duta in 2007. The Federal Court and Court of Appeal had relocated to Putrajaya in 2000.
The two-storey building was where major cases were heard and decided, with countless people walking in and out on a daily basis.
Located opposite Dataran Merdeka, the building underwent a year-long restoration to preserve its distinctive architectural charm while maintaining its historical value.
Videos circulating online reveal the building has been transformed into a bright, stunning space.
To celebrate the reopening milestone, the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery is offering free admission during the first month.
Block 1 of the BSAS Complex was opened after 11 months of conservation and restoration works undertaken under Khazanah Nasional Bhd’s Dana Warisan, an initiative under the Warisan Kuala Lumpur initiative. Its reopening was timely, in support of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
The complex consists of multiple structures: the BSAS itself, Pejabat Pos Lama (Old Post Office), the former Kuala Lumpur High Court building, Panggung Bandaraya, the former Federated Malay States Survey Office, and the National Textile Museum.
Additional infrastructure development includes a pedestrian bridge connecting Seri Negara and Carcosa to the Perdana Botanical Gardens Kuala Lumpur, scheduled for completion by year-end.
Khazanah has committed RM600 million in total funding for the Dana Warisan initiative. Restoration activities for the remaining buildings within the complex will proceed in stages throughout upcoming years.
The phased approach to restoration reflects Khazanah’s commitment to preserving Malaysia’s architectural heritage while adapting these spaces for contemporary public use and economic contribution.
Today, the building is not just about history but alive with activity. Visitors can explore Kaw Kaw Malaya, BakeHouse by KLCG, The Café by Royal Selangor, Courthouse Café and Gula Camca, alongside immersive exhibitions spaces and galleries, a one-stop visitor centre, an experiential retail and craft- making spaces.
BSAS has not only been restored but rejuvenated, blending heritage and modern vibrancy in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
