The opening of Seri Negara marks a key milestone of Warisan KL initiative
Kuala Lumpur, 15 December 2025 — Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim today witnessed the completion of the restoration of Seri Negara, and its opening. The conservation and rejuvenation of Seri Negara – one of Malaysia’s most historically significant buildings where the 1957 Federation of Malaya Independence Agreement was signed marking Malaysia’s independence – is led by Khazanah Nasional, as part of their Dana Warisan programme.
Dato’ Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir, Managing Director of Khazanah, said, “We would like to record our sincerest appreciation to the Government for entrusting us to restore this iconic building, so crucial to our nation’s history. We are likewise grateful to all the partners who have assisted us in our endeavours. The restoration of Seri Negara is a profound responsibility and privilege for Khazanah. Our goal was not only to restore a building, but bring to life the spirit and stories that have shaped our nation. We hope that Seri Negara will become an inclusive, inspiring space where Malaysians and visitors alike can gain a deeper appreciation of our history and heritage.”
Under the national Warisan KL initiative, Khazanah has been entrusted to preserve and rejuvenate eight (8) significant Malaysian historic buildings which are Seri Negara and Carcosa located at Bukit Carcosa, and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (BSAS) Complex comprising Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad, Pejabat Pos Lama, the former Kuala Lumpur High Court, Panggung Bandaraya, the old FMS Survey Office and the National Textile Museum. Additionally, a pedestrian bridge linking Seri Negara and Carcosa to the Perdana Botanical Gardens Kuala Lumpur will also be built. RM600 million has been allocated by Khazanah to fund this initiative.
Dato’ Amirul Feisal further added, “This investment aligns with Khazanah’s domestic strategy which aims to boost connectivity and position KL as a dynamic, vibrant economic and cultural hub to create long-term value, strengthen national identity, and catalyse growth in the tourism, leisure, and creative sectors. Tourism has the potential to generate more than two times multiplier effect in boosting the local economy. Seri Negara is just the beginning. Khazanah will continue to work closely with government agencies, local authorities, and partners to activate these restored buildings as tourism offerings, public cultural spaces, educational touchpoints and a source of national pride for future generations.”
Seri Negara’s ten-month restoration journey preserves the authentic architectural character of the site while enhancing safety, accessibility, and public facilities, ensuring that all Malaysians can visit, experience, and reconnect with their shared heritage. Seri Negara will feature Gallery Seri Negara, that celebrates the nation’s journey towards independence and aims to educate the public on this critical period of Malaysia’s history. There will also be a café and a restaurant operated by Serai Group, offering a nostalgic dining experience that reflects Seri Negara’s historic charm while celebrating the best of Malaysian cuisines.
Semuka Cafe is now open to the public while Serai House will be opened only on reservation basis for the time being. As a Bangunan Warisan status building, guests will need to register through the Sahabat Seri Negara programme to visit the Gallery Seri Negara. Registration can be done at www.serinegara.com.my and guests can choose their preferred time slot. Admissions will be free for a limited introductory period, and registrants will receive further information on how to book their visit slots and participate in upcoming programmes.
