KUALA LUMPUR: Carcosa Seri Negara, one of Kuala Lumpur's most iconic historical landmarks, along with the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, is set to undergo a significant restoration to enhance their cultural value.
According to the Economic Outlook 2025 report released by the Ministry of Finance (MOF), Khazanah Nasional Bhd has allocated RM600 million for the restoration efforts, aimed at preserving Kuala Lumpur's status as a cultural and creative hub.
The funds will also be used to construct a multi-storey bridge connecting the Perdana Botanical Garden with Carcosa Seri Negara.
Sr Samuel Tan, chief executive officer of Olive Tree Property Consultants, emphasised the importance of preserving heritage buildings such as Carcosa Seri Negara and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
He told NST Property that Khazanah's initiative is timely, as Malaysia is preparing for Visit Malaysia 2026, which is expected to attract a large number of tourists, many of whom will be interested in historical sites.
The Economic Outlook 2025 report predicts Malaysia will benefit from a global recovery in the travel and tourism industry next year.
The government plans to boost promotional efforts for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 through strategic advertising and increased visibility at the World Expo.
Tan noted that the RM550 million allocated for Visit Malaysia 2026 is substantial and that Khazanah's plan to restore these two heritage buildings is a positive move.
"Not only will it boost tourism, but these landmarks are a legacy for future generations. It's crucial to maintain high standards of preservation to ensure their long-term condition," he said.
Carcosa Seri Negara, located within the Perdana Botanical Gardens, comprises two colonial-era mansions—Carcosa and Seri Negara—situated on a 12.14-hectare estate. Carcosa was built in 1897 by Sir Frank Swettenham, the first Resident General of the Federated Malay States, as his official residence. Seri Negara, constructed in 1913, served as a government guest house for high-profile dignitaries, earning the nickname "King's House."
During World War II, Carcosa Seri Negara became the headquarters for the Imperial Japanese Army in Malaya. Seri Negara's chambers were instrumental in the drafting of the Constitution of Malaya from 1955 to 1957. On Aug 5, 1957, the Merdeka Agreement, which secured Malaya's independence, was signed by the nine Malay rulers in Seri Negara.
As a gesture of goodwill, Tunku Abdul Rahman later gifted the deeds of Carcosa and its land to the British government. The building served as the residence of British High Commissioners until 1987, when it was returned to Malaysian ownership.
Following its return, both Carcosa and Seri Negara were restored and reopened as boutique hotels in 1989, preserving much of the original colonial architecture.
However, despite its grandeur, the hotel struggled to attract business and was shut down in 2015, leaving the buildings abandoned.