With 1980s retro back in style, Dr Mahathir’s office at Galeria Sri Perdana reflects that era - simple, functional, and lined with his personal book collection. Photo: The Star/Low Boon Tat
History buffs and curious visitors alike now have a fresh reason to explore Bukit Persekutuan’s (Federal Hill) leafy slopes in Kuala Lumpur: Galeria Sri Perdana, the former official residence of Malaysia’s fourth prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, reopened to the public on July 10 - fittingly on his 100th birthday.
Under the stewardship of the National Archives of Malaysia (Arkib Negara Malaysia) since 2000, Galeria Sri Perdana is more than an architectural relic on Jalan Terengganu - it invites visitors to step into spaces where family life and official history unfolded, from dining areas to desks where key decisions were made.
National Archives Director General Datuk Jaafar Sidek Abdul Rahman said the RM12.76mil upgrade under the Eleventh Malaysia Plan will help preserve the building for future generations.
Dr Mahathir didn’t need to travel far for a trim - Galeria Sri Perdana had its own barber room for his personal grooming. Photo: The Star/Low Boon Tat
“The upgrading works covered everything from rewiring the air-conditioning and lighting systems to repairing structural elements and restoring the lush gardens that surround the gallery,” said Jaafar at the recent opening ceremony.
He added that the revitalised museum space aims to help Malaysians connect with the nation’s history, culture and leaders.
After extensive conservation, the historic residence now serves as a public gallery/museum and educational tourism centre.
Once called “Sri Timah,” this bungalow began as a property of the Malaysia Mining Corporation before it was repurposed by the government as the residence of Dr Mahathir and his family (between August 1983 and October 1999, before he moved to Putrajaya).
Today, visitors can explore three exhibition levels at Galeria Sri Perdana, where over 3,500 personal items belonging to Dr Mahathir are displayed - from everyday furniture and family dining sets to vehicles, documents, shoes and traditional Malay attire.
Dr Mahathir’s official Proton Perdana, bearing the ‘Proton 2020’ plate, now stands parked outside as a nod to his vision of modern Malaysia. Photo: The Star/Low Boon Tat
The Main Guest area - a spacious hall - hosted ceremonies and gatherings ranging from courtesy visits by local and international guests to annual Hari Raya gift-giving for military and police personnel. Intimate press conferences, "doa selamat" and congregational prayers, wedding solemnisations, and even newborn hair-trimming ceremonies for grandchildren all took place here, making it a space rich in personal and national memories.
In July 1993, the late Yasser Arafat, the emblematic leader of the Palestinian national movement, was also received by Dr Mahathir in this main meeting area.
For visitors, exploring private spaces like the Bedroom and Family Dining Room alongside official areas offers a glimpse into two very different worlds.
In a modest corner on the second floor, a "barbershop" still stands. This was where Dr Mahathir sat for haircuts by his trusted barber Mohan Muthupandithan, who came by request. More than a grooming spot, it reveals how small routines fit into the prime minister’s busy schedule. Visitors today can see this humble space and reflect on the ordinary moments behind an extraordinary public life.
One of the lounge areas at Galeria Sri Perdana where Dr Mahathir once welcomed guests. Photo: The Star/Low Boon Tat
A display case featuring his personal collection of hats is also a conversation starter.
Few also know that Dr Mahathir is an avid woodworker, a hobby he has cherished since childhood. A carpentry room in Sri Perdana offered him a space to unwind, crafting everything from model aircraft and government emblems to bookshelves and sculptures. Here, visitors glimpse the quiet pastime that balanced the demands of leadership.
After pandemic closures and major conservation work, Galeria Sri Perdana's reopening comes as local tourism picks up, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Malaysia’s modern history.
Galeria Sri Perdana is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 5pm, and closed on Mondays except during school holidays. Admission is free.
