Since the country’s Independence, Istana Negara or the National Palace has been the official palace of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
The current Istana Negara has been the official residence of the nation’s King since 2011. Its focus on Islamic and Malay traditions is a theme that features extensively in almost every part of this magnificent structure.
The King serves as the head of Islam in all states irrespective of whether they have Sultans or Rulers, and this is provided for under the Federal Constitution, says constitutional expert Assoc Prof Dr Shamrahayu Abdul Aziz.
“Being the nation’s supreme head, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong takes the official oath to preserve and protect the Islamic faith.
“Be that as it may, other religions are also protected under the Constitution and His Majesty has the responsibility to safeguard the position of other communities, including their freedom of religion,” said Dr Shamrahayu.
The palace has a total of 22 domes, with the main dome reaching up to 60m. Designed after a sireh (betel leaf) arrangement often presented at Malay weddings, the entire structure is meant to showcase the sovereignty of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong.
The palace situated in Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim (formerly known as Jalan Duta), Kuala Lumpur, spreads across a 97.65ha area.
Standing as a symbol and centrepiece of the nation’s constitutional monarchy and the position of Islam as the main religion, it defines the Malaysian identity.
The palace also houses other facilities such as a surau that can accommodate up to 1,000 worshippers, a security office, visitors square, underground parking, multi-purpose hall, medical treatment room, helipad, stables, elevated roads, and sports facilities including a swimming pool.
Each suite and royal hall is distinctively decorated with traditional Malay-themed ornate carvings, drawings and designs with Islamic features.
Islamic elements are also evident in the three-dimensional geometry carvings of Quranic verses and lamps used throughout the palace, especially in the surau.
As visitors walk into the main lobby, they will find themselves under a dome that is 40m above ground – as high as a 10-storey building – fitted with a magnificent chandelier custommade in Kuala Selangor.
The massive dome is surrounded by large round pillars with eight paintings depicting the country’s history from the Malacca Sultanate up to the present time.
Istana Negara has suites and halls built for specific uses and purposes. The Balairong Seri or the main throne room, has been used for official functions – including ceremonial occasions of taking the royal pledge, installation ceremony of a new King and the appointment of a new prime minister and the federal government.
Other formal occasions held here include the investiture ceremonies and the taking of oaths by the government ministers and state governors. This is also where the presentation and acceptance of foreign diplomatic appointments are held. It sometimes serves as a banquet hall.
The iconic royal throne room is intricately designed with Malay traditional carvings and calligraphy of Quranic verses. They also include the handiwork of famous woodcarving masters from Kelantan and Terengganu.
The royal section of the palace is specially designed for the use of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Raja Permaisuri Agong and members of the royal family. It consists of bedrooms, the King’s office, dining and living rooms, as well as rooms for royal guests.
The well-manicured and landscaped garden is an equally prominent feature of the royal palace.
Istana Negara started operations on Nov 11, 2011, during Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin’s tenure as the nation’s 13th King.
Previously, the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong was at Istana Negara Lama along Jalan Istana.
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