KUALA LUMPUR – Heritage should not be regarded as a burden of the past but as a strategic asset capable of driving tourism, boosting the creative industry, creating job opportunities and strengthening the local business ecosystem, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, stressed that the revival of heritage buildings is a key strategy to attract both international and domestic visitors.
Citing the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (BSAS) along Jalan Raja as an example, he said its conservation is not merely about nostalgia but about ensuring history remains alive, understood and used as guidance in facing future challenges.
“This effort is at the core of the WARISAN KL initiative, a strategic approach by the government to revitalise Kuala Lumpur’s key heritage sites as catalysts for culture-based urban economic development,” he said in his speech at the ceremony to mark the completion of Phase 1 of the BSAS conservation here today.
The ceremony was honoured by the presence of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar were also in attendance.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the conservation of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (BSAS) is aligned with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) agenda, noting that Malaysia is recognised not only for its natural beauty and cultural diversity but also for the strength of its historical and civilisational narrative.
He stressed that revitalising heritage buildings is a key strategy to boost both international and domestic tourist arrivals, while at the same time reflecting the aspiration to build a modern and dynamic Kuala Lumpur that remains firmly rooted in history and values.
“As stated in the Budget 2026, the project covers all six blocks of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building complex, in addition to the conservation of Seri Negara and Carcosa at Bukit Carcosa.
We must also ensure that the people are able to enjoy these facilities. The conservation of BSAS is among the early manifestations that can be seen and experienced by the public; however, conservation cannot stop at structures alone. Heritage buildings must be brought to life,” he said.
Anwar added that BSAS will house the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery, which will showcase the journey of the building and the capital city through five themed spaces spanning three centuries of history.
The Prime Minister said the Royal Selangor Gallery will highlight pewter craftsmanship, reflecting Kuala Lumpur’s economic legacy, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit rooted in its tin mining history.
“I am confident that BSAS and this entire historic complex will continue to reflect the nation’s identity – a country that is advanced and progressive, yet remains connected to its historical roots, developing not only through economic strength but also through soul, values and humanity,” he said.
Anwar added that the presence of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim at the ceremony was not merely ceremonial, but a reminder that Malaysia’s journey remains anchored in history, guided by values and safeguarded by the institution of the Constitutional Monarchy.
“I would like to express my appreciation to all parties involved in making this effort a success, especially the team from Khazanah Nasional Berhad, as well as all the ministries and government agencies involved,” he said.
The Sultan Abdul Samad Building (BSAS) was named in honour of the late Sultan Abdul Samad ibni Almarhum Raja Abdullah, the Sultan of Selangor during its construction era, and was officially opened in 1897 by Frank Swettenham, the first British Resident-General of the Federated Malay States.
BSAS also holds a pivotal place in Malaysia’s history, witnessing the nation’s independence when the Union Jack was lowered at midnight on Aug 31, 1957, marking the end of British rule and the dawn of a sovereign nation. – January 31, 2026