Opening Hours
- Tuesday to Thursday: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm
- Saturday & Sunday: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm
- Friday & Monday: Close
Location
- Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, Bandar Alor Setar, 05150 Alor Setar, Kedah
Entrance Fees
- Free
Telephone No.
- 04-733 3288
Parking Tips
Free Parking.
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Alor Setar, Rumah Merdeka stands as a testament to Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and history. This charming establishment, once the residence of Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past while providing a serene escape from the bustling city life.
In this review, we will learn who Tunku Abdul Rahman, the proud owner of Rumah Merdeka was, while uncovering the historical significance and architectural beauty of the house. Get ready to indulge into our 13 best reviews of Rumah Merdeka which will surely inspire you to include this attraction in your Kedah travel itinerary and see for yourself why it deserves a spot on your travel list.
Who is Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj?
YTM Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj was Malaysia’s first Prime Minister and is fondly remembered as the Father of Independence (Bapa Kemerdekaan) and Father of Malaysia (Bapa Malaysia). He played a pivotal role in leading the nation to freedom from British colonial rule, famously declaring Merdeka on 31 August 1957. Beyond politics, he was a unifying figure who shaped Malaysia’s early identity and laid the foundations for a democratic and independent nation.
History of Rumah Merdeka, Alor Setar, Kedah
Rumah Merdeka, also known as “Independence House”, is one of the most significant historical sites in Malaysia located in Alor Setar, Kedah. This charming residence was once owned by Che Menjalara, the mother of the late YTM Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj. She later gifted the land to Tunku.
During the Japanese Occupation in 1942, Tunku built a wooden house here, known as Rumah Jalan Baru. In 1953, he replaced it with a brick structure while keeping the wooden section as the upper floor. This new home, costing around RM20,000, became popularly known as Rumah Merdeka, a name known by his close friends such as Senu Abdul Rahman, Mohd Khir Johari, and Tan Cheng Lock.
Throughout his tenure as Prime Minister, Rumah Merdeka served as Tunku’s retreat whenever he returned to Kedah, and he continued to frequent it after his retirement. Beyond being a personal residence, it was also a discreet meeting place where Tunku held private discussions with UMNO leaders and government officials on political and national matters.
The house played an important role in Malaysian politics, as it was here that Tunku developed and organized his winning election strategies for the 1955, 1959, 1964, and 1969 general elections. It was also where he spent his leisure time writing, completing scripts for two notable films, Mahsuri and Raja Bersiong.
On 27 May 1966, Rumah Merdeka hosted a pivotal meeting when a Goodwill Mission of 20 Indonesian military officers, led by Rear Admiral O.B. Sjaaf, met with Tunku to address the tense Confrontation between Malaysia and Indonesia. This meeting paved the way for preliminary meeting held on 7 June 1966 in Bangkok between Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and Adam Malik. The process culminated with the signing of the final agreement on 11 August 1966 in Jakarta, officially ending the prolonged conflict.
(Source : National Archives of Malaysia)
Directory of Rumah Merdeka
This directory helps visitors explore Rumah Merdeka. It shows that the compound includes the office, Rumah Merdeka itself, a prayer room, and toilets.
13 Best Reviews of Rumah Merdeka, Alor Setar, Kedah
1. Free Entrance!
First of all, the entrance to Rumah Merdeka in Alor Setar is FREE! With the free entrance, it invites history enthusiasts and curious travelers to explore the vintage beauty of the residence while learning about the historical moments and rich heritage that shaped the nation.
2. Ample Parking Spaces
Rumah Merdeka also provides visitors with the convenience of spacious parking areas, making it easy for both individuals and groups to access the site. The large open space accommodates many vehicles, ensuring a hassle-free experience even during weekends or peak visiting times. This practicality adds to the overall comfort of exploring the historic house and its surroundings.
3. Strategic Location
The house is situated on Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, conveniently located behind the Royale Hotel, and is generally easy to reach. However, due to ongoing construction in nearby, the location can be a little tricky to find when driving, which has led to fewer visitors according to the caretaker. For those who choose to walk, the route is much easier and more straightforward.
4. Experience Stepping into the House of Malaysia’s First Prime Minister
This former residence of Tunku Abdul Rahman, the nation’s first Prime Minister, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life and times of a pivotal figure in Malaysian history. Stepping inside, you can sense the heritage charm of the house while exploring the very rooms where key political discussions once took place.
5. Discover a Heritage House Standing Strong for Over 80 Years
Established in 1942, the house was named by Tunku himself, reflecting his vision for a free and independent nation. Today, it stands as a testament to Malaysia’s rich history and the legacy of its founding father, making it one of the must-visit destinations in Malaysia for both locals and tourists alike.
6. Beautiful Exterior: A Sight to Behold
The exterior of Rumah Merdeka, adorned with traditional Malaysian design elements, provides a stunning backdrop for photos. Visitors can enjoy a small fish pond complete with a cozy gazebo, perfect for relaxing while taking in the atmosphere.
The house is surrounded by lush greenery and lies close to Anak Bukit River, adding a refreshing natural backdrop to the historic setting. One of the highlights outside is the original Sri Banang boat, which Tunku Abdul Rahman used for his hobby of enjoying the river scenery and connecting with nature.
To top it all off, the Malaysian flags proudly displayed around the house create a patriotic ambiance, reminding visitors of the nation’s journey toward independence.
7. Well-Preserved Interior of Rumah Merdeka
Upon entering Rumah Merdeka, guests are greeted by a well-preserved interior that reflects the era in which Tunku Abdul Rahman lived. The house is adorned with various artifacts and exhibits that narrate the story of Malaysia’s journey to independence, providing context and depth to the experience.
8. The Only Air-Conditioned Space Called Bilik Sejuk
One notable feature of Rumah Merdeka is the Bilik Sejuk, the only air-conditioned room in the house. This room not only provides comfort but also showcases the lifestyle of Tunku Abdul Rahman during his time. Today, the entire area is air-conditioned to ensure visitors remain comfortable, especially during peak visiting hours.
9. Discover Tunku’s Hobbies and Personal Collections
Rumah Merdeka also offers a glimpse into the personal side of Tunku Abdul Rahman through displays of his hobbies and treasured items. Some of Tunku’s hobbies were golfing, fishing, hunting, and he also had a deep interest in photography.
Besides that, visitors can also see his collection of ties and walking sticks, which he often used during both official and informal occasions, giving a more intimate perspective on the personality and lifestyle of Malaysia’s first Prime Minister.
10. A Glimpse into the Bedrooms at Merdeka House
The bedrooms at the upper floor of Rumah Merdeka highlight the family-oriented side of the residence. Visitors will find rooms dedicated to Tunku Abdul Rahman and his wife, Tun Sharifah Rodziah, as well as bedrooms for their son, Tunku Amat Nerang, and their daughter, Tunku Khadijah. Together, these spaces provide a fuller picture of the household that once brought life to this historic home.
(Sources: Oral History, National Archives of Malaysia)
11. A Walkthrough of the Other Spaces in the House
Beyond the bedrooms, Rumah Merdeka features a variety of spaces that showcase both functionality and heritage charm. On the first floor, visitors can explore the living room, dining room, cozy lounges, and both the dry and wet kitchens, with the former wet kitchen now converted into an office.
Moving upstairs, the second floor includes a reading and music room, a prayer room, and a bathroom, each space reflecting the daily rhythms of life in this historic home.
(Sources: Oral History, National Archives of Malaysia)
12. Other Handy Tips to Know Before Visiting
- Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the house.
- Visitors will need to register their names in the visitor book upon arrival.
- There is no café in Rumah Merdeka, so it’s best to eat beforehand. However, drinking water is provided via Coway dispensers for thirsty visitors. You may find restaurants that are available in the city nearby.
- There are also toilets and prayer room (surau) provided for added convenience.
- The ongoing construction nearby may not appear on maps when driving. However, walking is easier if you stay at nearby hotels, but do take extra care if traveling alone.
- Barrier ropes are in place to protect the heritage items. Hence, be mindful, especially if you are visiting with children.
- Solo travelers visiting during off-peak hours may find the atmosphere slightly eerie.
13. More Photos of Rumah Merdeka
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rumah Merdeka stands out as a hidden gem in Alor Setar, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Its charming architecture and serene environment make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, a visit to Rumah Merdeka is sure to leave a lasting impression, making it a must-see destination in Kedah.
