National Museum (Muzium Negara)

Overview

Muzium Negara is Malaysia's principal museum, styled after a traditional Malay palace with a sweeping gable roof. Its four main galleries trace the nation's story from prehistoric origins through the Malay sultanates to colonial rule and independence.

Highlights

• Gallery A (Early History): Neolithic tools, bronze drums from Dongson culture, and the Perak Man skeleton—Southeast Asia's oldest complete human burial.
• Gallery D (Malaysia Today): Artefacts from Merdeka (independence) Day 1957, including original documents and photographs.
• Outdoor exhibits: Steam locomotives, traditional Malay houses, and Portuguese cannons.

History

The museum opened on 31 August 1963—Malaysia Day. Designed by Ho Kok Hoe, the building's distinctive Minangkabau-influenced roofline and entrance murals depicting Malaysian history were controversial at the time but are now heritage landmarks.

Visitor Tips

• Guided tours: Free English-language tours at 10:00 daily.
• Combine with Lake Gardens: Walk 5 minutes to the Perdana Botanical Garden.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.