Mahathir’s old home in KL reopens to public after makeover
Sign up now: Get insights on the biggest stories in Malaysia
Visitors can explore three exhibition levels at Galeria Sri Perdana, including Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's former home office.
PHOTO: THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
Follow topic:
KUALA LUMPUR - History buffs and curious visitors alike now have a fresh reason to explore Federal Hill’s leafy slopes in Kuala Lumpur, after Galeria Sri Perdana, the former official residence of Malaysia’s fourth prime minister Mahathir Mohamad, reopened to the public on July 10 – fittingly, on his 100th birthday.
Under the stewardship of the National Archives of Malaysia since 2000, Galeria Sri Perdana is more than an architectural relic in 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 Jaafar Sidek Abdul Rahman said the RM12.76 million (S$3.8 million) upgrade under the 11th Malaysia Plan will help preserve the building for future generations.
“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,” he said at the residence’s recent opening ceremony.
Following the extensive conservation, the historic residence now serves as a public gallery and museum, and educational tourism centre.
The revitalised museum space aims to help Malaysians connect with the nation’s history, culture and leaders, Datuk Jaafar added.
Once called “Sri Timah”, Galeria Sri Perdana began as a property of the Malaysia Mining Corporation before it was repurposed by the government as the residence of Tun Dr Mahathir and his family between August 1983 and October 1999, when he moved to Putrajaya.
Visitors can explore three exhibition levels at the bungalow, 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.
When he lived there, the former prime minister did not need to travel far for a trim – Galeria Sri Perdana had its own barber room.
His official Proton Perdana, bearing the “Proton 2020” licence plate, is now parked outside as a nod to his vision of modern Malaysia.
The main guest area is a spacious hall that 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 (thanksgiving prayer sessions) 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.
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s official Proton Perdana, bearing the “Proton 2020” licence plate, now stands parked outside as a nod to his vision of modern Malaysia.
PHOTO: THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
For visitors, exploring private spaces such as 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 former prime minister’s busy schedule. Visitors today can see this humble space and reflect on the ordinary moments behind an extraordinary public life.
A display case featuring his personal collection of hats is also a conversation starter.
Dr Mahathir did not need to travel far for a trim -- Galeria Sri Perdana had its own barber room.
PHOTO: THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
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 can glimpse the quiet pastime that balanced the demands of leadership.
After Covid-19 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.
It is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, from 9am to 5pm, and closed on Mondays except during school holidays. Admission is free. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
