From postal hub to cultural space: The story of KL’s old General Post Office
KUALA LUMPUR, May 24 — Dataran Merdeka boasts many historical elements, but one of the most eye-catching architectural buildings is the old General Post Office (GPO), which evokes a deep history in Malaysia’s postal system.
Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s heritage area, the GPO stands strong at the intersection of Jalan Hishamuddin and Jalan Raja, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
For easier navigation, the GPO sits right opposite Dataran Merdeka’s flagpole and beside the National Textile Museum.
Once serving as the nation’s postal facility, the building is now a symbol of the country’s evolution and resilience over the years.
Opened in 1907, the GPO is one of the most spectacular post offices ever built in Malaysia.
Designed by British architect A.B. Hubback in 1902, he significantly influenced the architectural landscape of Kuala Lumpur, including Masjid Jamek and KL Railway Station between 1894 and 1914.
The GPO showcased a unique Mughal-influenced design, featuring repetitive pointed horseshoe arches lining the ground and upper floors, which harmoniously complemented its neighbouring structures, including the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
It is the only Indo-Saracenic building Hubback designed without a dome.
Before the GPO was completed, the Post Office was operating from small huts near the railway terminus in the 1880s and then moved to the then Post and Telegraph building at the south side of the Padang (which was demolished in 1899 and replaced by the old Government Printing Office).
However, by the early 1900s, the growing demand for postal services rendered the space inadequate.
The superintendent of the Post Office at that time, A. Baxendale, wrote to the Resident of Selangor, Sir Henry Conway Belfield, on September 5, 1902, advocating for larger premises. This petition ultimately led to the construction of the GPO we admire today.
GPO’s evolution over time
The establishment of the GPO marked a significant milestone in the development of Malaysia’s postal services.
Built at a cost of Straits $100,000 by Singapore contractors Walter Pallister — who also built the Kallang Tunnel in Singapore — the GPO quickly became a central hub for communication and commerce.
It offered vital services such as mail delivery and telegrams to the public.
Over its decades of operation, the GPO witnessed the transformation of Kuala Lumpur from a small mining town into a bustling metropolis.
Its architectural beauty and strategic significance rendered it an iconic landmark, symbolising the nation’s connectivity and progress throughout its history.
The GPO ultimately ceased postal services when operations were relocated to the present General Post Office building (Pejabat Pos Besar Kuala Lumpur) at the Dayabumi Complex along Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock in 1984.
Following the occupation of courts at the Sultan Abdul Samad Building in 1992, the GPO was subsequently fully occupied by the judiciary, and both buildings were connected by a link bridge.
From 2003, the judiciary began relocating to the new Palace of Justice in Putrajaya, with its last offices remaining in the building until 2007.
In 2008, the then Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Ministry occupied the building, with one of its departments, Jabatan Warisan Negara, moving in from 2015 until 2024.
What it is now: A new chapter
Today, the old General Post Office is experiencing a remarkable transformation as part of a cultural renaissance in the area.
The restoration exercise was aimed at converting the historic site into a cultural and arts centre, a vibrant venue that celebrates Malaysia’s rich heritage.
This new initiative aims to host retail outlets, artisanal shops and event spaces to promote Malaysia’s heritage to both local and international tourists.
Visitors to the revitalised GPO will enjoy curated retail and dining experiences alongside appreciating the building’s architectural grandeur.
How to get there?
Visiting the old General Post Office in Kuala Lumpur is hassle-free thanks to the city’s extensive transportation network.
Here are several options for reaching this historical landmark:
LRT: For those using the LRT, you can get off at Masjid Jamek Station on the Kelana Jaya Line. From there, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to the old GPO. Simply head towards Dataran Merdeka and follow the signage towards the heritage area.
KTM Komuter: Another convenient option is to take the KTM Komuter train. The nearest station is Kuala Lumpur Station, located just a 10-minute walk from the GPO.
Bus services: Numerous bus services operate in the vicinity, including the GoKL City Bus, which offers free rides around the city centre. The nearest stop is Dataran Merdeka, just a short stroll from the GPO.
Driving to the GPO: For those opting to drive, navigating to the old General Post Office is straightforward. The approach can be made via Jalan Hishamuddin or Jalan Raja. However, parking in the area can be limited due to road closures during weekends.
Parking options:
Street parking: Limited metered parking spaces can be found along nearby streets. Be sure to pay attention to parking signs to avoid fines.
Dataran Merdeka parking: Offers an underground parking facility located adjacent to Dataran Merdeka and is just a short walk from the GPO. However, parking is limited and visitors may need to spend some time looking for a spot.
المصدر: Malay Mail
