Inside The Federal Kuala Lumpur’s revamp: Restored 1957 details, Art Deco windows and new spaces

The refurbished reception area at The Federal Kuala Lumpur blends warm timber finishes with retro-inspired details following the hotel’s first phase of renovations. — Picture by Choo Choy May

By Arif Zikri

First Published: Saturday, 19 Sep 2026 3:07 PM MYT

Last Modified: Saturday, 19 Sep 2026 3:12 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 — Malaysia’s first international-class hotel, The Federal Kuala Lumpur, has unveiled new additions and several restored heritage features following its official reopening.

The historic landmark in the heart of Bukit Bintang first opened its doors just days before Merdeka, on August 28, 1957.

Following a carefully considered renovation process that began in 2024, the hotel has returned with a contemporary update while retaining elements of its original character.

The Federal Kuala Lumpur, which first opened on August 28, 1957, has reopened following the first phase of a major renovation. — Picture by Choo Choy May

Among the heritage features uncovered during renovation were exposed concrete beams bearing timber formwork imprints and a historic mosaic staircase dating from 1957.

The staircase was subsequently conserved, along with the hotel’s original gilded cast-iron entrance metalwork.

The renovation team also restored The Federal Kuala Lumpur’s signature circular Art Deco façade windows, while the guestrooms have been fully updated with clean lines and warm, natural materials.

Guestrooms at The Federal Kuala Lumpur have been updated with clean lines, warm natural materials and contemporary finishes. — Picture by Choo Choy May

New additions include a coffered ceiling, curved structural forms, terrazzo-inspired finishes and retro-influenced furnishings, as well as a dedicated art gallery and a social lounge designed as an informal living room overlooking Jalan Bukit Bintang.

“For decades, this landmark has stood as a living testament to Malaysia’s vibrant history and hospitality,” Low Yat Group executive director Datuk Low Gee Teong said.

“The Federal Hotel, or as it is affectionately known as the Hotel for Merdeka, was built specifically to serve the needs of our emerging nation.

“It is far more than a hotel; it is a living piece of Malaysian heritage.”

Speaking at the hotel’s official reopening ceremony yesterday, Gee Teong said that by revitalising the historic corner of Jalan Bukit Bintang, the group hoped not only to strengthen the local tourism ecosystem but also to drive digital and physical footfall in the area, supporting surrounding businesses and the community.

Low Yat Group business development manager Low Kian Leong pictured against an archival image of The Federal Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding Bukit Bintang neighbourhood. — Picture by Choo Choy May

Meanwhile, Low Yat Group business development manager Low Kian Leong said the renovation presented its own challenges, particularly given the age of the building.

“I was part of the project team from start to finish, and throughout the renovation, we continuously uncovered M&E (mechanical and electrical) issues that were not indicated in the original drawings from 69 years ago.

“There were pipes hidden in pillars that we didn’t know about, walls that turned out not to be where we expected them to be, pipes would burst and things like that, so the team had to constantly adapt to whatever we encountered. It was tough work for everyone.

“So throughout the renovation, our focus was on safety, quality and responsible delivery wherever possible,” he said.

The Federal Kuala Lumpur’s new dedicated art gallery traces the history of the Merdeka-era hotel through photographs, archival material and memorabilia. — Picture by Choo Choy May

Kian Leong said guests could expect more than updated interiors following the reopening.

“As we reopen The Federal, guests can expect refreshed surroundings, enhanced comfort and the service standards that define us.

“But our most important feature remains our people. We are here to welcome everyone, from business travellers and families to event guests and anyone else,” he said.

Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board chairman Datuk Manoharan Periasamy officiates the reopening of The Federal Kuala Lumpur on September 18, 2026. — Picture by Choo Choy May

He also revealed that the completed work represents only the first phase of plans for the building, with construction on phase two set to begin next year. An international brand is also expected to join the development.

The reopening ceremony was also attended by Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board chairman Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) Arts, Culture and Tourism director Faizal Mahmood and Tourism Malaysia deputy director-general (Planning) Wizani Rosmin.