# The Federal Kuala Lumpur Reopens with Heritage Revamp

> Malaysia's first international-class hotel blends restored 1957 Merdeka-era features with new spaces after 2024 renovation.
- Title: The Federal Kuala Lumpur Reopens with Heritage Revamp
- Summary: Malaysia's first international-class hotel blends restored 1957 Merdeka-era features with new spaces after 2024 renovation. The Federal Kuala Lumpur reopened…
- Keywords: the federal kuala lumpur, merdeka, art deco, restored 1957, low gee teong, low kian leong, malaysia tourism promotion board, bukit bintang, renovation phase one, historic mosaic staircase, gilded entrance, news
- Source: Malay Mail — https://malaymail.com/news/life/2026/09/19/inside-the-federal-kuala-lumpurs-revamp-restored-1957-details-art-deco-windows-and-new-spaces/235771
- Author: Arif Zikri
- Published: 2026-09-19T15:07:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: the federal kuala lumpur, merdeka, art deco, restored 1957, low gee teong, low kian leong, malaysia tourism promotion board, bukit bintang, renovation phase one, historic mosaic staircase, gilded entrance, news
## Reopening after renovation
The Federal Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's first international-class hotel, has reopened with restored heritage features following its first phase of renovations starting in 2024.
## 1957 Merdeka-era opening
The historic landmark first opened on August 28, 1957, just days before Merdeka, and has been a symbol of Malaysia's hospitality since then.
## Restored heritage features
The renovation uncovered a historic mosaic staircase from 1957 and conserved the original gilded cast-iron entrance metalwork.
## Art Deco windows restored
The Federal Kuala Lumpur's signature circular Art Deco façade windows were restored during the renovation process.
## Guestroom updates
Guestrooms feature clean lines, warm natural materials, and contemporary finishes while maintaining the hotel's heritage character.
## New additions
New spaces include a coffered ceiling, curved structural forms, terrazzo-inspired finishes, retro-influenced furnishings, and a dedicated art gallery.
## Executive director quote
Low Yat Group executive director Datuk Low Gee Teong said the hotel is a living testament to Malaysia's history and hospitality.

> For decades, this landmark has stood as a living testament to Malaysia’s vibrant history and hospitality
## Business development manager quote
Low Yat Group business development manager Low Kian Leong noted the renovation uncovered M&E issues not indicated in original 1957 drawings.

> 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.
## Future plans
The Federal Kuala Lumpur's renovation represents only the first phase, with phase two starting next year and an international brand joining the development.
## Key takeaway

The Federal Kuala Lumpur reopened with restored Art Deco windows, historic mosaic staircase, and new art gallery after first phase of renovation starting in 2024.