Stadium Merdeka

Since the 1930s, the Football Association of Selangor commonly referred to as Selangor, had been urging the government for a professional football stadium to be built. The request had been ignored as there's in fact a MAHA Stadium, the first stadium of Selangor in collaboration with MAHA (Malayan Agri-Horticultural Association), is still there located at Jalan Ampang at that time. However, the MAHA Stadium was ruined by the Japanese army in the World War II. After the war, the F.A.S and the Football Association of Malaya (FAM) stepped up their efforts to get a new stadium as the MAHA Stadium in Jalan Ampang is now unusable.{{sfn|Haji Nawang|1999|p=9}} After Tunku Abdul Rahman was elected as president of the two associations in 1951, both associations fought hard to have a first-class stadium built.{{sfn|Haji Nawang|1999|p=9}}

In 1952, an ad-hoc committee was formed by the Kuala Lumpur Municipal Commissioners to study the proposal, and a report was released three months later.{{sfn|Haji Nawang|1999|p=9}} Several proposals were also brought up to the Federal Legislative Council on this matter, including Tunku himself, but was blocked by the council.{{sfn|Haji Nawang|1999|p=10}} After the winning of the Alliance Party in the first general election in Malaya, Tunku, who was now the Chief Minister, started an advisory committee led by E.M. McDonald to study the possibility of building a stadium.{{sfn|Haji Nawang|1999|p=10}} On 4 June 1956, a total of 160 proposal plan was submitted to the government.{{sfn|Haji Nawang|1999|p=11}}

On 2 May 1956, Tunku and McDonald started looking for suitable sites for the stadium, one of the first places they visited was the Chin Woo stadium. While standing on the tower of the stadium, Tunku saw a few athletes practicing near the Coronation Park, and asked "Don't you think it would make an ideal spot for Stadium Merdeka?"{{sfn|Haji Nawang|1999|p=11}} Although McDonald was concerned about the traffic congestion that might arise in the future, Tunku insisted that it was the perfect spot for the country's first stadium.

The site was a Chinese cemetery before it became the oldest golf course in Kuala Lumpur, which had been abandoned since 1921. The site was then later called "Coronation Park" when George VI was crowned as the King of United Kingdom.{{Cite book|last=Mohd Bakri Jaffar. Azmy Morsidi|url=http://worldcat.org/oclc/762101071|title=Untukmu Malaysia : sempena 50 tahun merdeka : 25,000 kilometer : menjejaki warisan kita : himpunan gezet monumen dan bangunan bersejarah|date=2007|publisher=Ultimate Print|isbn=978-983-43540-0-8|language=ms|trans-title=For you, Malaysia: in conjunction with 50 years of independence : 25,000 kilometers : tracking our heritage : collection of historical monuments and buildings' gazette|oclc=762101071}} Before it was decided to build a stadium on that site, several quarters were planned to be built on the site by the Royal Malaysia Police. The uneven ground of the site means that excavation work had to be carried out before it could be constructed. The construction of the stadium would also mean that a small part of the school ground of Victoria Institution would be acquired. Despite McDonald's efforts to persuade Tunku to choose another site for the stadium, Tunku insisted on building the stadium there.{{sfn|Haji Nawang|1999|p=11}}

On 11 July, Tunku bought this up to the Legislative Council and gained permission from it. Four days later, the project was transferred to the Malayan Public Works Department.{{sfn|Haji Nawang|1999|p=11}}

The stadium was constructed from 25 September 1956 to 21 August 1957, and was designed by the then Director of Public Works Department, Stanley Edward Jewkes.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=556}} Several engineers such as Lee Kwok Thye, Chan Sai Soo and Peter Low were also involved in the project. {{sfn|Lai|2018|p=541}} The cornerstone of the stadium was laid by Tunku himself on 15 February 1957.{{Cite web|date=2001|title=Paparan Bergambar - Stadium Merdeka|trans-title=Image Display - Stadium Merdeka |url=https://www.pnm.gov.my/yangpertama/Sukan_Stadium_PHOTO.htm|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181018042511/http://www.pnm.gov.my/yangpertama/Sukan_Stadium_PHOTO.htm|archive-date=18 October 2018|access-date=19 September 2020|website=www.pnm.gov.my|language=ms}}

Due to budget constraints, most of the construction materials were made locally, which meant that imported materials such as structural steels had to be avoided.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=587}} To ensure that the stadium would be finished in time, the designing was done by "fast-track" method,{{Cite news|last=林德成 (Lín Dé Chéng)|date=4 July 2019|title=【情迷热带建筑】他们 让历史再活一次，解码国家建筑|trans-title=Passion in tropical architecture - They've relived history, decoding national buildings|url=https://www.sinchew.com.my/content/content_2077877.html|access-date=17 September 2020|work=Sin Chew Daily|location=Malaysia|language=zh}}{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=573}} which means that after each element of the design was finished, it was immediately constructed.

The stadium was constructed as an earthed amphitheatre, which means that a part of the stadium is below ground level. The excavated soil was then transferred to the site of Masjid Negara which was originally a valley and was subjected to flooding issues.{{Cite web|title='The Merdeka Interviews' spotlights architects, engineers and artists who shaped Malaysia post-independence|first=Gim Ean|last=Tan|url=https://www.optionstheedge.com/topic/culture/merdeka-interviews-spotlights-architects-engineers-and-artists-who-shaped-malaysia|date=27 June 2018|access-date=17 September 2020|website=www.optionstheedge.com|language=en}}{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=139}} When the earthworks and excavation were completed, designs of the terrace seating had already been done, and the construction of it began immediately. At the same time, the designing of the covered stands, the upper terraces and the stairs were carried on by the architects.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=579}}

Two contractors were involved in the construction, Lim Quee for the construction of the main covered stands, while Boon & Cheah were responsible for the terrace and the tunnel entrances.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=579}} Besides designing the stadium, Stanley Jewkes was also responsible for the traffic planning around the stadium.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=575}} Other than Stanley, architect Edgar Green was also involved in the designing of the interior facilities such as the toilets and the canteen facilities of the restaurant. {{sfn|Lai|2018|p=581}}

The stadium held two world records upon its completion: the tallest prestressed floodlight towers at 120 feet{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=587}} and the biggest cantilever shell roofs.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=585}}{{Cite web|date=15 May 2020|title=Designing for Unity In Merdeka Era Architecture|url=https://trx.my/city/designing-unity-merdeka-era-architecture|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220707050930/https://trx.my/city/designing-unity-merdeka-era-architecture|archive-date=7 July 2022|url-status=live|access-date=17 September 2020|website=trx.my|publisher=Tun Razak Exchange|language=en}} The floodlight towers, constructed from Hume culvert pipes, was also the first prestressed tower in the world which was made from precast culvert pipe units.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=587}} Another interesting feat accomplished at the time is that all four towers were erected without using a crane.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=589}} The shell roof for the grandstand, made out of concrete, was chosen as it was both economically affordable and aesthetically beautiful. Although the strength of the cantilever roofs were tested before the ceremony, Stanley was concerned that the roof might be unable to withstand the vibrations caused by the firing of the cannons during the ceremony, but it did not happen and the event went well.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=586}}

Engineer Lee Kwok Thye credited the Kongsi Woman, also known as Lai Sui Mui{{efn|name=fn1}} for their role in the construction.{{Cite news|last=Chow|first=Melissa Darlyne|date=2 September 2018|title=How teamwork between races transformed a KL field into the Merdeka Stadium|url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2018/09/02/how-teamwork-between-races-transformed-a-kl-field-into-stadium-merdeka/|work=Free Malaysia Today|language=en-GB|access-date=26 September 2021}} The women were responsible for carrying concrete buckets from the ground up to the structures being constructed, where it was then poured into the framework.

{{Blockquote

|text= They come to the site in black clothes, usually on bicycles. Their sleeves were extra long so that they could use them as gloves. They wore big straw hats with a hood. There were big gangs of them, each carrying two small buckets of concrete that was premixed at ground level. They walked up a ramp to take them right up to the top of the construction. A man would be up there to receive the concrete, pour it in, they'd return, and then continue in a chain system.

|author=Lee Kwok Thye{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=636}}

}}

{{See also|Malayan Declaration of Independence#Declaration ceremony}}

The stadium was completed on 21 August 1957, while the opening ceremony was held on 30 August 1957, a day before the country declared independence. At the time of completion, it was the largest stadium in the Southeast Asia. The opening ceremony was opened by Tunku Abdul Rahman, which was witnessed by over 15,000 spectators, including foreign athletes.{{Cite web|title=Perasmian Stadium Merdeka|url=https://www.facebook.com/KPKTMalaysia/posts/6029942623745262 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/facebook/132895990116651/6029942623745262 |archive-date=2022-02-26 |url-access=limited|date=31 August 2021|trans-title=Opening of Stadium Merdeka|access-date=26 October 2020|publisher=Ministry of Housing and Local Government Malaysia|language=ms}}{{cbignore}} It was also Tunku himself who placed the foundation stone on 15 February 1957. The ceremony includes a mass drill performance by 1000 students.{{Cite news|last=饶可韵 (Ráo Kě Yùn)|title=1957.8.31 一个多元种族国家的诞生|language=zh|date=28 August 2019|url=https://www.pressreader.com/malaysia/sin-chew-daily-metro-edition-day/20190828/page/57/textview|access-date=18 September 2020|work=Sin Chew Daily|trans-title=31.8.1957 A multicultural nation is born}}

File:Merdeka 1957 tunku abdul rahman.jpg

On 31 August 1957, power was transferred from the British Empire to the newly independent Malayan government.{{efn|name=fn2}} More than 20,000 people crowded into the stadium, which was built specifically for this occasion.{{Cite web|title=Pengisytiharan Kemerdekaan Persekutuan Tanah Melayu|trans-title=Declaration of Independence of the Federation of Malaya|url=http://hids.arkib.gov.my/print_peristiwa/4110?lang=bm|url-status=live|access-date=19 August 2021|website=hids.arkib.gov.my|publisher=National Archive Malaysia|language=ms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210819112200/http://hids.arkib.gov.my/print_peristiwa/4110?lang=bm|archive-date=19 August 2021}} The ceremony was attended by Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, representing the Queen of the United Kingdom, the Malay rulers of the nine states,{{efn|name=fn3}} the last High Commissioner of Malaya Sir Donald MacGillivray, foreign dignitaries, members of the federal cabinet and Tunku Abdul Rahman himself.{{Cite web|date=25 August 2010|title=Pengisytiharan Kemerdekaan Tanah Melayu|trans-title=Declaration of Independence of Malaya|url=http://www.arkib.gov.my/pengisytiharan_kemerdekaan_tanah_melayu|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111007210758/http://www.arkib.gov.my/pengisytiharan_kemerdekaan_tanah_melayu|archive-date=7 October 2011|access-date=18 September 2020|website=arkib.gov.my|publisher=National Archive of Malaysia|language=ms}} Following the handover of the instrument of the independence from Prince Henry to Tunku, the prime minister read out the Declaration of Independence, followed by the iconic seven shouts of "Merdeka" by Tunku.{{Cite news|last=Aziz|first=Tunku Abdul|date=31 August 2020|title=What a great moment for Malaya|url=https://www.nst.com.my/opinion/columnists/2020/08/620714/what-great-moment-malaya|access-date=18 September 2020|work=New Straits Times|language=en}} Following that, the national anthem was sung for the first time by a multiracial choir led by Tony Fonseka,{{Cite web|title=The man behind the first choir to sing Negaraku|last1=Tan|first1=Kevin|last2=Yip|first2=Yoke Teng|last3=Chua|first3=Kok Hwa|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/community/2007/08/31/the-man-behind-the-first-choir-to-sing-negaraku|date=31 August 2007|access-date=18 September 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} while the national flag was raised by Oliver Cuthbert Samuel.{{Cite web|date=1 Sep 2019|title=拼凑.记忆 - 第4集:《Negaraku 大事记》|trans-title=Memories Puzzle - Memorabilia of "Negaraku" (My Country)|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BRL-xllIAlE |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/BRL-xllIAlE |archive-date=2021-12-21|url-status=live|access-date=18 Sep 2020|website=Youtube|publisher=8TV|language=zh}}{{cbignore}} The ceremony was continued with an azan call and a thanksgiving prayer, as well as a gun salute. A mass drill were also performed by the students on the event.{{Cite news|last=Amir|first=Azdee|date=31 August 2020|title='We pulled off a splendid show' [NSTTV]|language=en|work=New Straits Times|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/08/620786/we-pulled-splendid-show-nsttv|access-date=26 September 2021}}

{{See also|Proclamation of Malaysia}}

On 16 September 1963, the stadium was the site of the proclamation of the formation of the Malaysia Federation. The event was witnessed by more than 30,000 audience{{Cite web|date=16 September 2018|title=Mengimbau detik bersejarah 16 September 1963|trans-title=Recalling the historical moments of 16 September 1963|url=https://www.hmetro.com.my/mutakhir/2018/09/377654/mengimbau-detik-bersejarah-16-september-1963|access-date=28 October 2020|website=Harian Metro|language=ms}} and it was attended by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Malay rulers, the Governor of Penang, Malacca, Singapore, Sarawak and Sabah, as well as the cabinet members, foreign diplomats and invited guests.{{Cite web|last=Ngah|first=Haryani|date=13 September 2016|title=Pembentukan Malaysia|trans-title=Formation of Malaysia|url=https://www.bharian.com.my/bhplus-old/2016/09/192249/pembentukan-malaysia|access-date=28 October 2020|website=Berita Harian|language=ms}} The Proclamation of Malaysia, which was handed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,{{cite news|date=18 September 1963|title=The Malaysia proclamation|work=The Straits Times}} was read out by the Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman. He then shouted "Merdeka" seven times, which was echoed by the crowd. This was followed by the playing of the nobat orchestra and the national anthem played by the Royal Malaysia Police Band. It was then followed by a 101-gun salute by the first round of the Federation artillery.{{cite news |date=18 September 1963 |title=The final act ends with a 101-gun salute |work=The Straits Times}} The event ended with the prayer by the Mufti of Negeri Sembilan, Ahmad Mohammad Said.{{Cite web|date=16 September 2019|title=16 September detik bersejarah yang melahirkan Malaysia|trans-title=16 September - the historical moment that led to the birth of Malaysia|url=https://www.utusanborneo.com.my/2019/09/16/16-september-detik-bersejarah-yang-melahirkan-malaysia|access-date=28 October 2020|website=www.utusanborneo.com.my|language=ms|first=Jessica|last=Jawing}}

The role of the stadium as the principal venue for celebrations and sporting events in Kuala Lumpur was replaced by the National Stadium built in the mid-1990s.

The stadium and its land were given to United Engineers Malaysia (UEM) which had intended to redevelop the land into a RM1 billion entertainment and office complex.Lim Kit Siang. [http://dapmalaysia.org/all-archive/English/2003/feb03/lks/lks2094.htm Merdeka Stadium and National Stadium - the fifth injustice and disservice in a week to the memory and legacy of Tunku on birthday centenary commemoration - Cabinet and not PNB should designate them national heritage and monuments]. DAP Malaysia. 12 February 2003. Retrieved 17 August 2007. However, the company did not proceed with the redevelopment due to public outcry and the company's financial difficulties due to the late 1990s Asian economic crisis. The stadium was now owned by Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB).

Several options were suggested following the acquirement of the site by PNB, such as redeveloping the stadium for smaller sporting activities, building a sport museum at the site, or relocate it to another site.{{sfn|Lai|2018|p=166}} Nonetheless, the stadium remained as a site for sporting events and concert until this day.

The stadium had been through several renovations. First in 1974 when the concrete upper tiers were added to increase the stadium capacity to 32,800 seats. The project costs about RM 4.5 million. In 1983, the floodlights of the stadium were replaced to make television colour transmission possible.{{cite news |date=14 August 1983 |title=$6 mil Merdeka facelift|work=Singapore Monitor |page=47}} The seating capacity of the stadium was further increased in early 1986 with the addition of upper tiers rising into the airspace on the north, east and south terraces.{{Cite web|date=30 July 2017|title=UNESCO Office in Bangkok: Stadium Merdeka|url=http://www.unescobkk.org/culture/heritage/wh/heritageawards/previous/2008/award-winners/2008ex2/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730110546/http://www.unescobkk.org/culture/heritage/wh/heritageawards/previous/2008/award-winners/2008ex2/|archive-date=30 July 2017|access-date=26 October 2020}} Prior to the 1989 SEA Games, the grandstand was changed and the game's torch platform was built, were involved a set of grand steps leading up to the torch. The renovation, which cost RM 5.3 million,{{cite news |author= |title=Malaysia geared up to put the show on the road |work=The Straits Times |date=20 August 1989 |page=11}} also includes the laying of new tracks, repairs to the roofs, enclosing sections of seating and repainting the seating terraces such that the stadium was ready for the Games.{{cite news |author= |title=Stadiums to get $4.69m facelift |work=The Straits Times |date=24 February 1989 |page=34}}

In 2007, the stadium underwent massive renovations to restore its 1957 look. With that, the 45,000-capacity stadium was reduced to 20,000, which meant that several of the upper terrace blocks built over the years were demolished.{{Cite web|title=Merdeka Stadium set for trip to historic past|date=21 May 2007|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2007/05/21/merdeka-stadium-set-for-trip-to-historic-past|access-date=19 September 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} Besides that, the entire stadium was to be decorated as the state it was when Tunku proclaimed independence, which included the word "Merdeka" written in the stadium and the original seating arrangements of the Malay Rulers, the Queen's representatives and officers. The paintworks, main pavilion, two VIP rooms and the changing rooms were to be restored to its original state as well.{{Cite web|title=耗200万回到1957年 默迪卡体育馆将恢复原貌|url=https://www.sinchew.com.my/content/content_697669.html|access-date=19 September 2020|website=www.sinchew.com.my|date=12 September 2007|language=zh|trans-title=Cost RM2 million to return to 1957, Stadium Merdeka to regain its original look}}{{Cite web|title=Bringing back the glory of a stadium|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/community/2007/06/08/bringing-back-the-glory-of-a-stadium|access-date=19 September 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my|date=8 June 2007}} The project, which costs RM2 million, was led by PNB.

{{See also|Merdeka 118}}

In December 2009, it was announced that PNB would be building a hundred-floored skyscraper on the site between Independence Stadium and Nation Stadium.{{Cite web|title=慕尤丁：由国投兴建．100层摩天楼坐落隆市中心|url=https://www.sinchew.com.my/content/content_1205270.html|access-date=20 September 2020|website=www.sinchew.com.my|date=16 October 2010|language=zh|trans-title=Muhyddin: built by PNM, 100-floored skyscraper to be built at KL city centre}}{{Cite web|title=默迪卡体馆拟建摩天楼．陈国伟斥埋没史迹|url=https://www.sinchew.com.my/content/content_771804.html|access-date=20 September 2020|website=www.sinchew.com.my|language=zh|trans-title=Plans to build skyscraper on Stadium Merdeka · Tan Kok Wai criticizes it as burying historical heritage|date=10 December 2009}} The project was officially launched by the then Prime Minister Najib Razak in September 2016.{{Cite web|title=Najib launches Warisan Merdeka project|publisher=The Star|first=Tashny|last=Sukumaran |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/03/16/najib-launches-warisan-merdeka-project/|access-date=20 September 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my|date=16 March 2016}} Formerly named as the Warisan Merdeka, the project was estimated to be finished by 2021.{{Cite web|title=Construction of PNB's Merdeka 118 tower reaches 111 floors|first=Ayisy|last=Yusof|publisher=New Straits Times|url=https://www.nst.com.my/business/2020/05/589835/construction-pnbs-merdeka-118-tower-reaches-111-floors|access-date=20 September 2020|date=4 May 2020|website=NST Online}} The tower, when completed, would be the second tallest building in the world and tallest in Southeast Asia.{{Cite news|title=Warisan Merdeka will be a national icon - PM|date=16 March 2016|agency=Bernama|work=Astro Awani|url=https://www.astroawani.com/berita-malaysia/warisan-merdeka-will-be-national-icon-pm-98809?amp=1|access-date=20 September 2020}} The tower would include 83 levels of office space, 16 levels of luxury hotel, and the rest of the floors would be occupied observation deck, restaurants, sky lobby, podium and amenities.{{Cite web|title=Merdeka 118|url=https://www.arup.com/en/projects/merdeka-118|access-date=20 September 2020|website=www.arup.com|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=Projek Merdeka 118|url=http://www.pnbmerdekaventures.com.my/|access-date=20 September 2020|website=www.pnbmerdekaventures.com.my}} Besides that, the project would also include a shopping mall and residential areas.{{Cite web|last=Community|first=B. I. M.|title=Merdeka 118 the skyscraper of Malaysia 100% BIM|publisher=BIMCommunity|url=https://www.bimcommunity.com/experiences/load/230/merdeka-118-the-skyscraper-of-malaysia-100-bim|access-date=20 September 2020|website=BIM Community}}

The tower was built on the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park (also known as Merdeka Park), which was built alongside the Independence Stadium. Such a move was criticized as the park was supposed to act as a heritage buffer zone.{{Cite web|title=吉隆坡．王建民：已列文化遗产缓冲区．反对东姑公园建118大楼|url=https://www.sinchew.com.my/content/content_942366.html|access-date=20 September 2020|website=www.sinchew.com.my|language=zh|trans-title=Kuala Lumpur · Ong Kian Ming: already listed as a heritage buffer zone, objects construction of 118-floored tower at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park|date=11 October 2013}} Plus, the park was also a recreation park for the residents in Kuala Lumpur for generations.{{Cite web|title=吉隆坡．集体发声救隆文化古迹|url=https://www.sinchew.com.my/content/content_937558.html|access-date=20 September 2020|website=www.sinchew.com.my|language=zh|trans-title=Kuala Lumpur · Voice out collectively to save KL's cultural heritage|date=25 August 2013}} The project might as well worsen the traffic congestion of that area. There was also concern that the schools nearby might be affected by the project and was forced to be relocated.{{Cite web|title=古迹变瓦砾建摩天楼|url=https://www.sinchew.com.my/content/content_938478.html|date=3 September 2013|access-date=20 September 2020|website=www.sinchew.com.my|language=zh|trans-title=Heritage turns to ruins for the construction of skyscraper}}

Prior to the completion of National Stadium, Independence Stadium was once the home ground for both the national football team (1957–1998) and Selangor FA (1957–1994), and was used temporary by the Kuala Lumpur FA in 1997.{{Cite web|date=11 December 2014|title=KL want Merdeka Stadium|publisher=New Straits Times|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/2015/09/kl-want-merdeka-stadium|access-date=23 October 2020|website=NST Online|language=en|first=Devinder|last=Singh}} Besides that, it was also the venue for the annual Independence Football Tournament and most of the finals of the Malaysia Cup. The stadium had also hosted all the football matches for the 1965 SEAP Games, 1971 SEAP Games and the 1977 SEA Games, as well as the finals for the 1989 SEA Games.

File:1958 Merdeka Cup Winner, Malaya.jpg

The first match of the stadium was the opening match of the 1957 Independence Football Tournament, on 31 August 1957, between Hong Kong League XI and Cambodia. The Hong Kong League XI became the first team to win at Independence Stadium beating Cambodia with 6–2. The first goal was scored by Law Kwok-tai.{{Cite web|date=18 July 2018|title=Halcyon days of Malaysian football|work=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/08/31/halcyon-days-of-malaysian-football/|access-date=23 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180718115143/https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/08/31/halcyon-days-of-malaysian-football/|archive-date=18 July 2018}} On the next day, the Malayan national team play its first game at the stadium on a match against Burma, which finished 5–2. The national team will win its first Merdeka Cup in 1958 on a match against South Vietnam.{{Cite web|title=Malaysia International Matches 1953-2000|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/malay-intres.html|access-date=23 October 2020|website=RSSSF}}

The first Malaya Cup final held at the stadium was played on October 19, 1957, between Selangor and Perak. Perak won the game by 3–2, becoming the first club to win a final at Independence Stadium.{{Cite web|title=Malaysia 1957|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/malay57.html|access-date=23 October 2020|website=RSSSF}} Perak also won the first Malaysia Cup at Independence Stadium after the cup was renamed in 1967.{{Cite web|title=Malaysia 1967|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/malay67.html|access-date=23 October 2020|website=RSSSF}} The stadium continued to host the next 36 Malaysia Cup finals until the 1990s.

The stadium had also witnessed the first match played by the newly formed Malaysia national football team, which is a combination of the Malaya and Singapore players (Singapore left in 1965 after the separation of Singapore with Malaysia).{{Cite book|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/1053702862|title=Football in Asia : history, culture and business|last=Cho|first=Younghan.|date=17 March 2016|isbn=978-1-317-59831-2|edition=1st|location=London|oclc=1053702862}} The match took place on 8 August 1963 (although the federation only existed after 16 September 1963) on the first round of the 1963 Merdeka Tournament against Japan. The team was defeated by 3–4.{{cite news |last=Siebel |first=Norman |title=Majid misses a penalty and Malaysia crash |work=The Straits Times |date=9 August 1963 |page=18}}

The first South East Asia Peninsular Games football tournament held in Independence Stadium was the opening match between Thailand and South Vietnam on December 15, with Thailand winning the game by 2–1. The stadium will host the rest of the matches as well as the final held on December 22, which ended with a tie between Burma and Thailand.{{Cite web|title=South East Asian Peninsula Games 1965 (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tabless/sea65.html|access-date=23 October 2020|website=RSSSF}} In 1989, the Malaysia national football team won their fourth SEA Games goal medal, the first at the stadium.{{Cite web|date=15 November 2010|title=SEA Games 1989 Kuala Lumpur|url=http://www.aseanfootball.org/competitions_021989.asp|publisher=Asean Football Federation|access-date=19 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101115143232/http://www.aseanfootball.org/competitions_021989.asp|archive-date=15 November 2010}}

The first Olympic qualification match held at the stadium was the preliminary round between Malaysia and Thailand on 12 October 1964, which resulted a draw.{{Cite news|last=Siebel|first=Norman|date=13 October 1963|title=Start from scratch for 2nd leg at Bangkok|page=14|work=The Straits Times}} In 1980, the stadium was the venue for the Olympics qualifying tournament.{{Cite web|title=Games of the XXII. Olympiad - Football Qualifying Tournament|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tableso/ol1980q.html|access-date=23 October 2020|website=RSSSF}} On 25 March, the stadium witnessed the qualification of Malaysia at the 1980 Olympic Games. The national team won the match against South Korea by 2–1, thus qualifying the Olympic Games for the second time.{{Cite web|title=Filem 'Ola Bola' kisah benar pemain bola sepak negara era 80an|url=https://www.astroawani.com/berita-hiburan/filem-ola-bola-kisah-benar-pemain-bola-sepak-negara-era-80an-85718|access-date=19 August 2021|website=www.astroawani.com|language=ms|trans-title='Ola bola' film is a true story of national football players in the 80s era|date=19 December 2015}} However, due to the boycott led by the United States, the country did not participate in the final tournament.{{Cite web|date=15 August 2021|title=Soh Chin Ann is the world's most-capped footballer. Here's what it means to Malaysia|url=https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/opinion/article/3145012/recognising-malaysias-soh-chin-ann-worlds-most-capped-footballer|access-date=19 August 2021|website=South China Morning Post|language=en}}

The first FIFA qualification match at the stadium was the match between Malaysia and South Korea on March 10, 1985.{{Cite web|title=World Cup 1986|url=http://www.allworldcup.narod.ru/1986/PROTOCOL/QUALIF/ASIA/G5/MASVSKOR.HTM|access-date=23 October 2020|website=www.allworldcup.narod.ru}}

Followed by the completion of the Shah Alam Stadium in 1994, both Selangor FA and the Malaysian national team moved to the newly built stadium.{{Cite web|date=6 June 2014|title=How Malaysia Never Reached The World Cup|url=https://poskod.my/features/malaysia-never-reached-world-cup/|access-date=23 October 2020|website=Poskod Malaysia|language=en-US}} The national team will then move to the National Stadium after its completion in 1998.

The Malaysia Cup final was held again at the stadium since 1993, which was the match between Sarawak and Brunei in 1999, which resulted in a Brunei win 2–1. The stadium had never hosted any Malaysia Cup finals ever since.

In February 2015, Kuala Lumpur FA returned to Independence Stadium for the first time in 17 years for the team's opening Premier League match of the season against Sabah.{{Cite web|last=Silva|first=Joash Ee De|title=No joy for Kuala Lumpur on their return to iconic Merdeka Stadium|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2015/02/06/kuala-lumpur-lost-to-sabah-on-return-to-stadium-merdeka|access-date=19 August 2021|website=The Star|language=en}} The last international match played at the stadium saw the Malaysian team drawing 1–1 with Cambodia in October 2001.{{cite news|date=5 February 2015|title=Stadium Merdeka to be home again for Kuala Lumpur football team|work=The Star Online|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2015/02/05/kuala-lumpur-set-to-play-in-stadium-merdeka/|access-date=30 July 2016}}

The stadium was the venue of the Brunei Merdeka Games, which was held to commemorate the Independence day of Malaya. Several events, including the Pestabola Merdeka, were held from 30 August to 8 September 1957.{{cite news |author= |title=Floodlit soccer will be main attraction at Merdeka Games |work=The Straits Times |date=26 April 1957 |page=13}} Besides football, the stadium had held cycling, athletics and hockey competition which were a part of the Games. A similar event was held in 1963 when the Malaysia Federation was formed.{{cite news |author= |title=18 games in celebration programme |work=The Straits Times |date= 27 July 1963 |page=23}}

Operated by Perbadanan Stadium Merdeka (1963–1998),{{cite web |url=https://parlimen.gov.my/ipms/eps/2019-04-03/ST.83.2019%20-%2083.2019.pdf |title=Laporan Tahunan Perbadanan Stadium Malaysia 2017|publisher=Perbadanan Stadium Malaysia|access-date=19 September 2020|language=ms|trans-title=Malaysia Stadium Corporation Annual Report 2017}} the stadium had also held four out of six of the SEA Games held in Kuala Lumpur. The stadium first host the Southeast Asia Games (known as the Southeast Asia Peninsular Games at that time) in 1965. Originally, Malaysia was planned to host the Games in 1967,{{cite news |last=Siebel |first=Norman |date=12 March 1962 |title=Let's Stage Malayan Games |work=The Straits Times |page=16}} however it was decided to be held in Malaysia after the original host, Laos had opted out due to financial difficulties.{{cite news |author= |title=Malaya willing to stage 1963 Games if asked |work=The Straits Times|date=9 November 1961 |page=17}} The stadium was the venue for the opening and closing ceremony, as well as athletics, football and cycling events.{{cite news |author= |title=Where to go to see the games |work=The Straits Times|date=14 December 1965 |page=23}} The stadium will continue to host the 1971, 1977 and 1989 editions.

The stadium had also hosted the first SUKMA Games in 1986.{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/hidsarkib/posts/sukan-malaysia-kali-pertama-dirasmipada-hari-ini-19-april-dalam-tahun-1986-sukan/2302404536685548/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/facebook/1461714954087848/2302404536685548 |archive-date=2022-02-26 |url-access=limited|title=Sukan Malaysia Kali Pertama Dirasmi|publisher=Hari Ini Dalam Sejarah - National Archives Malaysia Official Facebook Page|date=19 April 2019|access-date=2 September 2021|language=ms|trans-title=The first Sukan Malaysia opens}}{{cbignore}} It will also be hosting the second SUKMA Games two years later.

In 1975, the stadium had hosted third Men's Hockey World Cup from 1 to 15 March 1975.{{Cite web|title=World Cup|publisher= FIH|url=http://www.fih.ch/events/world-cup/|access-date=28 October 2020|website=www.fih.ch}} India won its only Hockey World Cup after beating Pakistan by 2–1.{{Cite web|title=Hockey World Cup 1975 Kuala Lumpur - Results, fixtures, tables and stats|url=https://globalsportsarchive.com/competition/field_hockey/hockey-world-cup-1975-kuala-lumpur/final/26388/|access-date=28 October 2020|website=globalsportsarchive.com}} The 1975 edition is also the Malaysian national team best performance, which won the fourth place in the event. The event was witnessed by over 50,000 spectators,{{Cite web|title=Cup of Hope|publisher=The Tribune|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/2006/20060902/saturday/main1.htm|access-date=28 October 2020|website=www.tribuneindia.com}} despite the fact that the stadium had only 45,000 seats.{{cite news |date=26 February 2002 |title=Out of the twilight zone|work=The Straits Times}}

The stadium had also held the fight between Muhammad Ali and Joe Bugner on 1 July 1975. It was held as an exhibition bout as a part of the Far East tour.{{cite news |author= |title=Ali to give exhibition bouts in KL|work=The Straits Times|date=19 November 1972 |page=1}} The match was held prior to the infamous Thrilla in Manila that was held three months later. About 20,000 spectators witnessed the fight in the stadium, including the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Prime Minister, several kings and governors, as well as Joe Frazier, Ali's former adversary.{{Cite web|title=Malaysia: Boxers Muhammad Ali and Joe Bugner Make Final Preparations for the World Title Fight |url=https://reuters.screenocean.com/record/1066484|access-date=28 October 2020|website=Reuters Archive Licensing|language=en}} Ali won the fight by 73–67, 73–65 and 72–65 after the mandatory 15 rounds were over.{{cite news |author1=Maarop|author2=Khairuddin |date=2 July 1975 |title=Sekali lagi Ali buktikan gagahnya dlm tinju dunia|work=Berita Harian|page=15|language=ms|trans-title=Once again Ali proves his strength in the boxing world}}

In athletics, the stadium was also used to held the 1991 Asian Athletics Championships, which was held in Kuala Lumpur.{{Cite web|title=Asian Championships|url=http://www.gbrathletics.com/ic/asc.htm|access-date=29 October 2020|website=www.gbrathletics.com}} The event was held from 19 to 23 October. Aside from that, the stadium was also regularly used for national championships.

The Independence Stadium had also hosted major concerts. Uriah Heep held its first Malaysian concert at the stadium on 19 October 1983. Michael Jackson's HIStory World Tour filled the stadium to capacity. Jackson performed two sold-out concerts on 27 and 29 October 1996, respectively, in front of 55,000 people each night.{{efn|name=fn4}}{{Cite web|last=Chua|first=Dennis|date=7 August 2020|title=Meeting M.J. in '96 was surreal|publisher=New Straits Times|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/08/614666/nst175-meeting-mj-96-was-surreal|access-date=18 September 2020|website=NST Online|language=en}}

Linkin Park performed at the stadium in their Meteora World Tour on 15 October 2003. The concert was attended by over 28,000 audiences.{{Cite web|title=2003.10.15 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia|url=https://lplive.net/shows/2003/20031015/|access-date=19 November 2020|website=Linkin Park Live|language=en-US}}File:Jennifer Lopez (8414252448).jpg

Mariah Carey first perform at the stadium on 20 February 2004 as a part of her Charmbracelet World Tour. She returned to the stadium ten years later in her The Elusive Chanteuse Show on 22 October 2014.{{Cite web|title=Singing in the rain with Mariah Carey|url=https://www.thesundaily.my/archive/1207377-BRARCH278095|access-date=23 November 2020|website=www.thesundaily.my|language=en}}

Celine Dion performed on 13 April 2008 for a total audience of 48,000 as a part of her Taking Chances World Tour.{{Cite web|title=Tickets for Celine Dion show go on sale today|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2008/02/14/tickets-for-celine-dion-show-go-on-sale-today|access-date=23 November 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my|date=14 February 2008}} Avril Lavigne played her first show at the stadium on 29 August 2008. She will return to the stadium again in her Black Star Tour in 2012,{{Cite web|title=Avril Lavigne wows fans at Stadium Merdeka|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2012/02/19/avril-lavigne-wows-fans-at-stadium-merdeka|date=19 February 2012|access-date=26 October 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} and again in 2014 as a part of The Avril Lavigne Tour.{{Cite web|title=Avril Lavigne rocks on|url=https://www.thesundaily.my/archive/993551-IRARCH245391|access-date=23 November 2020|website=www.thesundaily.my|language=en}}

Justin Bieber performed at the stadium as a part of his debut world tour on 21 April 2011.{{Cite web|date=22 April 2011|title=Justin Bieber Pukau Peminat Di Stadium Merdeka|publisher=mStar|url=https://www.mstar.com.my/spotlight/hiburan/2011/04/22/justin-bieber-pukau-peminat-di-stadium-merdeka|access-date=26 October 2020|website=www.mstar.com.my|language=ms|trans-title=Justin Bieber captures the hearts of his fans at Stadium Merdeka}} Other Western artists who have played the stadium includes Jennifer Lopez,{{Cite web|date=3 December 2012|title=J Lo sizzles and dazzles in KL 'Dance Again' concert|url=http://www.theedgemarkets.com/article/j-lo-sizzles-and-dazzles-kl-%E2%80%98dance-again%E2%80%99-concert|access-date=19 August 2021|website=The Edge Markets}} Cliff Richards, Scorpions,{{Cite web|title=Scorpions coming to town again|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2004/08/04/scorpions-coming-to-town-again|access-date=19 November 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my|date=4 August 2004}} Metallica,{{Cite web|title=Events|url=https://www.metallica.com/tour/past/?crefn1=locationName&crefv1=Stadium%20Merdeka|access-date=26 October 2020|website=www.metallica.com}} My Chemical Romance{{Cite web|title=MCR thrills fans in debut concert|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2007/12/10/mcr-thrills-fans-in-debut-concert|access-date=19 November 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my|date=10 December 2007}} and Bon Jovi.{{Cite web|last=Radzi|first=Oleh Riadz|date=19 September 2015|title=Bon Jovi gamit memori 1986|url=https://www.hmetro.com.my/node/78741|access-date=26 October 2020|website=HM Online|language=ms|trans-title=Bon Jovi brings back memories of 1986}}

Taiwanese singer Jolin Tsai first performed at the stadium on her Myself World Tour on 11 June 2011. She returned to the stadium again for her Play World Tour on 16 July 2016.{{Cite web|title=Jolin Tsai fell on stage during KL concert|first=ChongHui|last=Lee|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2016/07/20/jolin-tsai-fell-on-stage-during-kl-concert|date=20 July 2016|access-date=26 October 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} On the following year, Mandopop singer Wang Leehom held his Music-Man Tour on March 3. He will return to the stadium again on 16 March 2019 as a part of his Descendants of the Dragon 2060 World Tour.{{Cite web|last=Zi|first=Tan Mei|title=Mandopop king Wang Leehom to light up Merdeka Stadium on March 16|publisher=Malay Mail|url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/showbiz/2019/01/14/mandopop-king-wang-leehom-to-light-up-merdeka-stadium-on-march-16/1712383|access-date=23 November 2020|website=www.malaymail.com|date=14 January 2019 |language=en}}

Chinese singer Jay Chou first performed at the stadium in 2003 on The One World Tour.{{Cite web|title=Taiwan's prince of R&B wows them all|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2003/05/18/taiwans-prince-of-rb-wows-them-all|date=18 May 2003|access-date=23 November 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} The singer performed again at the stadium two years later on his Incomparable World Tour.{{Cite web|title=Taiwan's Chou wows Malaysians at concert|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2005/01/31/taiwans-chou-wows-malaysians-at-concert/|access-date=23 November 2020|date=31 January 2005|website=www.thestar.com.my}} His third appearance at the stadium was on February 23 as a part of The World Tour.{{Cite web|title=Jay Chou gig to kickstart new year|first=Jo|last=Teh|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2008/01/06/jay-chou-gig-to-kickstart-new-year|date=6 January 2008|access-date=23 November 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} Chou will return for his Invincible World Tour on August 6, 2016.

K-pop group EXO played the stadium on 12 March 2016 as a part of their Exo Planet #2 - The Exo'luxion World Tour.{{Cite web|title=EXO rocked the crowd at Stadium Merdeka|first=Chester|last=Chin|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2016/03/12/exo-rocked-the-crowd-at-stadium-merdeka|date=12 March 2016|access-date=23 November 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} The group will return again on 18 March 2017 on their Exo Planet #3 - The Exo'rdium World Tour.{{Cite web|last=Omar|first=Aref|date=19 March 2017|title=EXO-llent! High octane show by EXO boys in Stadium Merdeka|publisher=New Straits Times|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/2017/03/222257/exo-llent-high-octane-show-exo-boys-stadium-merdeka|access-date=23 November 2020|website=NST Online|language=en}} Indian composer A.R. Rahman performed his A.R. Rahman Live in Concert on 14 May 2016 at the stadium.{{Cite web|title=A.R. Rahman impresses fans at concert despite delay|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/05/15/ar-rahman-gives-spectacular-performance-at-live-concert/|date=15 May 2016|access-date=26 October 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} On the same year, South Korean group Big Bang held their MADE (V.I.P) Tour fan meeting at the stadium.{{Cite web|last=Ramli|first=Bibi Nurshuhada|date=10 October 2016|title=BigBang entertains over 10,000 fans in KL with music, fun and games|publisher=New Straits Times|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/2016/10/179225/bigbang-entertains-over-10000-fans-kl-music-fun-and-games|access-date=23 November 2020|website=NST Online|language=en}} G-Dragon performed in the stadium on his own solo tour Act III: M.O.T.T.E World Tour on 17 September 2017.{{Cite web|last=Ramli|first=Bibi Nurshuhada|date=18 September 2017|title=G-Dragon thrills fans at his second Malaysian concert despite the rain|publisher=New Straits Times|url=https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2017/09/280994/g-dragon-thrills-fans-his-second-malaysian-concert-despite-rain|access-date=26 October 2020|website=NST Online|language=en}}

Malaysian singer Michael Wong held his Lonely Planet Concert Tour on 10 November 2018 at the stadium.{{Cite web|title=Guang Liang to hold outdoor concert|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2018/08/20/guang-liang-to-hold-outdoor-concert/|date=20 August 2018|access-date=26 October 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} He was the first local singer to held a solo concert at the stadium.{{Cite web|title=光良明年再攻小巨蛋|url=https://www.chinapress.com.my/20190804/%e5%85%89%e8%89%af%e6%98%8e%e5%b9%b4%e5%86%8d%e6%94%bb%e5%b0%8f%e5%b7%a8%e8%9b%8b/|access-date=29 October 2020|website=China Press|date=4 August 2019|language=zh|trans-title=Guang Liang to perform again at the Taipei Arena next year}} Other Asian singers that had performed at the stadium include Kelly Chen, Beyond,{{Cite web|title=HK rock band Beyond thrills fans in concert|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2003/10/13/hk-rock-band-beyond-thrills-fans-in-concert|access-date=19 November 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my|date=13 October 2003}} Faye Wong,{{Cite web|title=Faye Wong well worth getting wet for|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2004/04/25/faye-wong-well-worth-getting-wet-for|date=25 April 2004|access-date=19 November 2020|website=www.thestar.com.my}} Wonder Girls, Jacky Cheung and Mayday.{{Cite web|title=Mayday 2017 LIFE Tour in Malaysia|url=https://www.starplanet.com.my/mayday|access-date=26 October 2020|website=www.starplanet.com.my|language=en}}

Other shows held in the stadium include:

• Philiac Concert for Peace, May 2011{{Cite web|title=Merdeka Stadium|url=http://www.visitkl.gov.my/visitklv2/index.php?r=column/cthree&id=75&place_id=921|access-date=31 August 2021|website=www.visitkl.gov.my|publisher=Kuala Lumpur Tourism Bureau}}
• B.o.B, Far East Movement, Mizz Nina, Watsons Music Festival, 15 December 2012{{Cite web|date=16 December 2012|title=Ribuan banjiri 'Watsons Music Festival' (Video)|url=https://www.astroawani.com/berita-hiburan/ribuan-banjiri-watsons-music-festival-video-2140|access-date=26 October 2020|website=www.astroawani.com}}

File:KL112 (8413392743).jpg

On 9 July 2011, protesters of the Bersih 2.0 rally marched to the Independence Stadium.{{Cite web|date=11 July 2011|title=Crowd dispersing from Stadium Merdeka|publisher=The Malaysian Insider|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/headless-bersih-rally-still-growing-at-stadium/|access-date=18 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711012430/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/headless-bersih-rally-still-growing-at-stadium/|archive-date=11 July 2011}} The decision was made after the organisers had consulted the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.{{Cite web|date=8 July 2011|title=Bersih's Ambiga: No street march, rally will be held in stadium|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/7/5/nation/20110705160353&sec=nation|access-date=18 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708051317/http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/7/5/nation/20110705160353&sec=nation|archive-date=8 July 2011}} On 12 January 2013, The People's Uprising rally ({{Langx|ms|Himpunan Kebangkitan Rakyat}}) was held in the stadium.{{Cite web|date=12 January 2013|title=Spread rally info widely, Anwar tells M'sians abroad|url=https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/218759|access-date=18 November 2020|website=Malaysiakini|language=en}}

The stadium had witnessed the largest silat lesson in the world on 29 August 2015. The lesson was participated by 12,393 participants and was directed by Grandmaster YM Syeikh Dr. Md Radzi bin Hanafi, who is the Pewaris Mutlak Silat Cekak from Persekutuan Seni Silat Cekak Pusaka Ustaz Hanafi Malaysia.{{Cite web|title=Largest silat lesson|url=https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/388281-largest-silat-lesson|access-date=18 November 2020|website=Guinness World Records|language=en-GB}} It was held in conjunction with the National Day celebration on that year.{{Cite web|date=11 September 2015|title=Thousands celebrate National Malaysia Day in Kuala Lumpar with largest Silat lesson|url=https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/commercial/2015/9/thousands-celebrate-national-malaysia-day-in-kuala-lumpar-with-largest-silat-less-395889|access-date=18 November 2020|website=Guinness World Records|language=en-GB}}

In February 2003, Independence Stadium was named a national heritage building. In 2007, Independence Stadium underwent restoration to its original 1957 condition as part of Malaysia's 50th-anniversary plans to relive the moment when Tunku Abdul Rahman proclaimed independence there. The restoration was completed by December 2009. The restoration received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific 2008 Award of Excellence for Cultural Heritage Conservation.

The stadium is served by the {{KLRT color code|MR|3}} Maharajalela Monorail station, situated next to one of the stadium's west exits. The station is situated between Tun Sambathan station and the Hang Tuah station.

File:SBK Line Merdeka Station Entrance B 2.jpg

The stadium is also indirectly served by the {{KLRT color code|KG|17}} Merdeka MRT station. The station is situated in between Pasar Seni MRT station and Bukit Bintang MRT station on the Sungai Buloh-Kajang Line. Although its name refers to the stadium, the station serves the adjacent Stadium Negara instead.

The stadium can also be reached via the Ampang and Sri Petaling LRT Line by stopping at {{KLRT color code|SP|8}} {{KLRT color code|AG|8}} Plaza Rakyat LRT station. A 180-metre pedestrian linkway was built from the station to the Merdeka MRT station,{{Cite web|title=Monorail and LRTs|publisher=Rapid KL|url=https://www.myrapid.com.my/traveling-with-us/how-to-travel-with-us/rapid-kl/monorail-and-lrts|access-date=18 November 2020|website=www.myrapid.com.my}} which is just a few blocks away from the stadium. The walkway was air-conditioned, brightly lit, and travelators were installed to ensure the comfort of the passengers.{{Cite web|title=MRT Corp|url=https://www.facebook.com/MRTMalaysia/posts/1570033736361355 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/facebook/449339121764161/1570033736361355 |archive-date=2022-02-26 |url-access=limited|access-date=18 November 2020|website=www.facebook.com|language=en}}{{cbignore}}

The stadium can also be reached by bus. Located near the stadium, Pasar Seni bus hub is the terminating stop for a dozen of bus lines in the Klang Valley.{{Cite web|title=Bus|url=https://www.myrapid.com.my/traveling-with-us/how-to-travel-with-us/rapid-kl/bus|publisher=Rapid KL|access-date=19 September 2020|website=www.myrapid.com.my}}

File:Merdeka Boulevard At 118 in 2025 07.jpg|Main entrance as seen from Merdeka Boulevard at 118.

File:Stadium Merdeka in 2025 01.jpg|Panoramic view.

File:Stadium Merdeka in 2025 02.jpg|Interior.

File:StadiumMerdeka GrandstandFromNorth Sep2024 2.jpg|Grandstand.

File:Stadium Merdeka Kuala Lumpur Feb 2007.jpg|Originally only the lower stands were built but in later years the upper stands were added.

File:Stadium Merdeka Kuala Lumpur 2007.jpg|A splendid view of Kuala Lumpur with Independence Stadium to the right in 2007.

File:Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Stadium-Merdeka-03.jpg|View of the east stand of the stadium.

File:Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Stadium-Merdeka-01.jpg|View of the stadium from its entrance.

File:Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Stadium-Merdeka-05.jpg|View of the covered stand of the stadium.

• Merdeka 118
• Stadium Negara
• Stanley Edward Jewkes
• National Stadium
• List of stadiums in Malaysia
• Malayan Declaration of Independence

{{notelist|refs=

{{efn|name=fn1|Which means "mud girls" in Cantonese.}}

{{efn|name=fn2|At the time of its independence, Malaya excluded Singapore, Sarawak and Sabah.}}

{{efn|name=fn3|Which are Perlis, Kedah, Perak, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Johor, Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu.}}

{{efn|name=fn4|It was the only time Michael Jackson performed in Malaysia.}}

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{{Reflist}}

• {{Cite book |last=Lai |first=Chee Kien |url=http://worldcat.org/oclc/1042278335|title=The Merdeka interviews: architects, engineers and artists of Malaysia's Independence|year=2018|publisher=Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia |isbn=978-967-5264-20-7|oclc=1042278335}}
• {{Cite book|last=Mohd Bakri Jaffar. Azmy Morsidi|url=http://worldcat.org/oclc/762101071|title=Untukmu Malaysia : sempena 50 tahun merdeka : 25,000 kilometer : menjejaki warisan kita : himpunan gezet monumen dan bangunan bersejarah|date=2007|publisher=Ultimate Print|isbn=978-983-43540-0-8|oclc=762101071 |ref=none}}
• {{Cite book |last=Haji Nawang |first=Adnan |url=http://worldcat.org/oclc/769049252|title=Stadium Merdeka & Stadium Negara meniti sejarah kegemilangan|date=1999|publisher=Utusan Publications & Distributors |isbn=967-61-0902-9|oclc=769049252}}

{{commons category|Stadium Merdeka}}

• [https://www.merdeka118.com/the-stadiums/stadium-merdeka/ Merdeka 118 Precinct : Stadium Merdeka webpage]

{{Merdeka 118 Precinct|state=collapsed}}

{{Authority control}}

Category:Football venues in Malaysia

Category:Athletics (track and field) venues in Malaysia

Category:Multi-purpose stadiums in Malaysia

Category:Sports venues in Kuala Lumpur

Category:Sports venues completed in 1957

Category:1957 establishments in British Malaya

Category:Southeast Asian Games stadiums

Category:Selangor F.C.