At midnight on 31 August 1957 became Malysia independent nation. A flag was hoisted on the giant 100 metres (328 ft) flagpole on Merdeka Square - an 8.2 hectare area of great historical interest. Merdeka is Malay for independence, and the flag ceremony signified the independence of the country from British rule. Originally, this area was the focal point of colonial Kuala Lumpur - it was called the Parade Ground, for here the British military parades took place. Today Merdeka Square is still used as the venue for parades and other important national events.
