LEGIBILITY OF HISTORICAL URBAN SQUARE IN SHAPING IMAGE OF THE

CITY: A CASE STUDY OF MERDEKA SQUARE, KUALA LUMPUR

Tan Jun Jie
Master of Architecture, School of Architecture, Building & Design, Taylors University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
Abstract
Since Dutch and British colonial settlements in Malaysia during 18
th
until 20
th
century, few historical cities such as
Georgetown, Melaka, Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur were developed. Many of the unique and historic buildings, open spaces and
other township components have contributed in shaping the character of these cities. Padang is one of the elements found in
the heart of many historical urban square in Malaysia, introduced during British colonial. It is a huge green open space for
many social activities and also a ground of exercising nations right of assembly for democracy. However, many of these
padang are in the threat as the victims of the rapid urbanization in this day and age. This paper is a review on the significance
and role of a padang in the image of the city of Malaysia. Case study was selected as the main research methodology where a
historical urban square in Kuala Lumpur- Merdeka Square was selected due to its distinctive character and significance as a
padang in the city. With historical approach in the research, the role and the fate of the padang were identified on the basis of
its morphological, sociological characteristics and architectural meanings to the nation and general public. The paper revealed
Merdeka Square have been disrupted by the invasion of rapid development which resulted to the disappearance of its original
unique identity as a civic square due to the changes in its use. This paper also suggests that the padang and its surrounding
built environment convey various architectural meanings which lead to the image formation of a city.

Keywords: Legibility; Historical urban square; Padang; Image of the city; Merdeka Square
1.0 Introduction
A city without old places is like a man without memory (Vani, 2005). Many cities have quarters that play
an irreplaceable role in shaping an image for the city. For most of the time, public squares are contributing to part
of the citys charm and appeal, as their aesthetical and functional qualities are essential in shaping the citys image
and identity. Public square in a city acts as a breathing space for the urban dwellers to have their recreational
activities and social interactions. A public place also providing a place for exercising the right of assembly and
free speech, heartbroken communion and civic discussion which are important to participatory democracy and the
good life (Child, 2004).

In Malaysias development and urban form, the elements that commonly be seen are urban squares, parks
and public open spaces, which most of them are locally known as padang. Padang is a Malay word which means
a large field turfed with grass with an area bigger than a football pitch (Zalina and

Ismail, 2008). In British India,
padang was begun as esplanade and extended to South East Asia later on (Hoyt, 1993). Hoyt (1993) described
the padang as an expanse of green known as a large closely trimmed lawn alien to pre-colonial, equatorial Malaya.
During British Colonial. Padang was one of the most notable features found in front of British administrative
buildings that being used for parades on formal occasions.


In the decades of rapid development where city urbanisation and technological advancement are taking place,
many historic cities are being threatened. The new development will insist an irreversible transformation to the
physical and also visual image which causes loss of identity. Consequently, all features such as open spaces,
streets and traditional activities; attributes that give a city its unique character and provide the sense of belonging
to its community are continuously disappeared. Many of these spaces have gradually disappeared, including the
padang in many cities in Malaysia.

This research will look into the contribution of a padang in shaping the citys image. This research will
explores the physical qualities of a padang which relate to the attributes of history, identity, place attachment and
meaning of it to the mental map of the public. This leads to the definition of legibility, that physical and visual
quality of the objects which give it a high probability to evoke a strong image in urban observers (Lynch, 1960).
An image interpretation and use in the design will be then be focused in the research through literature reviews
and case study. Image interpretation is being reviewed in terms of history, local context, spatial identity, and how
surrounding activities affect the identity of the padang. In this research, historical padang namely Merdeka Square
in Kuala Lumpur was chosen as case study sites due to its uniqueness and importance.
1.1 Merdeka Square

Merdeka Square has been witnessing the growth and development of Kuala Lumpur specifically within
its vicinity. However Merdeka Square had undergone to a certain extent of transformation and make over. It is
one of the earliest padang created by the British in Malaya and known as the Padang Club Selangor formerly
(Federal Department of Town and Country Planning, 2005). It is located at the central of an old government
administration district, and parallel with the Gombak River and sited opposite to hillock area of Bukit Aman (Bluff
Hill), the location for National Police Department headquarters. The padang was originally a military ground for
the police and army throughout the British colony (Federal Department of Town and Country Planning, 2005).
Eventually it became the centre for sports and recreation for the British and the elites group, often complemented
by a clubhouse. Cricket and football were played on regular basis and the padang evolved as the social and
recreational centre while serving its civic duty as the administration hub.

The creation of this padang is not made simply of leftover space between buildings and parking lots. It
is rather strong organizing places about which buildings and other parts of the city of Kuala Lumpur take form,
involving the process which is similar to many squares in all around the world. It is such a simple yet a unique
public place and well preserved since its creation by the British way back in the 1884. There were a lot of
ceremonies and parade held on this padang. Simultaneously, under the influence of enthusiastic European
sportsmen, it became a playing field for cricket and other team games and was made into level sward. As its
function as a civic square grew, many government offices were built around or near it including Sanitary Board
(1890), the Post Office (1894), the High Court (1904), the Survey Department (1909), and the Public Works
Department (1920) (Federal Department of Town and Country Planning, 2005).

It soon became the first Merdeka Parade in 1957 upon Malaysias Independence (Amree, 2007). It
underwent change from an urban square to a modern urban square with injection of sophisticated infrastructures
and facilities (big screen television, majestic flag pole, with parking space and commercial allotment underneath)
by today's professionals of globalization era. The padang is almost a restricted area. It opens only during special
occasions and on Merdeka Celebrations.

1.2 Problem Statement

In Malaysia, the historical Jalan Sultan which located at the heart of Kuala Lumpur is facing the threat
where the new MRT development is taking place while there were demonstrations and oppositions occurred in
recent years (the Star, 2012). This is happening near the most prominent urban squares located they in addition,
happen to be in the historic areas which were designated by the local authority as conservation zones. The
historical part of the Kuala Lumpur is facing the threat when the pressure for development has taken its toll on
the limited open spaces in the city centre in recent years.

Following the trend of the concept of a European plaza or roof top garden, there are many projects to
upgrade open space especially the padang where pavement, pavilion and concrete stage is included at the central
end of the padang. Similar case goes to Merdeka Square where no one among the early pioneers of this part of
the city of Kuala Lumpur would have imagined that their much admired padang would one day be completely
dug up and an enormous underground car park and commercial outlets built under it. Indeed, the completion of a
massive concrete platform during the 1990s backed by a gigantic digital monitor, bulky concrete performance
stage and flanked by what is reputed to be the worlds tallest flag-pole has totally changed the character of this
historical site (Chandran, 2004).

With all the changes and transformations, the issue now is, whether image and identity of Kuala Lumpur's
Merdeka Square can withstand the process of change and whether the process of transformation, one way or
another affects the image of the city.


1.3 Research Question

The research question is as bellow;

1. How does the design of an urban square affects the citys image and identity?

1.4 Aim and Objectives

The main aim is to examine the legibility of historical padang as an open space in a city and its
contributions in shaping the image of the city.


1.4.1 Research Objectives

1. To explore the character of a padang in terms of its history, morphology, function and image.
2. To identify the role and architectural meanings of a padang in the formation of a citys image.
3. To examine the level of legibility of a padang from the perception of general public.

2.0 Literature Review

2.1. Legibility of Urban Squares as Public Open Space

Public urban square is an open space which commonly found in the heart of a town used for social and
economic exchange, community gatherings (Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, 2009).
Many researchers have tried to identify the criteria of the ideal and successful urban squares as a public open
space.

Access and Linkages
To be successful, a public square needs to be easy to get to and get through (Project for Public Space, 2009). In
the physical dimension, a high quality public open space should have a clear and easy access and movement
system (Gehl 2002). It could be attained by creating linkage as clear paths which connect each other and by
integration of transportation mode and land use, the present of landmark as orientation. Successful squares are
always easily accessible by foot. The best pedestrian walkway are linking with narrow surrounding streets, well-
marked crosswalks, timed lights for pedestrian, slow-moving traffic and transit stops nearby (Project for Public
Space, 2009).

Comfort and Safety
In psychological dimension, the criteria of a successful public open space is promoting comfort and safety
(Danisworo, 1989). Comfort includes perceptions about safety, cleanliness, and the availability of places to sit
the importance of giving people the choice to sit where they want is generally underestimated (Project for Public
Space, 2009). While in the Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, few strategies
are set to encourage users of a building, park, or street to feel safe about their surroundings while dissuade
offenders from committing crimes. According to Moffat (1983), the six main concepts are territoriality,
surveillance, access control, image/maintenance, activity support and target hardening.

Greeneries and Amenities
To improve comfort relaxation, natural elements are important factor in public open space. It could be achieved
by placing tress along pedestrian path and sitting area (Gehl, 2002) that enhance pleasant experience and anticipate
unpleasant climate. Other than greeneries, a square should feature amenities such as bench or waste receptacle
that make it comfortable for people to use (Project for Public Space, 2009). While in highlighting specific
activities, entrances or pathways, good lighting should be integrated into the design. Temporary installations such
as public art can act as a great magnet for children of all ages to come together. Whether temporary or permanent,
a good amenity will set up a genial ground for social interaction (Project for Public Space, 2009).

Activities and Sociability
In urban environments, public spaces such as squares can serve as successful social spaces and can function as a
focus for different activities (Ferdous, 2013). Public open space is successful when it becomes a conducive place
for social interaction with a wide range of activities occur. According to Murat (2013), public squares has the
main contribution to the social interaction. Urban squares act like social catalysts to gather citizens together for
various reasons and activities. The way and context of this social interaction displays the local identity.

2.3. Legibility of Urban Square as a Civic Open Space
Civic open space is the representation of a nation civic pride and dignity, and in the case of Malaysia,
often reflects the local community they represent (Federal Department of Town and Country Planning, 2005).
Civic squares and plazas often containing statues or fountains and primarily paved, sometimes providing a setting
for important public buildings (Khalid, 2008).

Image and Identity
Historically, squares were the centre of communities, and they traditionally helped shape the identity of entire
cities (Project for Public Space, 2009). Image of a square often relate to its form at the first sight. A public squares
form is influenced by the surrounding environment. Even though the word square points out a form itself, a
public square can be in any form such as rectangle, square, circle, triangle or amorphous (Murat, 2013). A distinct
form of a civic square that closely ties to the great civic buildings located nearby, such as cathedrals, city halls, or
libraries is often shaping the image of many squares. Sometimes a fountain was used to give the square a strong
image (Project for Public Space, 2009). Think of the majestic Trevi Fountain in Rome or the Swann Fountain in
Philadelphias Logan Circle. Today, creating a square that becomes the most significant place in a citythat gives
identity to whole communitiesis a huge challenge, but meeting this challenge is absolutely necessary if great
civic squares are to return.

Sense of Enclosure
Camillo Sitte, in his work City Planning According to Artistic Principles (1889) emphasizes that the main
requirement of a square is the sense of enclosure. Enclosure is one of the perceptual organization principles of
the Gestalt psychology. Grouping is the fundamental concept of the Gestalt approach. People tend to group objects
that look similar and close to each other. Furthermore enclosure or closure helps us to perceive objects as a whole
(Murat, 2013). The easiest and straightforward way of creating enclosure is grouping buildings around a central
space. Other than group, another aspect that need to be considered is the height of the surrounding enclosure.
Urban design guidelines by the Scottish Government (2009) suggest that for a square, the minimum ratio of height
of the building to the width of the square is 1:6 to create a good sense of enclosure.

Visual Attractions
Visual attractions of a public open space could be reach by attractive building facade architecture and interesting
scene and details (Gehl, 2002). Sitte (1889) focuses on the visual appearance rather than the functionality. The
ideal morphological aesthetic criteria of the urban square including monuments that are placed on the perimeter,
existence of the elements of surprise, attractiveness of architectural faades, and concavity and aesthetic
pavement. Different research literatures also mention the importance of these physical features and corroborate
the following outcomes together with the inclusion of water features and fountains and presence of monuments
or sculptures (Lynch, 2007).

History
History of a public squares is importance for the citys identity and they usually reflect the collective values of
the community (Murat, 2013). According to Levy (2012), the main difference between a public park and a public
square is that on a square, citizens are not connected to manifestations of nature, but to the heart of urban culture,
history and memory. In the last few decades, many urban squares have lost their function and memory due to the
new development. Thus, it is important to reconsider and review urban public square design approaches in order
to sustain and improve our existing squares or create enjoyable new ones.

2.4 Legibility of Urban Square in Shaping Citys Image
Lynch (1960) had identified the five physical elements that will help shaping the identity and structure
of a city, which are (1) paths, (2) edges, (3) districts, (4) nodes, and (5) landmarks. Lynchs elements all together
provide a complete image of the city: districts are structured with nodes, defined by edges, penetrated by paths,
and sprinkled with landmarks . . . elements regularly overlap and pierced one another (Lynch, 1960). A highly
legible or imageable city will contain structures or areas which is remarkable, distinct that would invite greater
attention and participation from the public.

Historically, it is proven that the padang can become strong features or elements in shaping the image of the
cities. Plaza de Mayor in Madrid, Tiananmen Square in Beijing, Time Square in New York, Trafalgar Square in
London, Old Town Square in Prague, Piazza San Marco in Venice, Saint Peters Square in Vatican City and Red
Square in Moscow are some examples of magnificent urban squares of the world. These urban squares seem to
have represented the cities that they are belong to, at the same time helping these cities to become sparkling places.
3.0 Methodology
Due to the complexity of the data collection and comprehensive investigation that needed to be done as
developed from the literature reviews, case study was chosen as the research methodology. Case study
methodology is ideal when a holistic and in-depth analysis is needed (Feagin, Orum and Sjoberg, 1991). Yin
(1994) defines the case study research method as an empirical inquiry that investigates a contemporary
phenomenon within its real-life context; when a contextual conditions needed to be studied deliberately. As
Merdeka Square is a historic open space that has gone through over hundred years of transformation, a historical
approach in the research is applied to study its morphology and comparison between history and contemporary
from various perspectives.

In this case study done in Merdeka Square, details from multiple sources of data are required to confirm the
validity of the processes (Yin, 1994). Case study is known as a triangulated research strategy (Tellis, 1997). Snow
and Anderson (1991) (cited in Tellis, 1997) asserted that triangulation can occur with data, investigators, theories,
and even methodologies. The integration in this paper is to combine the qualitative data in the form of texts or
images with the quantitative data in the form of numeric information. The qualitative research is to collect
explanatory data and then testing and verification by quantitative data collected.

The main part of the research is the qualitative research with case study done in Merdeka Square. Research
started by conducting pilot survey in Merdeka Square to identify the general design and activity pattern occurs in
the square. Site visit was done twice in the same day, being 12.30pm and 8.30pm on 17
th
November 2013.
Behavioural mapping and visual survey through photograph and diagrams are then carried out to identify how
variety and pattern of activities take place. The research will focus on image interpretation and use in the design
of urban squares. Image interpretation is looked at in terms history, morphology, function, image, and how
surrounding use of the surrounding affect the identity of Merdeka Square. An image interpretation is a process in
experiencing the environmental visual quality in the square.

In evaluating Merdeka Square, a framework that consists of 8 criteria including qualitative and quantitative
aspects as identified in the literature review is used. The 8 criteria are (1) access and linkages (2) comfort and
safety (3) greeneries and amenities (4) activities and sociability (5) image and identity (6) sense of enclosure (7)
visual attractions (8) history. The criteria are categorized into two sections. The first four criteria are relating to
first section: legibility of Merdeka Square as a public open space; the fifth criteria to eighth criteria is belonged to
second section: legibility of Merdeka Square as a civic open space. At the third section of the research: legibility
of Merdeka Square in shaping image of Kuala Lumpur, the frameworks used is referring to the five physical
elements as suggested by Lynch (1960) in his book The Image of the City: paths, edges, districts, nodes, and
landmarks, to examine its role as these five elements in the citys image.

Quantitative research is done through a survey to evaluate Merdeka Square from the perception of general
public. Photo survey is then designed and distributed online randomly. 30 respondents are collected after one
week of distribution of the photo survey online. Questions consist of three sections as follows: (1) perception
about the legibility of Merdeka Square as a public open space; (2) perception about the legibility of Merdeka
Square as a civic open space (3) perception about the legibility of Merdeka Square in shaping image of Kuala
Lumpur. The questions are set in statements about the square and the answers are measured in a five-point Likert
scale ranging from 1 for strongly disagree to 5 for strongly agree, while 3 is considered to be the midpoint.
One open ended question was put at the last part of the questionnaire for respondents to give an overall perception
on design of Merdeka Square in terms of its role in shaping image of the city.


4.0 Results and Discussion

4.1 Access and Linkages


Map 1: Map of Merdeka Square showing location of bus stations and LRT station nearby. (Source: Google Map, 2013)

Merdeka Square is located right at the heart of the colonial district of Old Kuala Lumpur. The padang
therefore is surrounded by busy traffic network since the old days before Malaysias independence. Referring to
Map 1, it is now bounded by the Jalan Raja at the east and Jalan Kinabalu at the west. Jalan Raja which encircled
the padang and Lebuh Pasar at the east part are narrower for they were constructed the earliest than any other
areas in Kuala Lumpur. The padang also close to one of the main citys commercial district at Jalan Tuanku Abdul
Rahman and Jalan Masjid India. Along the street are three Kuala Lumpur remarkable landmarks, namely
Kompleks Dayabumi, the Railway Station and Offices and Sulaiman Building.

In term of public transportation, the padang is located near the Masjid Jamek LRT station which is within
350m walking distance. The two nearest bus station are the Dataran Merdeka, Jalan Raja Station and Bank Agro,
Lebuh Pasar Besar Station, which are within 100m and 160m walking distance respectively. Result from the
survey shows that majority people agree that the square has an easy accessibility by any mode transportation
including car, bus, LRT and walking (refer to Figure 1). This is because Merdeka Square is reachable by any
modes of transportation and the public transport stations are within walking distance.


Figure 1: Data collected from the photo survey. (Source: Author, 2013)
4.2 Comfort and Safety


Figure 2: Photograph showing backdrop of buildings and pedestrian pavement surrounding Merdeka Square. (Source: Author, 2013)

In term of safety environment, Merdeka Square has a good setting that it is surrounded by significant
colonial buildings which created a sense of ownership to the square. Around the padang is the well paved
pedestrian walkway and temporary steel railings which clearly demarcate the pedestrian from the green turfed
field (refer to Figure 2). Gathering spaces with water features and shrubs are located at the two ends: North and
South of the padang. With the clear designated pathways and common spaces, public access is being controlled
intangibly. Natural surveillance to the open square is achieved by the traffics and buildings around it.

As for the comfort aspect, the space is always clean where rubbish is hardly be seen during the site visits.
However, it is being found out that the square is lacking of shadings to promote walkability due to the lack of tall
shading trees. During night time, there is hardly any activities occur at the padang when no events are happening,
except the visitors who take a stroll there. The streets around the square are always in quiet (refer to Figure 3).


Figure 3: Photographs showing condition of Jalan Raja at 9.30pm. (Source: Author, 2013)

Although the padang and the buildings around it are lit up at night, sense of safety environment to the
visitors is still not promising. This phenomenon is reflected in the survey conducted. Result shows that there is no
major lead from the percentage of people feel safe and comfort over the percentage of people who disagree (Refer
to Figure 4). This shows that general public is still not convinced by the safety and comfort in Merdeke Square.


Figure 4: Data collected from the photo survey. (Source: Author, 2013)



4.3 Greeneries and Amenities


Figure 5: (a) left picture: Photograph showing plantations at the perimeter of the padang, (b) right picture: Photograph showing
plantations and water features at the northern part of the padang. (Source: Author, 2013)

The padang itself is a large field turfed with green. However, the taller greeneries which can provide
shadings are lacking. Tall palm trees are planted surround the boundary of the field with 10 meters apart from
each other (refer to Figure 5a); while the shrubs are only existing surround the water features at the northern part
(refer to Figure 5b). There is no seating or bench designated for the public and people are found sitting on the
steps or curbs around the water fountain.

At night, special lightings are only fitted and lighted up at some of the area (refer to Figure 6a): the flag
pole area, Sultan Abdul Samad Buildings and Tuscan column structure area (refer to Figure 6b). Other than that,
the padang is lighted up with ordinary street lights at the perimeter and a high power spot light irradiate over the
padang from the flag pole (refer to Figure 6c). Consequently, the quality of public realm is poor in terms of public
amenities and shadings.


Figure 6: (a) top picture: Photograph showing panaroma view the padang at 9pm. (Source: Author, 2013)

Figure 6: (b) bottom left picture: Photograph showing lightings at the Tuscan column structure, (c) bottom right picture: Photograph
showing spot light from the flagpole. (Source: Author, 2013)


4.4 Activities and Sociability

Figure 7: Photograph showing Merdeka Parade held at Merdeka Square on 31
st
August 2013. (Source: the Star, 2013)
Today, the padang is still the place for special events such as open air concerts, carnivals, starting or
finishing point for marathons. Parades and ceremonies such as independence celebration (Merdeka parade) is still
continuously taking place on the padang (refer to Figure 7). The flexible use of the padang for important civic
functions had led to the utilization of adjacent roads as part of the open spaces as a parade ground (Federal
Department of Town and Country Planning, 2005). In short, the padang was a centre for social life and a place to
promenade and place where the people communicate and unite.

However, it has become less significant when the major annual Merdeka parade shifted to grand avenue
of Putrajaya since 2003 (King, 2008) and the scale of the parade held at Merdeka Square these years were much
smaller than it used to be. The Sultan Abdul Samad Building was also left vacant when the court moved to
Putrajaya, the new administration centre of Malaysia (Wijnen, 2013). Except the tourists and a few number of
visitors, people were hardly be seen during the site visit, especially at night.
4.5 Image and Identity


Figure 8: Photograph showing bird eye view on Merdeka Square. (Source: Rhazlin, 2013)

The flat wide green turf which can be seen from a distance has become a backdrop and a floor for these
historical buildings. The square is always kept clean and the green turf is always well maintained. Its rectangular
form with surrounding buildings at the perimeter which features coherent architectural style, size and buildings
materials have created a distinctive image to the square. Water features are being found at the northern and
southern part of the padang. These features has led a good first impression to the visitors as shown in the result
from the survey done (refer to figure 9).


Figure 9: Data collected from the photo survey. (Source: Author, 2013)

These unique features that have historical value have shaped a strong character to the square which makes
it stands out from the other public squares, as agree by majority of the people from the survey done (refer to figure
10). For that reasons, Merdeka Square is successful in delivering the image and identity to the perception of
general public.


Figure 10: Data collected from the photo survey. (Source: Author, 2013)


4.6 Sense of Enclosure


Figure 11: Photograph showing surrounding buildings of Merdeka Square over the horizon. (Source: Author, 2013)

Referring to Figure 11, the horizontal expansiveness of vertical space: the Selangor Club (far left), St
Marys Church (at the far northern end) and the Secretariat (Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad on the right) defining
the padang (King, 2008). Merdeka Square has walls- the colonial buildings and floor- the padang to provide the
sense of an enclosure and welcoming. It can be visually, socially, psychologically and physically accessible.


Figure 12: Data collected from the photo survey. (Source: Author, 2013)

However, the results from the survey done show that people are disagree that the square has a good sense
of enclosure (refer to Figure 12). By looking at the proportion of the height of the buildings to the width of the
square, the height of the surrounding enclosure is not convincing to create a good sense of enclosure. The padang
width is approximately 75 meters while the buildings are only two to three stories high (10-15 meters). The ratio
of the building height to the width of the square is now approximately 1: 6. This is below the minimum ratio as
suggested by urban design guidelines by the Scottish Government (2009), which is 1:7.



4.7 Visual Attractions


Figure 13: (a) top left picture: Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad, (b) top right: 95-metre flagpole,
(c) bottom left picture: Tuscan column structure, (d) bottom right picture: Victoria Fountain (Source: Author, 2013)

The padang was the centre of social life for the European community and therefore it was surrounded by
many distinctive buildings which symbolizes the landmark of Kuala Lumpur, which most of them are still being
preserved till today. The building features include a coherent architectural style, size and buildings materials.
Moreover, it has been more than a decade it serves as a dominant ground in depicting one of the most prestigious
handsome building as well as important symbol of Kuala Lumpur, the Neo-saracenic style, Bangunan Sultan
Abdul Samad (refer to Figure 13a). It is a style that combined some features of Indian Muslim architecture with
Gothic and other European elements (King, 2008). At the southern end of the square is the 95-metre flagpole
(refer to Figure 13b). It is one of the tallest flagpole in the world, standing on top of a flat, round black marble
plaque. Tuscan column structure at the northern end of the padang is also making a good attraction to the public,
together with the fountain in front (refer to Figure 13c). It is one of the few structure that being lit up at night that
will look appealing to the visitors. The other attraction is the Victorian fountain which is located next to the
flagpole (refer to Figure 13d). These features has become strong visual attractions of the square, as agree by
majority of the people from the survey done (refer to Figure 14).


Figure 14: Data collected from the photo survey. (Source: Author, 2013)

4.8 History

1887 1930 2007
Figure 15: The growth of Merdeka Square from 1887 to 2007. (Source: Zalina and Ismail, 2008)

Throughout almost 130 since its creation in 1884, Merdeka Square has witnessed many changes and
events. As can be seen in Figure 15, part of the padang at the both sides was occupied for several buildings and a
road. Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad was built and occasionally it continued to be the centre of administrative
district. The most dramatic changes happened in the mid 1980s when it was completely dug up to accommodate
underground car park and commercial centres comprised of restaurants and business outlets known as Putra Plaza.
It was then roofed over and turned with many other landscape features on its top such as stage show, and gazebo,
and pedestrian walkways built around it. The underground plaza had, however, stopped operating after a big flood
hit Kuala Lumpur in 2003 (Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia, 2007). Now the padang is used as a marking point to
indicate the distance from any places in Malaysia to Kuala Lumpur city centre (Amree, 2007). It has become even
more easily spotted since the reputedly the worlds tallest flag pole was placed at the edge of it lawn.


Figure 16: (a) left picture: Merdeka Square in 1961, (b) right picture: Merdeka Square in 2013. (Source: HangPC2, 2013)

Today, half of the size of the padang and all new structures that were built later on surrounding are being
preserved from when it was created (refer to Figure 16). Mostly part of the Merdeka Square has been preserved
nicely and they are still in good condition which people still can trace back the original identity of the square.
However, they all had lost their original function which makes them now less significant. The urban culture where
it used to be the centre of administrative district and hold annual Merdeka parade in a large scale has disappeared.
This phenomenon is reflected through the survey conducted when the result shows that majority of the people do
not find the transformation of the square from the past is successful (refer to Figure 17). The memory of this space
in the local community is fading. Merdeka Square has, somehow, failed to reflect the collective values of the
Malaysian community.


Figure 17: Data collected from the photo survey. (Source: Author, 2013)


4.9 Kevin Lynchs The Image of the City: Five Elements
From the descriptive analysis, it can be summarized that the Dataran Merdeka and its surrounding area
may contribute as 5 elements of shaping the image of the city as follows:


Figure 18: Diagram of Merdeka Square- 5 elements of Kevin Lynchs Image of the City. (Source: Author, 2013)
Paths
Edges
Districts
Nodes
Landmarks


4.9.1 Paths

Paths here are the traffic roads. Pedestrian walkways are built along the roads. The padang is bounded
by two major roads: Jalan Raja at the east and Jalan Kinabalu at the west. Jalan Raja which encircled the padang
and Lebuh Pasar at the east part are narrower which less traffic is found. Intervening between the major and minor
roads has somehow created a unique but confusing path pattern to the Merdeka Square surrounding, where the
axiality and hierarchy in linkage are not clar.

4.9.2 Edges

Edges are defined by the rivers at the east: Gombak River and Klang River, as well as the main roads
with busy traffic surrounding the padang. Lack of river-crossing bridges and zebra crossing has stopped pedestrian
from the other nodes or districts to come over to Merdeka Square. Together with the heavy traffic roads that run
alongside the padang, Merdeka Square has formed a solid edge in between the neighbouring sites at the both sides
of it.

4.9.3 Districts

Each components surrounds the padang is architecturally and urbanistically associated with formal
compositional relationships in example the street that run along the padang, these two may form a district.
Merdeka Square itself, together with the Selangor Club, has formed a district where it is bounded by the paths
that alienate from the surroundings with the hard edges created insensibly. It has become a quiet district with less
pedestrian visiting throughout the day when there is no function on site.

4.9.4 Nodes

There is no node in the area of Merdeka Square. The nearest major nodes are the pedestrian nodes found
at Masjid Jamek LRT station and Central Market area along the riverside. The nodes at the opposite side of the
river have, however, left a quiet district at the other side of the river, which Merdeka square is located. It is now
only serve as passing point that allows people to come from many other commercial districts such as Jalan Masjid
India and Central Market.

4.9.5 Landmarks

The padang itself has become a landmark for Kuala Lumpur together with the Bangunan Sultan Abdul
Samad, 95-metre flagpole, and Daya Bumi tower. The smaller landmarks are the Selangor Club House. Being
dominance in its green characteristic and broad expanded flat open space, the padang is believed to operate as a
point of reference where from a distance, it can be observed from many angles and distances.





4.10 Summary
Table 1: Summary of all criteria for legibility of Merdeka Square as different architectural meanings and functions. (Source: Author, 2013)
Legibility Criteria Context


As
Public
Open
Space
Access and
Linkages
Well linkages with the road systems.
Good accessibility with public transportation.
Comfort and
Safety
Good setting and access control with proper pedestrian.
Lack of shadings, insufficient lightings at night.
Greeneries
and Amenities
Lack of tall vegetation.
Absence of designated seats.
Activities and
Sociability
Lack of social activities for locals constantly throughout the year.
Less significant as compared to previous years.


As
Civic
Open
Space
Image and
Identity
Good first impression visually.
Strong character with the layout and surrounding structures.
Sense of
Enclosure
Height of surrounding buildings is not enough.
Ratio of building height to width of square is too small.
Visual
Attractions
Strong visual attraction by the unique architecture and landmarks.
History Unsatisfying transformation.
Loosing of its original historical and sociological value.

In
Shaping
Citys
Image
(Kevin
Lynchs The
Image of the
City: Five
Elements)
As Paths Unique but confusing path pattern for users.
As Edges Hard edges formed by the bounded heavy traffic roads which break
pedestrian flow.
As Districts Quiet district with less pedestrian visiting.
Alienate from the other districts.
As Nodes No nodes existing on the padang area.
All nodes are far away from the square.
As Landmarks Serves as a prominent landmark for Kuala Lumpur.
Alignment of a number of good landmarks on site

As a padang, Merdeka Square has done substantially in terms of the physical built environment to serve
as a good open public space to the city. Connectivity including traffic and public transportation system is well
measured to ensure an easy accessibility to the site. However, when it comes to the user experience, some aspects
were not well considered such as the shadings from tall plantations, street amenities and good lighting during
night time. Activities that promote sociability is also lacking. These all aspects have additionally, made the square
a not cosy open space especially for the locals if they want to visit back for the second time. With only tourists
visiting at daily basis now, local sociability is missing.
Good setting with unique surrounding buildings have granted the square a strong character and identity
to the people. Merdeka Square has its irreplaceable value as a civic open space in Kuala Lumpur. However, it is
starting to loose from its original identity which now slowly turning into just a padang without activities that
chaining with the community. Citizens are no longer connected to the heart of urban culture, history and memory
of the historical civic square.


Figure 19: Data collected from the photo survey. (Source: Author, 2013)

The design of Merdeka Square has failed to represent the true identity of its belonging city, Kuala
Lumpur and this is reflected from the survey done (refer to Figure 19). What was being raised up as a major
concern is the true identity of Kuala Lumpur. As mentioned by one of the respondent from the survey, it was
surrounded by busy traffics, and it doesn't really show the unique of Malaysia culture.

When comes to analysing legibility of Merdeka Square in shaping image of the city, it is being found out
that its contribution as the five elements of a city (Kevin Lynch, 1960) were not being achieved successfully. As
the major component of the square and also to the city, the padang is now being questioned its functionality and
its role in contributing a good image to the city, when only the surrounding buildings and historical value of the
place are taking up the role. The Merdeka Square does not shape any image of Kuala Lumpur by itself, but
through the buildings surrounding it, said by one of the respondents from the survey. Another respondent also
said that there is not much image given by the design, the image given by the Merdeka Square is by the historical
value of the place that been through in Malaysia shapes the image. Despite the strong support from the historical
value, the design of the padang is no longer legible to serve as a major element in shaping the citys image as the
time pass through. Meaning of the Merdeka Square in the citys image is diminishing slowly in the mental map
of the general public.


5.0 Conclusion
Stories of Dataran Merdeka have uncovered it significant contributions to the vibrant social cultural
formation and development of Kuala Lumpur city centre. However, after years of transformation, its consistency
as a huge prominent green open square in the heat of the busiest district in Kuala Lumpur is being questioned.
Confidently, it has a strong unique character reinforced by buildings of various architectural styles and premier
events at once. However, with the gradually alterations of planning layout and activity pattern, functionality of
the padang is also affected. From a recreational ground and place for public contemplation, the padang has been
transformed into alienated district that only work well as a tourism spot.

The reviews also find that the legibility of an urban square in shaping city image does not stand on its
own, but because of strong character of surrounding elements and historical value of the place. It is hoped that
this finding might deliver a new perspective for the town planners and landscape architects to address for all
heritage conservation works to conserve the heritage values and also to identify role of the padang in the city. It
can be concluded that the padang and its surrounding area are conveying various role and architectural meanings
to the city and they are all are essential elements for the citys image. However, these meanings of Merdeka
Square to the mental map of the public is now weakening.

The findings implies that identity of a place is a chain connecting different elements, and the disturbance
of one element will affect all others. Inappropriate design and development in the city may be disturb the whole
urban environment. The changes and loss of original functionality which marked the character of a city will
directly weaken the place identity and memory of the place to the nation. This syndrome should be cured as they
will lead to the loss of place meaning. In response to this, the needs of conveying a firm framework for sustaining
valuable historical places within the city should become greatly important in town planning and urban design
practices.


Acknowledgement
I would like to express my gratitude and many thanks to Dr. Roya Shokoochi for her guidance and
constant supervision as well as for providing necessary information regarding the research and also for her support
in completing this research paper. I would like to also thank to whom I had conversations with, and provided me
with many precious information.


References
Amree Ahmad. (2007). Padang banyak melahirkan jaguh sukan. Akhbar Kosmo. 19
th
August 2007. p.12.

Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing (2009). Urban Squares. Healthy Spaces & Places.
Australia. Retrieved from http://www.healthyplaces.org.au/site/urban_squares_full_text.php

Chandran, J. (2004). The padang; Kuala Lumpur in Kuala Lumpur; corporate, capital, cultural cornucopia. Arus
Intelek Sdn.Bhd. pp. 117,118 & 119.

Child, M.C. (2004).Squares: A public place design guide for urbanists. USA. University of New Mexico
Press.

Danisworo (1989) Konsep Peremajaan Kota, Institut Teknologi Bandung.
Feagin, J., Orum, A., & Sjoberg, G. (Eds.). (1991). A case for case study. Chapel Hill, NC: University of North
Carolina Press.
Federal department of Town and Country planning, Peninsula Malaysia. (2005). Open spaces in Urban
Malaysia. Ministry of Housing and Local Government Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. pp. 15-39.
Ferdous, F. (2011, May). The morphological evolution of the Bazaar Streets: A configurational analysis of
the urban layout of Dhaka City. Paper presented at the Environmental Design Research Association,
Chicago, IL.
Gehl, J. (2002). Public Space and Public Life City of Adelaide: 2002. Adelaide. Retrieved from
http://www.adelaidecitycouncil.com/assets/acc/Council/docs/public_spaces_and_public_life_report.pdf

HangPC2. (2013). KLs Dataran Merdeka Then & Now [Post 878] Message posted to
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=438753&page=126

Hoyt, S.H. (1993). Old Malacca. Oxford University Press. Kuala Lumpur. pp.67-68
Khalid, A. (2008). Toward a Sustainable Neighbourhood: The Role of Open Spaces. Archnet-IJAR (Vol.2).
King, R. (2008). Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya: Negotiating Urban Space in Malaysia. Singapore, NUS Press
Levy B. Urban Square as the Place of History, Memory, Identity, In: Dusica Drazic, Slavica Radisic, Marijana
Simu (eds), Memory of the City, Kulturklammer, Belgrade, 2012; pp 156-173.

Lynch, K. (1960). Image of the city. Cambridge, Mass. London, Eng.: MIT Press, repr. 2000.

Moffat. (1983). Model of First generation CPTED The Key Concepts; territoriality, surveillance (informal
and formal), access control, image/maintenance, activity programme support and target hardening.

Murat Z. Memluk (2013). Designing Urban Squares, Advances in Landscape Architecture, Dr. Murat Ozyavuz
(Ed.), ISBN: 978-953-51-1167-2, InTech, DOI: 10.5772/55826. Retrieved from
http://www.intechopen.com/books/advances-in-landscape-architecture/designing-urban-squares

Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia. (2007). Architectural heritage Kuala Lumpur. Maziza Sdn. Bhd. Kuala Lumpur

Project for Public Spaces (2009). 10 Principles for Successful Squares. Retrieved from
https://www.pps.org/reference/squaresprinciples/

Project for Public Spaces (2009). What Makes a Successful Place. Retrived from
https://www.pps.org/reference/grplacefeat/

Sitte, C., 1889 (2012). City Planning According to Artistic Principles [Reviewed by Thomas Sydney]. Retrieved
from http://architectureandurbanism.blogspot.com/2012/11/camillo-sitte-city-planning-according.html

Tellis, W. (1997). Application of Case Study Methodology. The Qualitative Report (Vol. 3, No. 3). Retrieved
from http://www.nova.edu/ssss/QR/QR3-3/tellis2.html

The Scottish Government. (2009). Designing Streets: Consultation Draft: Part 6. Retrieved from
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/01/27140909/6

The Star. (2012). More than 1,000 gather in Jalan Sultan for Night of Activities. Retrieved from
http://www.thestar.com.my/story.aspx?file=/2012/2/8/central/10685748

The Star. (2013). Malaysians Celebrate 56
th
Merdela Day in patriotic fervor.. Retrieved from
http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2013/08/31/merdeka-parade-nationwide.aspx
Wijnen, B. V. Merdeka Square. Retrieved from http://www.malaysiasite.nl/merdekaeng.htm
Yin, R. (1994). Case study research: Design and methods (Ed. 2). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publishing.
Zalina, H. & Ismail, S. (2008). Role and Fate of Padang in Malaysia Historical Citites. Paper presented at: 5th
Great Asian Street Symposium 2008, Singapore 5-7 December 2008, National University of
Singapore.


Appendix A: Original Form of Photo Survey










Appendix B: Table of Data Collected from Survey