Dataran Merdeka, or Independence Square, is not only a central landmark in Kuala Lumpur but also a symbol of Malaysian sovereignty. It was here, against the backdrop of the iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building, that the Union Flag was lowered and the Malaysian flag hoisted for the first time at the stroke of midnight on August 31, 1957, marking the country's independence from British rule. Today, this square is a venue for the annual National Day parades, a testament to its enduring significance in the nation's history and cultural heritage.