PM’s official residence boasts beautiful grounds and architecture

PUTRAJAYA: Like the White House, the Seri Perdana Complex here has become a tourist attraction. Set on a hill, the Prime Minister’s official residence comprises three blocks and beautifully landscaped grounds overlooking the Putrajaya Lake. Open for public viewing are the Banquet and Protocol Blocks, both two-storey buildings that serve various functions. On a guided tour, visitors can admire the latest souvenirs gifted to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor in the gallery section of the Banquet Block.

Serenely beautiful: The Prime Minister’s official residence, the elegant Seri Perdana Complex overlooks the Putrajaya Lake. Seri Perdana is open for public viewing daily from 9am to 3pm except Fridays.

Some of these include precious gemstones from Brunei, an Olympic gold and jade medallion set from China and a model of a Middle-Eastern school that the Saudi Arabian Government gifted to Rosmah. The Banquet Hall is situated on the second floor and features a grid framework ceiling, Malay-Islamic traditional details and a massive light blue and gold carpet which covers the entire floor. Also of interest is the Special Dining Hall in the Protocol Block where Najib holds banquets for local and foreign dignitaries. Here, glittering chandeliers, french doors and charming alcoves are a sight to see.

The Dome Gallery is situated upstairs and boasts a stunning centrepiece of a huge floor-to-ceiling length tapestry with holy inscriptions gifted by the Saudi Arabian Government. New Zealander Carol Cross, 40, said she loved the calm and serene atmosphere of the Main Guest Salon where heads of states are welcomed. “It’s absolutely beautiful. I love it and will tell all my friends to visit this place,” said the first-time tourist to Malaysia.

The White House in the United States and the Buckingham Palace in Britain also allow public tours to certain parts of their sprawling complex. While visitors to the White House have to make their requests through their Congressional representatives, tickets are available for Buckingham Palace during certain times of the year only. Located in Precinct 10, weekday visitors to Seri Perdana must register for the guided tour seven days in advance while walk-in visits are allowed on weekends and public holidays. Seri Perdana is open to the public daily from 9am to 3pm except Fridays. Visit www.seriperdana.gov.my for details.

-thestar online.