Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has defended Khazanah Nasional Bhd's (Khazanah) RM600 million investment for the restoration of heritage buildings in Kuala Lumpur, including Carcosa Seri Negara, describing them as significant landmarks that embody the nation's history and identity.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Finance Minister emphasized that the historic buildings are not merely relics of the past but symbols of the Malay Rulers' heritage and the nation's journey towards independence. Anwar addressed questions concerning Carcosa, highlighting its importance as a heritage site and a legacy of the Malay Rulers. He expressed pride in the nation's history and stressed the importance of recognizing Kuala Lumpur as a city that is both technologically advanced and culturally rich. Anwar noted that such investments could stimulate further development in surrounding areas.

Anwar announced the investment during the tabling of Budget 2026 last week. Carcosa Seri Negara, built in 1896 by Sir Frank Swettenham, the first British Resident-General of the Federated Malay States, served as his official residence from 1904. It was also the site of the signing of the Federation of Malaya Agreement in 1957. Anwar assured that the conservation efforts in Kuala Lumpur would not neglect surrounding structures or places of worship, including churches and Hindu temples.

On Monday, Khazanah managing director Datuk Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir clarified that the RM600 million investment encompasses not only the restoration of Carcosa Seri Negara but also six blocks of buildings within the Sultan Abdul Samad Building Complex. He explained that the investment is part of the Warisan KL initiative, which aims to revitalize the capital's heritage and redefine its cultural and economic significance.