Perched along Downing Street sits Bangunan Tuanku Syed Putra. This government office building is most known for housing the Penang General Post Office. But have you ever wondered about its story?
Bangunan Tuanku Syed Putra carries the name of Tuanku Syed Putra. He was the Raja of Perlis. He also served as the third Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia. He reigned from 1960 to 1965. It was during this time that Malaya transformed into Malaysia.
Before Bangunan Tuanku Syed Putra, the Town Club occupied this site. The Town Club was a social hub for European businessmen. Next to it stood a government building. It housed the Education Department and Treasury Office. During the Second World War, Japanese bombs destroyed the Town Club, the government building, and the Hong Kong & Shanghai Bank building.
Bangunan Tuanku Syed Putra holds a special place in history. It was the first major government building in Penang after Malaysia’s independence. In 1961, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra al-Haj laid its foundation stone. He was the first prime minister of Malaya. The building was completed in 1962. Raja Tun Uda, the first Governor of Penang, officially opened it.
Bangunan Tuanku Syed Putra was built in the International architectural style. In 1962, the completion of Bangunan Tuanku Syed Putra made it the tallest building in Penang. It stood ten stories high. It featured colorful facades of yellow and red. Greyish-blue walls wrapped around its ends. It housed various state and federal government offices.
For many, the General Post Office was the most frequented spot. It was conveniently located on the ground floor. Over the years, countless high-rise buildings have dwarfed it.
Today Bangunan Tuanku Syed Putra may no longer be the tallest. It remains a significant landmark in Penang. It reminds us of the nation’s journey after independence. It symbolizes progress and transformation. Next time you pass by, remember its history. Remember the story of Bangunan Tuanku Syed Putra.