Merdeka Square has been at the center of Kelantan’s history since 1844, when it was established by Sultan Muhammad II as part of the new state capital. Originally, the area was known as Buluh Kubu (Bamboo Fort) because it was surrounded by bamboo-picketed fences. After the construction of the nearby Mercantile Bank (Bank Kerapu) in 1912, the locals began calling it Padang Bank. The square has witnessed significant historical events: The Tok Janggut Incident: In 1915, following the rebellion against British tax policies, the body of the fallen warrior Tok Janggut was publicly displayed here by the British as a warning to the local population. World War I Memorial: In 1922, a memorial was built to honor the British and local soldiers who served in the Great War. Independence: The square was officially renamed Padang Merdeka to commemorate the declaration of independence for Malaya in 1957, and it continues to host the state’s annual Independence Day parades.