
Istana is a precious and important part of Singapore’s history and has born witness to Singapore’s many historical milestones. The main Istana building, then known as Government House was completed in 1869. It used to house the Governors and top administrators of Colonial Singapore. In 1959, the building was handed to the Singapore Government when Singapore gained self-government. It was renamed Istana, meaning “Palace” in Malay. Today, as the official residence of the President of Singapore, the Istana continues to be a symbol of authority.