Nestled gracefully on the northern expanse of Merdeka Square in Central Jakarta, Indonesia, the Merdeka Palace, or Istana Merdeka, stands as a regal symbol of Indonesian sovereignty and history. This illustrious edifice, known as Istana Gambir during Dutch colonial rule and Paleis te Koningsplein in that era, once served as the abode of the governor-general of the Dutch East Indies. However, in 1949, echoing the nation's newfound independence, it was christened the Merdeka Palace, symbolizing the spirit of freedom that defines Indonesia. As one of six presidential palaces in the archipelago, it now serves as the official residence of the President of the Republic of Indonesia. Set amidst the sprawling Jakarta Presidential Palace Complex, spanning 6.8 hectares, it sits at the heart of executive authority, alongside other notable structures like Negara Palace, Wisma Negara, Sekretariat Negara, and the Bina Graha building. With its rich heritage and central role in Indonesian governance, the Merdeka Palace stands as a timeless emblem of the nation's enduring spirit and leadership.