The Istana meaning "palace" in Malay and is the official residence and office of the President of the Republic of Singapore and also the place to receive and entertain state guests and also the working office of the Prime Minister. It was built during the colonial period between 1867 and 1869 and know as the Government House of Singapore official home of the British Governor and this continues until 1959 when Singapore attained self-government and was replaced by the Yang di-Pertuan Negara who was in turn replaced by the President. There are occasionally open to the public to visit on special occasions during Chinese Lunar New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali, Christmas and also the country National Day.
