Merdeka Hotel

The water pressure being low is understandable, but there was no hot water at all. I spent three nights showering in cold water, just as another reviewer mentioned. There’s no soundproofing either, and all the banging made a midday nap impossible. This was my first stay here, and my last.

The staff were genuinely nice and helpful, but I don’t understand the high ratings. The hotel needs renovation. Our shower only ran hot, the curtains didn’t fit the windows, the sink tap was loose, and the air con barely worked. There was just one coffee cup for two people and hardly any furniture to put things on. There wasn’t even an emergency exit sign in the room. The 4th-floor carpet looked about as old as the hotel, and who knows what might be living in it. At breakfast, seeing a cockroach run across the floor was enough for me to skip it. The place seems to have gone too long without investment. I wouldn’t stay again: there are too many problems to fix for it to be value for money.

The location is strategic, parking was available when we arrived, and the renovated lobby looks impressive. After that, things went downhill. The lift is said to be the oldest in Kluang. It works, but felt frightening and dangerous, and it was under maintenance at checkout, so we had to carry our luggage from the 4th floor to the ground floor. The room was very outdated, with an old lock and inner latch. The card system cuts the electricity, making the fridge useless. It was a family room, but the bathroom door had no latch or lock and offered almost no privacy, with the inside nearly visible from outside. The built-in water heater didn’t get hot at night or early in the morning, and the pressure was so weak that washing up took more than 30 minutes. I could have missed meetings while bathing there. There was also a big, fat lizard roaming the walls and hiding behind the aircon, which scared everyone, especially the women. No room service either: towels weren’t changed unless we asked, and the room wasn’t tidied or cleaned. Only shower gel, shampoo, and coffee were provided. The sheets had yellow stains facing down, which we only noticed after lifting the comforter. TV channels were very limited and all showed rain, so we couldn’t watch proper shows or movies.

The breakfast area was clean and cozy, with attentive staff. The complimentary spread had eggs, toast, pastries, cereal, some fruit, plus fresh coffee, tea, and juice. It was generally tasty, though a few more hot dishes or local specialties would have made it more memorable. Getting around was convenient, with local attractions and public transport nearby, while the hotel itself felt tucked away from the bustle. Check-in went smoothly, the staff were friendly and accommodating, and my room was clean, maintained well, and had the basics, including a comfortable bed, air conditioning, and a spacious bathroom. I especially liked how quiet it was after a long day. My stay at Merdeka Hotel was pleasant overall.