Malaysia celebrates 50 years of national flower

September 30, 2010

On September 30th Malaysia celebrated the 50th anniversary of the bunga raya as its national flower, reports MalaysianDigest.com.

The flower, commonly known as hibiscus, is considered a symbol of national identity and unity. A special coin was launched for the celebration as well as a bunga raya themed song. Souvenir items such as books and CDs were handed out to state governments that participated in the celebrations.

In recent years, the flower’s importance and symbolism has decreased, “Many among the younger generation do not even know the history and the status of Bunga Raya as the national flower,” Datuk Seri Dr Rais, minister of information communication and culture, commented in his speech, according to the news source.

The bunga raya was chosen for its vibrant red color which symbolizes courage and its five petals which represent the five tenets of Rukunegara, the Malaysian declaration of national philosophy.

Hibiscus blooms throughout the year and is usually found in tropical climates. There are around 300 species of hibiscus which serve as decorative plants, vegetables and herbs, according to Bernama.com.

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