Today 31st August 2012 is Malaysia's 55th Independence Day (Hari Merdeka). To celebrate this day, I am sharing photos of Malaysia's national flower, the hibiscus (also known as bunga raya in Malay).
Red-layered hibiscus
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis - Malaysia's national flower
Introduced into the Malay Peninsula in the 12th century, it was nominated as the national flower in the year 1958 by the Ministry of Agriculture amongst a few other flowers, namely ylang ylang, jasmine, lots, rose, magnolia and bunga tanjung.On 28 July 1960, hibiscus was declared by the government of Malaysia as the national flower.
The word bunga in Malay means "flower", whilst raya in Malay means "big" or "grand". The hibiscus is literally known as the "big flower" in Malay. The red of the petals symbolizes the courage, life, and rapid growth of the Malaysian, and the five petals represent the five Rukun Negara of Malaysia. The flower can be found imprinted on the notes and coins of the Malaysian ringgit. (source:Wikipedia)
White hibiscus
Yellow hibiscus
Happy Merdeka Day to all Malaysians!
Happy Merdeka !!
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