The Flag of Malaysia

The History of Malaysia’s Flag

At first glance, Malaysia’s flag has similarities with the flag of the United States of America. What makes our flag stand out is the yellow crescent moon and the star. It features 14 alternating red and white stripes as well as a blue canton in the upper left corner. The 14 stripes represent and symbolize the equality of the 13 member states that make up the country plus the federal government. 

Back in 1947, a young 29 years old architect named Mohamed Hamzah entered a competition to design the Malaysian flag. Through a voting process, the public chose his design out of 373 designs. The Malaysian flag was first raised on September 16, 1963 after the declaration of the Federated States of Malaya. 

The Colours Meaning

• Red, White & Blue: Represents Malaysia as one of the Commonwealth countries
  
  • Red – Willingness, valiance and boldness
  • White – Honesty and nobility
  • Blue – Unity and obedience
• Crescent & Star: Represents that Islam is the official religion in Malaysia
  
  • Yellow – Loyalty to the King and Country
    

Interesting Facts About the Malaysia’s Flag (Jalur Gemilang)

1. 3 additional stripes were added to the existing flag and the star was given 14 points to reflect the federation of the original 11 states in Malaya plus Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore. The design remains the same even after 2 years of Singapore repulsion from the federation
2. The fourteenth stripe and point in the star came to be associated with the federal government (Kuala Lumpur, Labuan & Putrajaya).
3. Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad asked the country to name the Malaysian flag in 1997 and “Jalur Gemilang” was chosen. It means “Stripes of Glory” in English language.
4. The flag was the winning design in the flag design competition!

Show Your Patriotism with Jalur Gemilang

Malaysia’s flag is a symbol of unity, independence, glory, sovereignty and freedom. A national flag also brings the spirit of patriotism to all the citizens of Malaysia. As such, we at ITSSB urge all people of Malaysia, organisations and households to fly the Jalur Gemilang at their offices, workplaces, homes and vehicles to show our patriotism to the country.

It is a blessing to be born in a country that is filled with unique diversity, harmonious cultures, beautiful country and people. We are free from natural disasters and surrounded with friendly people of all races and of course, the food! Looking for Malaysia’s flag? We got you covered. Shop for the best Malaysia Flag online at ITSSB today!