MERDEKA! MERDEKA! MERDEKA !

The spirit of this word will soon resonate in our country as we celebrate National Day on 31,August 2016

Do you know stories about our country national flower (Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis)?

 

Hibiscus is derived from the Greek word hibiskos. Belonging to a family of flowering plants known as Malvaceae, it has few hundreds of species which are native to tropical and sub-tropical weather. Colours range from white to yellow, peach, pink and red.

Our national flower is the ‘Hibiscus Rosa Sinensis’ with a red colour flower. In the Tunku Abdul Rahman Memorial(Kuala Lumpur), stands a plaque which explains the symbolism of this species of hibiscus as our national flower. Thes red colour symbolizes political and economic stability while, the various colours, sizes, and shapes of its different species signify the multicultural and multi-religious races living in harmony.

The search for a national flower to represent Malaysia began in 1958 when the Ministry of Agriculture requested proposals from the different states. Apart from the hibiscus, the other flowers proposed were rose, jasmine, lotus, frangipani and bunga tanjung. Several factors favored the hibiscus in the comparison to other flowers. First, it is well-known and flourishes throughout the country, being commonly used as hedge fencing in rural houses. It is non-seasonal and flowers throughout the year. Lastly, it grows easily and requires little maintenance. So on July 28, 1960, the “Queen of Tropical Flowers” was crowned our national flower.

To appreciate this flower, go to the Hibiscus Garden in the Perdana Botanical Garden, KL. The two fountains and a 4-meter high artificial waterfall provide opportunities for shooting breathtaking selfies Within the garden, a colonial-style bungalow has been converted into an art gallery and a tea house. Another hibiscus park is in Sabah Agricultural Park in Tenom, Sabah. The hibiscus is more than just a pretty flower. Ayurvedic physicians use its flowers and leaves to make liquid extracts for use as Shampoo to promote hair growth. In many African countries, the fibre from the hibiscus plant is used as a substitute for jute. Hibiscus tea is consumed in many communities to relieve a variety of mild medical conditions.

Let’s toast together on our national day !