PETALING JAYA: The bunga raya does not only give Malaysia a national identity but symbolises the unity of its people in achieving a common goal, say Malaysians.

       Nur Amelia Adam, a teacher from Kuala Lumpur, said although the national flower was not entirely unique or rare as it could be found anywhere in the country, it still reflected “a common goal” that Malaysians want to achieve in this land of diversity.

       “Despite being a small nation, Malaysia still impacts the world in her own way.

       “Each state and ethnic group in Malaysia have their own history and uniqueness.

       “As a Malaysian, I am grateful to have been able to experience, appreciate and respect different cultures since childhood,” said the 26-year-old.

       She also hopes that the 64th National Day celebration will fuel the people’s spirit of togetherness to drive the nation forward.

       Salesperson Nabiha Mustaffa, 20, of Felcra Sri Rampai, Kuala Lumpur, said the bunga raya represented the beauty of the country, besides being a symbol of pride for Malaysians.

       As the country marks its National Day, she hopes that it will recover from the Covid-19 pandemic soon.“I am also thankful that Malaysia is a peaceful country,” she said.

       Her friend Nazatul Nazira, 20, hails the national flower as a symbol that unites the people of Malaysia.

       “I am grateful to be a Malaysian who knows people of different races.

       “What’s more, Malaysians are truly friendly people,” she added.

       Bunga raya or Hibiscus rosa-sinensis was chosen as the national flower by Malaysia’s first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra al-Haj on July 28, 1960.

       The red variant of the flower was picked as the colour is a part of the national flag.

       The five petals represent the country’s five pillars of the Rukun Negara.