Jalur Gemilang - Malaysian Flag

Symbolic representation of the flag

The Malaysia flag, first raised on 16 September 1963, originated from the flag of the Federation of Malaya. Prior to the creation of the national flag, each state in Malaya had its own flag, many of which remain unchanged to this day.

The stripes from the flag of Majapahit were incorporated together with the canton containing the crescent and star from the flag of Johor to create what is now the flag of Malaysia.

The flag is a combination of traditional Islamic symbols and the representation of all the states under the federation. The 14 stripes and 14 points of the star represent the equal status of all 14 member states, namely Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Pulau Pinang, Perak, Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor and Terengganu in the Federal Government. The significance of the design was given as follows:

• The colour red signifies strength, bravery and courage in facing challenges.
• The colour white symbolises honesty and integrity.
• The dark blue canton represents the unity and harmony of the peoples of Malaysia.
• The crescent represents Islam as the dominant religion.
• The 14-pointed star symbolises the unity of the 13 states with the Federal Government.
• The yellow colour of the crescent and star represent the sovereignty of the Malay Rulers and their roles as leader of the faith in the constituent states.

The meaning of "JALUR GEMILANG”

Jalur (pronounced jah-loor) – A Malay word meaning a band or stripe of colour. The 14 parallel red and white stripes symbolise a common mission, a common direction and a virtuous path followed by the peoples of all states regardless of creed, race and religion.

Gemilang (pronounced guh-mee-lung) – meaning bright, brilliant, resplendent or excellent

Jalur Gemilang represents the excellence of the peoples and the nation of Malaysia in every field, on both national and international level. Jalur Gemilang symbolises a virtuous, patriotic, strong and courageous nation ready to sacrifice for the good of their race, nation and religion.

Article Contributed By: Mr. Muhammad Faridzulzaim, Front Desk Management Trainee