Malaysia National Monument, Kuala Lumpur

The beautiful monument of Malaysia

The idea for the construction of the National Monument (Tugu Peringatan Negara Malaysia) was mooted by the then Prime Minister of Malaysia, YTM Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Alhaj in 1963 to commemorate the warriors who died defending the country and struggle for freedom, principally against theJapanese occupation during World War II. It is really a sculpture in memory of warriors who died during the nations struggle for freedom. It is a good place to see in order to take a walk down history lane. It was designed by the famous sculptor, Felix de Weldon, who also designed the Iwo Jima Memorial in Washington. The 15.54 metre high bronze monument depicts seven soldiers symbolizing the seven qualities of leadership. Each of the bronze figures symbolizes leadership, suffering, unity, vigilance, strength, courage and sacrifice. The sculpture, holding the Malaysian national flag, the Jalur Gemilang. In 1975, the monument underwent a major damage because of an explosion set off by a terrorist. However, the monument was restored to its original state soon. After erecting a fence, the complex was stated a protected area between sunset and dawn.