Monday, March 15, 2010

National Anthem of Malaysia

Song Title : "Negaraku" ("My Country")

Lyrics : Multiple authors including Tunku Abdul Rahman as the lead lyricists

Music : Pierre Jean de Beranger

The search for the National Anthem of Malaysia is an interesting story. It started when the country realised that each state in Malaysia has its own anthem but they didn't have an anthem for the country as a whole. So, Tunku Abdul Rahman proposed on a search for a suitable anthem. The search was done by organizing a competition where people worldwide joined but the main objective failed. Their effort then continued by inviting some of the well-known composers from all over the world, but this too failed. Finally, they turned to the National Anthem of one of its state, Perak, called 'Allah Lanjutkan Usia Sultan', and changed the lyrics of this song. And so, Malaysia has their own national anthem as a whole. It was established as Malaysia National Anthem in 1957.

Translation of the Lyrics in English

My country, the country where my blood is shed,

The people live united and progressive,

Blessings of happiness, may God grant,

(And that) Our King may reign in peace,

Blessings of happiness, may God grant,

(And that) Our King may reign in peace.

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