History of Negaraku


History of Negaraku (national anthem)

The national song was created in 1957 and was selected by former Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj Ibni Almarhum Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah. The rhythm of “Negaraku” was taken from the rhythm of the state song of Perak. 

The state song of Perak in turn was inspired by the song “Terang Bulan” that was the favourite song of Sultan Abdullah, the Sultan of Perak when he was in exile on the island of Seychelles. 

Negaraku stresses loyalty and unity among the citizens for the development and future of the country. The purpose of this song is to inculcate the spirit of patriotism and a love for the homeland.

The idea for creating the National Song arose during preparations for the celebration of the Independence Day. A National Song had to be played during the ceremony of the Declaration of Independence that was set on 31stAugust 1957. 

Therefore, in February 1957, a competition to compose the national song was held and judged by a committee headed by Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj. However, four songs that were shortlisted were rejected. Tunku Abdul Rahman instead suggested the national song to be based on the state song of Perak.

The music score for Negaraku was a collaborative effort by Alfonso Soliano (head of the Malaya Radio Orchestra), D.S.P Cross (Music Director, Marching band of the Royal Police), Captain Lenthall (Music Director, Marching Band of the Malay Army, Port Dickson) and A.T. Reed (Chief Executive of Malaya Radio). 

The lyrics were written by a committee that was headed by Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, with the consent of the Sultans of Malaya.

Negaraku was heard for the very first time on 31st August 1957 at the Selangor Club Field. On that night, the Union Jack flag was taken down and replaced with the flag of the Federation of Malaya, accompanied by Negaraku. From that moment, Negaraku remained as the national anthem of the country.

Official Year Book, Publish by Department of Information Malaysia

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