The National Monument or Tugu Negara was built to recognise and honour those who gave up their lives in the cause for peace and freedom, particularly during the nation's struggle against the threat of Communism (the period of Emergency).

The memorial site where the National Monument stands is located within the tranquil Lake Gardens, close by to the Parliament House in Kuala Lumpur, occupying an area of approximately 48,562 sq m.

There are five principal components that comprise the memorial site: the monument itself; a long rectangular reflecting pool with fountain; a crescent-shaped pavillion; the cenotaph; and the ancillary gardens. The monument is situated at the centre of the reflecting pool.

The Cenotaph

The National Monument stands at 15.54m high, and is made up of a diorama of seven bronze human figures, atop an oblong base; each figure denoting one of seven qualities: courage, leadership, sacrifice, strength, suffering, unity and vigilance.

The topmost figure, at the centre, holds aloft the Malaysian flag. He is flanked on the left and right by two other soldiers, both armed; the figure on the left is armed with a machinegun, while the other carries a rifle and a bayonet.

Kneeling slightly on the rightside of the central figure is a fourth soldier, who is tending to a fifth wounded compatriot. To the front and below these five figures are two fallen enemies.

The monument, which represents the triumph of democracy, was designed by the renowned American sculptor Felix de Weldon; and was built at a cost of RM600,000. The memorial site, which was completed in 1966, took over five years to construct.

The National Monument stands at 15.54m high [Click on image for a closer view]