Muzium Negara
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Muzium Negara (which is National Museum in Malay) is the Malaysian national museum, which is located outside Perdana Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
It is a palatial structure built in the style of Minangkabau architecture. Located atop a hill on Jalan Travers, it provides an interesting introduction to the history and culture of Malaysia. Built in the style of a Rumah Gadang, its impressive facade of two large murals depicts scenes of the country's colourful past and rich culture.
[edit] History
It was the site of the former Selangor Museum. It was built by the British and Selangor governments in 1898 following the formation of Federated Malay States in 1896. However, during World War II, the right wing of museum was suddenly bombed and destroyed by Imperial Japanese Navy's air strike during the invasion of Kuala Lumpur in 1941.
After the Second World War, the left wing of Selangor Museum was still in use as a historical site. After Federation of Malaya achieved its independence on 31 August 1957, the federal government decided to build the national museum at the old site of Selangor Museum. Construction began in 1961 and completed in 1965. Muzium Negara was officially opened on 22 November 1965.
[edit] Interior
Displays and exhibits in the museum focus on local history, culture and traditions, arts and crafts, economic activities, local flora and fauna, weapons and currency.
The museum houses various galleries, each with its own theme. The Historical Gallery traces the different periods in the history of Peninsular Malaysia. The Cultural Gallery is a collection of various aspects of Malaysian culture, from common everyday pastimes to important ceremonial customs. Included in the exhibits are a Malay wedding scene, a royal circumcision ceremony, and a presentation on the heritage of the Peranakan community. The Metalwork and Musical Instruments Gallery showcases various objects and utensils from kitchenware and ceremonial ornaments to weapons and traditional instruments of Malaysian music.
Other galleries include the National Sports Gallery and the Natural History Gallery. In the museum grounds are historical locomotives, vintage cars and other relics of transport. Reconstructed Malay palaces from others parts of the country also grace the expansive grounds. The Muzium Negara also holds regular thematic exhibitions featuring specific aspects of life and culture from all over the world.
