Tugu Negara

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Tugu Negara, literally National Monument in Malay, is a sculpture that commemorates those who died in Malaysia's struggle for freedom, principally against the Japanese occupation during World War II and the Malayan Emergency , which lasted from 1948 until 1960. It is located in the Federal capital, Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysian Houses of Parliament is situated near the monument.

The monument depicts a group of soldiers holding the Malaysian national flag, the Jalur Gemilang, aloft. Each of the bronze figures symbolizes leadership, suffering, unity, vigilance, strength, courage and sacrifice.

Constructed in 1966, the monument is 15 meters ( -- feet) tall, made of bronze and was designed by Austrian sculptor Felix de Weldon, who was also responsible for the famed USMC War Memorial in Virginia, United States.

In 1975, the monument suffered extensive damage due to an explosion set off by a communist terrorist. It has since been restored to its original state.

[edit] Reference

• New Straits Times. In honour of our fallen heroes Extracted December 16 2005.