Wednesday, April 6, 2011

National Monument

The idea of construction of National Monument was mooted by the then Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman in 1963 to commemorate the warriors who died defending the sovereign of the country.

An area measuring 48, 562 square metres facing the Lake Gardens was set aside for the construction. The monument complex encompasses five main components, the National Monument, fountains, pavilion, a war memorial and the surrounding gardens.

The monument embodying 7 bronze statues also represents the triumph of the forces democracy over the force of evil.

The 7 men from the Malaysian Security Forces symbolizing the seven qualities of leadership, unity, strength, vigilance, suffering, courage and sacrifice.

The monument was designed by an American sculptor, Felix De Weldon and was completed in 1966. It was unveiled on 8th February of the same year and from then on a ceremony to commemorate the passing of the warriors is held here annually.

The pavilion itself also have something to offer for the visitors. At its ceiling, are the plaques where almost all the insignia of the armed forces around the world.

Traders also use a spot within the pavilion to sell portraits.

Prior to the construction of the present National Monument, another monument was erected near the old KL Railway Station after World War I to commemorate the warriors who died during the war.

The names of warriors who died during World War II were added onto the monument until it was replaced by the present National Monument.

The National Monument complex also offers a breathtaking view of Kuala Lumpur city and a clear view of the adjacent Parliament building.

2 comments:

soulesscloudy said...

I cant remember when was the last time i be there...

Johnny Ong said...

must pay a visit to this place again. i think it was umpteenth yrs ago