What Malay name is used for Malaysia's national flower?

Malaysia’s national flower is called bunga raya in Malay. The name refers to Hibiscus × rosa-sinensis, commonly known in English as Chinese hibiscus or China rose.

Malaysia officially selected the hibiscus on 28 July 1960, when Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj declared it the national flower. The choice followed consideration of seven flowers, including jasmine, lotus, rose, magnolia, ylang-ylang and bunga tanjung.

Bunga raya is often translated as “grand flower” or “celebratory flower.” Its five petals are commonly associated with the five principles of Malaysia’s Rukun Negara, while the red form symbolizes courage and vitality. The flower also appears in Malaysian national imagery, including currency.

A common mix-up is confusing the Malay name with the botanical name: bunga raya is not a separate species, but the local name for this cultivated tropical hibiscus. Other hibiscus species exist, but the national symbol is specifically associated with Hibiscus × rosa-sinensis.