Negaraku
Tanah tumpahnya darah ku
Rakyat hidup bersatu dan maju
Rahmat bahagia Tuhan kurniakan
Raja kita selamat bertakhta
Rahmat bahagia Tuhan kurniakan
Raja kita selamat bertakhta

(Maestoso)

The National Anthem ‘Negaraku’ was played for the first time after midnight on the eve of 31 August 1957 at the Selangor Club Ground. On that historic night, the Union Jack flag was lowered and replaced with the flag of the Federation of Malaya, accompanied by the National Anthem ‘Negaraku’. Starting from this moment, the song ‘Negaraku’ has remained the official national anthem.

History of the National Anthem

1. Beginning of history

• • The idea to create a National Anthem arose when the country was preparing to celebrate independence day.
  • The National Anthem had to be played at the independence declaration ceremony which was set for 31 August 1957.

2. Song Selection

• • A competition to create an official song was held in February 1957, but the final four shortlisted songs were rejected.
  • Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj suggested that the Perak state anthem be used as the basis.
  • The original rhythm was taken from the Perak state anthem, which was inspired by Sultan Abdullah's favorite song "Terang Bulan" (when he was in exile in the Seychelles).
  • This proposal was approved by the Special Committee for the Selection of the National Anthem (JKPLK).

3. Music & Lyrics Arrangement

• • The musical score was prepared by Alfonso Soliano, D.S.P Croff, Captain Lenthall and A.T Reed.
  • The lyrics were drafted by a special committee headed by Tunku Abdul Rahman, with the approval of the Malay Sultans.

4. Historical Moment

• • On the eve of 31 August 1957, the Union Jack flag was lowered and the flag of the Federation of Malaya was raised accompanied by the National Anthem, Negaraku.
  • Since then, it has remained the official symbol of the country, strengthening the spirit of patriotism of the people.

Reference: Jabatan Penerangan Malaysia