In the heart of Southeast Asia lies a country rich in cultural diversity, stunning landscapes, and a robust economy – Malaysia. At the center of its economic landscape is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), the official currency that reflects the nation’s economic vitality. Let’s explore the Malaysian Ringgit and the cultural influences that have shaped it.
Historical Evolution
The Malaysian Ringgit has a fascinating history that mirrors the nation’s development. Its origins can be traced back to the Spanish dollar, which was commonly used in the region during the 16th and 17th centuries. Over the years, various currencies circulated in the area, reflecting the influence of different colonial powers. The Ringgit, as we know it today, was introduced in 1967, replacing the Malaysian and British Borneo dollar.
Cultural Influences
Beyond its economic role, the Malaysian Ringgit is more than just a medium of exchange. It is a reflection of Malaysia’s rich history, cultural diversity, and economic resilience. The designs on the banknotes showcase the nation’s multicultural heritage.
Design Elements of the Malaysian Ringgit
The polymer banknotes share design elements on their obverse, featuring Tuanku Abdul Rahman wearing a tengkolok headgear. Tuanku Abdul Rahman was the first Paramount Ruler or Yang di-Pertuan Agong of the Federation of Malaya. Other shared designs are a traditional woven fabric pattern called “songket” and a Rosa-sinensis hibiscus flower which was declared to be Malaysia’s national flower in 1960. Its color represents life, courage, and growth while the petals symbolize Malaysia’s five principles.
More Malaysian Ringgit Banknotes
The 1 Ringgit note, adorned in shades of blue, is an illustration of a traditional sport kite flying, showing a wau bulan (moon kite).
Dominated by shades of green, the 5 Ringgit note’s theme revolves around Malaysia’s natural environment, highlighting rhinoceros hornbill birds in the forest.
The 10 Ringgit note in earthy tones of yellow and red pays homage to Malaysia’s natural beauty with an illustration of Rafflesia azlanii flowers. Endemic to Peninsular Malaysia, this parasitic flower was first discovered in Perak and is named after Sultan Azlan Shah, the state’s sultan.
With a color palette of orange and brown, the 20 Ringgit note boasts Malaysia’s diverse wildlife, featuring the hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) and leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) turtles on the reverse.
The blue 50 Ringgit note showcases oil palm trees, microbiology technology, and the declaration of independence. Proclaimed by Tunku Abdul Rahman on August 31, 1957, the Malayan Declaration of Independence was the gateway to the establishment of the Federation of Malaya, putting an end to the British colonial rule.
The 100 Ringgit note, featuring shades of purple and brown, highlights Malaysia’s Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Borneo and Malaysia. It also displays the rock formations of Gunung Api Valley, a limestone mountain renowned for its karst formations called “the pinnacles”. The Malaysian Ringgit serves as a powerful reminder of Malaysia’s beautiful landscape and rich biodiversity, and a demonstration of its national slogan: Malaysia, truly Asia.
