The national flag of Malaysia somewhat resembles the stars and stripes flag of the United States, although there is no connection between them. There are 14 horizontal red and white stripes representing the 13 member states and the federal government. The upper left-hand quadrant is a blue field bearing a yellow crescent and a 14 point star. The star, called the Federal Star, represents the unity between the states and the federal government. Yellow is the royal colour of Malay rulers.

The flag is flown prominently throughout Malaysia, not only on government buildings but on structures of all kinds. The most symbolic location is the gigantic flag pole flag in Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka Square where, every year, thousands of people gather to celebrate Malaysian independence on Merdeka Day (31 August). Each of Malaysia’s states also has an individual flag.