The word bunga in Malay means
"flower", whilst raya in Malay means
"big". The hibiscus is literally known as
the "big flower" in Malay. The red of the
petals symbolizes the courage, life, and
rapid growth of the Malaysian, and the
five petals represent the five Rukun
Negara of Malaysia. The flower can be
found imprinted on the notes and coins
of the Malaysian ringgit.
Uses
Hibiscus flower preparations are used
for hair care. The flowers themselves
are edible and are used in salads in the
Pacific Islands. The flowers are used to
shine shoes in parts of India, as well as
for the worship of Devi. In Indonesia ,
these flowers are called "kembang
sepatu", which literally means "flower of
shoes".