During a Parliamentary session on Monday (Aug 19), Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad suggested that the flower, that’s allegedly named after British colonial figure Stamford Raffles, should be renamed to reflect Malaysia’s independence and identity.

Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad suggested that Rafflesia should be renamed to reflect Malaysia’s independence and identity
Image credit: Fauna & Flora For illustration purpose only

During his proposal, he argued that Raffles was “a man without morals or ethics,” as he was our colonizer, further questioning why such a beautiful flower should continue to carry his name.

A bold alternative: “Anwar”

To support his proposal, he even made a daring alternative. Wan Fayhsal floated the idea of renaming the Rafflesia after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, saying that it would work better than its current name and in line with Anwar’s call to view history beyond the colonial framework.

MP for Machang, Wan Ahmad Fayhsal, sparks debate in Parliament after proposing a name change for the Rafflesia flower
MP for Machang, Wan Ahmad Fayhsal, sparks debate in Parliament after proposing a name change for the Rafflesia flower.
Image credit: Screen grab from PARLIMEN MALAYSIA (YouTube)

“In conjunction with Malaysia’s 68th National Day, could the minister use his powers to rename Malaysia’s largest flower?”, he said, drawing attention in the Dewan Rakyat.

To no surprise, many netizens have picked up the suggestion, with some sharing their opinions. Here’s what some of them said:

"Don’t you have other problems? Even a flower’s name becomes an issue?"
“Don’t you have other problems? Even a flower’s name becomes an issue?”
Image credit: @luminews.my (Instagram)
"There are countless problems and things far more important to discuss. Quite embarrassing if you ask me."
“There are countless problems and things far more important to discuss. Quite embarrassing if you ask me.”
Image credit: @luminews.my (Instagram)
"There are so many other bigger issues to talk about, yet they’re discussing flower names, guys…"
“There are so many other bigger issues to talk about, yet they’re discussing flower names, guys…”
Image credit: @luminews.my (Instagram)

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