5 MYR #330

Front

The Istana Negara (National Palace) in Kuala Lumpur, the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (paramount ruler of Malaysia). Built in 1928, it served as the official royal palace from 1957 to 2011. The building features Moorish-Islamic architectural elements with domes and arched entrances. The mousedeer (Tragulus) at upper left is Malaysia's national animal, symbolizing wit and wisdom in Malay folklore. Hibiscus flowers (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Malaysia's national flower) appear at lower right.

Back

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong (Supreme Head of State of Malaysia) wearing the Tengkolok Diraja (royal headgear with gold embroidered design and the Malaysian coat of arms). Malaysia is a constitutional elective monarchy, and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is elected from among the nine hereditary state rulers for a five-year term. The portrait represents the institution of the monarchy rather than a specific individual, as the position rotates among state rulers.

History

This note belongs to the fourth series of Malaysian ringgit notes issued by Bank Negara Malaysia from 1982–1984, replacing the third series. The series features the Istana Negara on multiple denominations and continued Malaysia's tradition of depicting the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the reverse as a symbol of national unity and constitutional monarchy. The series was gradually replaced by the fifth series beginning in 1986, and was fully withdrawn from circulation and demonetized by 1999. The fourth series marked a transitional period in Malaysian currency design, maintaining traditional architectural and monarchical themes while incorporating enhanced security features.