Kolam is a folk art form that was originally designed to feed the insects and particularly ants in respect of their contribution in keeping Earth fertile. Placed in front of a house entrance, each household was given the responsibility to feed the insects.

As time passed it branched out to elaborate designs using intricate symbols that depicted a particular event or celebration. In Malaysia, Indians have been decorating the entrance of their homes, wedding halls and temples from the time early immigrants from India came to reside in Malaysia. Though the practice of feeding the insects daily gradually faded, you will still see the Kolam being placed for important occasions.

There are two distinctive styles, one is Kolam, used by the South Indians and the other is Rangoli, done by the North Indians.

This particular Kolam which is a combination of the above two is designed specially for this occasion, keeping the 1Malaysia theme in mind.

This Kolam breaks away from the conventional design to a more contemporary one. Though it is visualised to represent the current time and occasion, we have carefully maintained the originality of the Kolam. The colorful, decorative style and clear partitions which are the basic fundaments of Kolam design, is preserved to ascertain tradition.

This country is famous for its hills and mountains. The name "Malaysia" came from Malaya, originating from a tamil word "Mallai" which literally means hill. Three hills are shown in the Kolam, the Red representing the Chinese, the Green representing the Malays and the Orange in the centre representing the Indians. The Indian hill is placed in the centre to signify the status of the Indians and their role as a balance in this country.

There are nine figures just below the hills. They represent the nine sound chakras which create a harmonious biorhythmic balance which is much needed during this time of global uncertainty.

The tree trunk in the centre represents the firm foundation of our faith that is keeping this country in stability.

The whole tree is a symbolic representation of the 1Malaysia Tree that is planted on this land by our Prime Minister. The seed below signifies his idea and the basic foundation that is now spreading its roots and keeping the Tree of Unity in harmony.

Both the sun and the moon signify the compromise and tolerance that is keeping this Land of Hope together in solidarity.

The many ants that are red and black are representations of the citizens of this land. Their presence on the Kolam without any orderly manner is to signify the freedom that is experienced on this land.

The centre white and red strap are part of the colours of our national flag.

The little container and the flow of whitish milk into it, is to remind Malaysian Indians of their entry into the estates in the beginning of time.

Colored rice, spice and herbs are used to symbolize a nature- friendly environment. An aromatic ambience is further created with pandan leaves to appease the audience.

The little clay earthenware that is normally lit with oil wicks is filled with colored rice to show our concern over global warming.