Having a sense of belonging is one of many basic human needs and national identity refers to a person's sense of belonging to a country with its history, values ​​and traditions . Since gaining independence in 1957, the issue of Malaysia's national identity has been in the spotlight due to its strong social, political and economic implications. Being a multicultural country, the search for a national identity is not an easy feat as Malaysians are made up of different ethnicities such as Malays, Chinese, and Indians. Each ethnic group contributes its own unique culture and religion, thus making it difficult to form a Malay identity. Indeed, in September 2010, Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak announced the 1st Malaysia concept. This concept serves as a call to action for leaders and government bodies to place greater emphasis on national unity and ethnic tolerance. This shows that even today, Malaysia's national identity remains unstable. Architecture plays an important role in achieving national identity and this essay aims to discuss the significant events happening in the country's history that have helped shape and alter the Malay vernacular architecture as well as examine why national identity of Malaysia still remains unstable. Vernacular architecture in the 21st century has been minimized, given the practice of modern architects placing aesthetic quality above function, comfort or ecological benefits. Vernacular architecture is defined by the understanding that form follows function and there is a prevalent use of local materials that take into consideration how the intended user will use the structure. Vernacular......middle of paper......ecology and ethics in design and architectureJohn Hilley, Malaysia: Mahathirism, Hegemony and the New Opposition (London: Zed Books, 2001). Mahathir's role in initiating this search for Malay identity in architecture was further stated in an interview with Tay Kheng Soon, 29 July 2004. The Chief's House, Chen, Voon Fee “Architecture” The Encyclopaedia of Malaysia (Singapore : Archipelago Press, 1998) Yeang , Ken The Architecture of Malaysia (Amsterdam: The Pepin Press, 1992) Oakman “Young Asians in Our Homes: Students of the Colombo Plan and White Australia”p89Oakman, Daniel “Young Asians in Our homes: the students of the Colombo Plan and White Australia” Journal ofAustralian Studies | (1 January 2002) 72, pp. 89-98http://blogs.artinfo.com/objectlessons/2012/05/09/malaysia-looks-to-local-talents-and-vernacular-architecture-to-design-public -transit-system/