The National Flag
The National Flag is Singapore's most visible symbol of statehood. The Flag reflects the ideals, beliefs and values that we stand for as a nation amidst our rich and diverse cultural make-up. It forms a crucial element of our national identity. As such, the National Flag is to be treated with dignity and honour.
Its Origin
The creation of a new National Flag was a vital task for Singapore’s newly elected Cabinet in 1959. Then Deputy Prime Minister Dr Toh Chin Chye was placed in charge of a committee to create a new flag to replace the British Union Jack, which had flown over the island for nearly 140 years from 1819 to 1959.
The National Flag was unveiled on 3 December 1959 at the installation of the first Malayan- born Yang di-Pertuan Negara (Head of State), Encik Yusof bin Ishak. The ceremony was held in the City Hall Chambers. The Flag, together with the National Anthem and the National Coat of Arms, was publicly unveiled for the first time at the City Hall steps. The Flag was later adopted officially as Singapore’s National Flag upon her independence in 1965.
Its Meaning
The National Flag consists of two equal horizontal sections, red above white. A white crescent moon occupies the upper left red section. Next to the moon are five white stars arranged in a circle.
Each feature of the Flag bears a unique symbolic meaning. Red stands for universal brotherhood and equality of man. White symbolises pervading and everlasting purity and virtue. The crescent moon represents a young nation on the ascendant, and the five stars depict Singapore's ideals of democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality.