THE SINGAPORE FLAG
In 1959, a new state flag was created to represent Singapore shortly after it became a self-governing state under British rule. Developed by a committee led by then Deputy Prime Minister Toh Chin Chye, the flag was unveiled on 3 December 1959, the day when Singapore’s first Malayan-born Yang di-Pertuan Negara (Malay for “Head of State”) was inaugurated. The flag was subsequently adopted as the national flag when Singapore became an independent nation on 9 August 1965.
The national flag of Singapore comprises two equal horizontal sections – an upper red section and a lower white section. A white crescent moon occupies the upper left red section, with five white stars arranged in a circle beside it.
Each colour and symbol on the flag has a distinctive meaning and significance attached to it. The colour red symbolises universal brotherhood and the equality of man, while white represents pervading and everlasting purity and virtue. Together, the two colours signify Singapore’s goal to achieve brotherhood and equality through purity and virtue. The crescent moon represents a rising young nation, while the five stars depict Singapore’s ideals of democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality.
adapted from National Library Website