Adopted in 1959
| Capital | Singapore |
|---|---|
| Population | 6 036 860 inh. |
| Area | 728 km² |
| Population density | 8292.4 inh./km² |
| Local time | --:-- |
| Language(s) | Standard Chinese, English, Malay, Tamil |
| Political system | Unitary parliamentary republic |
| National motto | Majulah Singapura (Onward, Singapore) |
| National anthem | Majulah Singapura (Onward, Singapore) |
| Currency | Singapore dollar (SGD) |
| Land borders | Malaysia |
| Maritime borders | Singapore Strait, Strait of Malacca |
The flag: history and symbolism
Flag History
The flag of Singapore was adopted on 3 December 1959, when the British colony gained internal self-government. It was designed by a committee led by Deputy Prime Minister Toh Chin Chye.
Singapore joined Malaysia in 1963, then left it to become an independent republic on 9 August 1965. The 1959 flag was kept.
It consists of two horizontal stripes, red and white, with a white crescent moon and five white stars in the upper corner at the hoist.
Meaning of Colours & Emblems
The elements of the Singaporean flag have an official meaning:
- Red: universal brotherhood and the equality of man.
- White: pervading and everlasting purity and virtue.
- Crescent: a young nation on the ascendant.
- Five stars: the nation's ideals of democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality.
Anecdotes & Fun Facts
The crescent does not refer to Islam here: it was chosen to evoke a young nation, in a country where Chinese, Malay and Indian communities live side by side.
9 August, the national day, is marked by a large parade, during which a huge flag is flown across the sky, suspended from a helicopter.
The Singaporean flag resembles that of Indonesia, red and white, but stands apart with its crescent and stars.
Similar Flags Around the World
Sport and history
National teams
Olympic Games
Frequently asked questions
What is the capital of Singapore?
Singapore is the capital of Singapore.
What do the colours of the flag of Singapore mean?
The elements of the Singaporean flag have an official meaning: Red: universal brotherhood and the equality of man. White: pervading and everlasting purity and virtue. Crescent: a young nation on the ascendant. Five stars: the nation's ideals of democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality.
Which countries border Singapore?
Singapore shares land borders with: Malaysia.