Singapore Flag - Flag of Singapore
Historical Background
The first recorded Singapore flag of the young nation of Singapore was the late 19th century flag for the Straits Settlements under the British colonial rule.
The flag has the British blue ensign on the upper left corner and a three gold crown which was divided by an inverted pall which is colored red. The British Settlement of Singapore has no flag but in 1911, the city was granted a coat of arms.
During World War II, Singapore was under Japanese occupation. As such, during the war, the Japanese flag was hoisted in the country.
After the war, Singapore was declared an independent British Crown Colony and had its own flag. The flag had the British blue ensign with a single crown. This flag was used from 1946 to 1959. Thereafter, Singapore became a self governing territory within the British Empire on June 3, 1959.
It was on December 3, 1959 when Singapore adopted its national flag, national anthem and coat of arms. The 1959 red and white flag with white crescent and stars is still the same flag used by Singapore today.
It was flown alongside the Union Jack. It was subsequently adopted as the country’s national flag when it gained independence from the British rule on August 9, 1965.
The Design
The former Deputy Prime Minister Toh Chin Chye headed the design committee for the national flag of Singapore in 1959. After two months of deliberation the design was finalized. The Singapore flag is a bi color and are arranged in to two equal horizontal parts with the red on top of the white.
A white crescent moon and a pentagon shaped five stars were placed on the upper left corner of the red section. This is in accordance with the Chinese population desire that the flag be analogous to the flag of the People’s Republic of China.
Meanwhile, it is the desire of the Muslims to have a crescent moon. As such, both symbols are now a part of the national flag.
Colors and Symbols
The color red is the country’s symbol for universal brotherhood, nationalistic ideals and equal opportunity for all. The white is the epitome of decency, integrity and honor. The white crescent is the symbol of this young nation which is further enlightened by the five pointed stars.
Correspondingly the five stars signify the ideals which inspire Singapore, namely: peace, progress, democracy, justice and equality.
Meaning and Value to the Citizens
The national flag of Singapore is highly respected. The Singaporean government has issue the Singapore Arms and Flag and National Anthem Act to regulate the use of the flag and the proper decorum which must be observed. Recently, the law has been lenient on the use of the flag during the national holidays as well as its usage in any Singaporean homes all throughout the year.
Map of Singapore
The bustling city state of Singapore, as displayed on a Singapore map, is located in Southeast Asia at the southern most part of the Malay Peninsula. The Strait of Johor is the boundary between Singapore and Malaysia on its northern part.
Meanwhile, the Singapore Strait separates it from Riau Island of Indonesia in the south. Singapore is also situated 137 km north of the equator.
Singapore Geography
The map of Singapore will tell you that it has 63 islands which include its mainland. Outlying islands like Pulau Tekong and Pulau Ubin are among the country’s source of natural resources like granite and have plentiful flora and fauna. Meanwhile the island of Sentosa has been developed as an island resort which continues to attract millions of visitors annually.
Jurong Island is one of the artificial islands being developed by Singapore through its reclamation projects. Completed in 2009 the island is home to many international companies relating to petroleum and oil refinery. The island also produces polycarbonate resins and polymers which are used for products like LCD TV panels and diapers among others. Entry to the island is controlled and limited since the 9-11 terrorist attacks. Necessary permits are needed for entry and taking pictures.
Additionally, as you can see on a Singapore map, Singapore has two man-made connections to its neighbors. The Johor-Singapore Causeway in the north connects the country to Malaysia and the Tuas Second Link in the western part to decongest traffic in the Johor connection.
Bukit Timah Hill is the country’s highest natural peak at 163.36 meters. It is located near the heart of the mainland. The 400 acre Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is the only remaining rain forest of Singapore and can be found on the slopes of the Bukit Timah Hill.
The highly developed city state of Singapore is the home of a progressive economy being one of the world’s leading financial centers. Its port is also one of the busiest in the world and it offers a spectacular view of the skyline of Singapore. Additionally, Singapore has been ranked as one of the least corrupt countries in the world.
The city of Singapore is a byproduct of careful and effective urban planning as is visible on a Singapore map. It contains area for commercial and financial enterprises. The Singapore River in the Central area is an important marker in the city. The progress of the city itself can be traced to the maritime activities conducted along its banks.
With its first-rate and admirable services and facilities, Singapore attracts millions of visitors annually. The country also promotes its food and festivals to attract tourists all year round.
Singapore prides itself with the cultural and religious harmony among its people. Among the ethnic groups in the country are Chinese, Malay and Indian. The country is still traditional although liberal ideas are also shaping its population consciousness. Foreigners also influence the culture of Singapore.
With a multicultural society, one will surely enjoy the food of Singapore. The series of food stalls like the Kopi Tiam is the best way to enjoy its flavorful cuisines. Aside from food, the country also strives to be the center for the performing arts and culture. The country hosts the Singapore Arts Festival which encourages local and international artists for visual arts, dance, music and theater to share their works, making Singapore a major cultural hub.
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