Singapore Flag: Meaning and History

History of the flag

The Singapore flag dates back to 1959. It was in 1965 that Singapore emancipated itself from Malaysia and declared its independence.

The banner features an Islamic crescent as a diplomatic gesture towards the large Muslim countries around it.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

  • The five stars embody the country's ideals : democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality. For some, the crescent moon represents the birth of Singapore as an independent country.

  • Red illustrates the fraternity of the people.

  • White represents virtue and purity.