Lion Symbol

The island's name "Singapura" (or Lion City) was derived from a legend in the 13th century Malay Annals. In the records, a Palembang prince, while shipwrecked on an island, saw a creature he took to be a lion. He then named the island "Singa Pura", after the creature.

The Singapore lion head was introduced in 1986 as an alternative national symbol that can be used freely to promote Singapore's identity. The lion head symbolises courage, strength and excellence. It is in the colours of the national flag - red and white. The five partings of the mane represents the nation's ideals of democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality. The lion's tenacious bearing signifies the resolve to face and overcome all challenges.