Singapore Flag

The national flag of Singapore, known as the Singapore flag, is a distinctive bicolor of red over white. The upper red band and lower white band are of equal size, creating a simple yet bold foundation. In the upper hoist canton, a white crescent moon faces five five-pointed white stars arranged in a circle, set against the red field.

This design was created to represent the newly self-governing state and its multi-ethnic population. The flag's clean, symbolic elements make it highly recognizable and easy to reproduce. Its official proportions are 2:3, a common ratio that contributes to its balanced appearance.

The colors and symbols of the Singapore flag carry deep national significance. The red symbolizes universal brotherhood and equality, while the white represents pervading and everlasting purity and virtue. Together, they form the core values the nation aspires to uphold.

The crescent moon represents a young nation on the ascendant, full of hope and ideals. The five stars stand for the nation's core principles: democracy, peace, progress, justice, and equality. Their circular arrangement signifies the unity of these ideals.

The flag was first unveiled on 3 December 1959, the day Singapore's first Coat of Arms and State Anthem were introduced. This occurred when Singapore attained self-government from the United Kingdom. The flag was created by a committee led by then Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Toh Chin Chye, who sought a design to unite the diverse population.

It was officially adopted as the national flag upon Singapore's full independence on 9 August 1965. The flag's design has remained unchanged since its inception, becoming a powerful and enduring symbol of the sovereign republic.