Every year on August 9th, Singapore celebrates its National Day (Hari Kebangsaan) with great enthusiasm. This commemoration marks the historic moment when Singapore separated from the Malaysian Federation in 1965.
The highlight of the celebration is the spectacular National Day Parade, where citizens gather to witness mesmerizing parades, performances, and fireworks. This event also serves as a unifying moment for the nation, showcasing the patriotism of the Singaporean people.
Origin of Singapore's Name
Singapore, situated at the crossroads of cultures and nations, derives its name from the Sanskrit words “Simha” (lion) and “Pura” (city). Legend has it that a prince from Palembang saw a lion-like creature while hunting and named the place Singapura, or the Lion City.
Independence of Singapore
In the 19th century, Singapore's strategic location as a trading hub attracted the interest of the British. Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles established the city as a major trading center, attracting immigrants from China, India, and the Malay Archipelago. While this diversity created a multicultural society, it also led to racial tensions.
During World War II, Japan defeated the British and took control of Singapore in 1942. After the war ended in 1945, the British regained control of the island, but the people's faith in colonialism had diminished. The hardships of the war and the initial defeat of the British fueled a sense of nationalism and a push for self-rule.
This growing nationalism brought forth leaders such as Lee Kuan Yew and the People's Action Party (PAP), who led Singapore to independence in August 1963. A month after independence, Singapore joined the Malaysian Federation through the 1962 Merger Referendum.
However, ethnic tensions and economic disagreements led to a separation, and on August 9, 1965, Singapore officially broke away from Malaysia, with Lee Kuan Yew as Prime Minister and Yusof bin Ishak as its first President.
Multicultural Identity
Singapore’s multicultural identity is evident in its landmarks, languages, and culture. The official languages—English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil—reflect its cultural diversity.
Singapore's flag, with its red and white colors, symbolizes brotherhood, equality, purity, and virtue. The crescent moon on the flag signifies the young nation’s aspirations to grow, while the five stars represent the country’s ideals of democracy, peace, justice, progress, and equality.
National Day Celebrations
Singapore's Independence Day is also a time to reflect on the nation’s economic progress and to set national priorities and plans. The celebration inspires a spirit of unity among its citizens.
National Day festivities in Singapore are marked by various events that highlight the nation’s unity, heritage, and progress. The entire city is adorned with flags, accompanied by patriotic songs, and filled with numerous events that culminate in the National Day Parade.
