Singapore Merlion Diy Batik Painting Kit set

The neighboring country’s iconic symbol — the “lion’s head and mermaid’s tail” — is the famous Merlion of Singapore.

Behind it is a story that combines legend and history.

Why the Lion’s Head?

According to legend, a Sumatran prince named Sang Nila Utama arrived on the island long ago and saw a mysterious animal that he believed was a lion. He then named the island “Singapura”:

• “Singa” = Lion

• “Pura” = City

So Singapore literally means “Lion City.”

Interestingly, historians believe there were probably no real lions in Singapore at that time, but the legend became an important part of the nation’s identity.

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Why the Fish Tail?

Singapore began as a small fishing village known as “Temasek,” an old name linked to the sea.

The fish tail represents:

• Singapore’s origins as a fishing village

• Its close connection to the sea

• Its history as a trading port

So the Merlion combines:

• Lion head → the legend of the Lion City

• Fish tail → Singapore’s maritime roots

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Who Created the Merlion?

The Merlion symbol was designed in 1964 for the Singapore Tourism Board (then the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board) and later became one of Singapore’s most recognizable national icons.

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Where Can You See It Today?

The most famous statue is located at Merlion Park, facing Marina Bay and “spouting” water into the bay. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in Singapore.

Today, when people think of Singapore, they often think of:

• The Merlion

• Marina Bay

• Gardens by the Bay

• The modern “Garden City” image

It has become a powerful symbol of Singapore’s identity and tourism.