Singapore's National Icon- Emma

Do you think that the Merlion would make the best national icon of Singapore?

Yes, I think that the Merlion would make the best national icon of Singapore. Spouting water from its mouth, the Merlion statue stands tall at 8.6 metres and weighs 70 tonnes. The Merlion is a traditional creature that depicts a creature with a lion head and a body of a fish. The lion is a reference to a tale narrated in the Sejarah Melayu which describes how a prince,Sang Nila Utama, reportedly encountered a lion when he first stepped on the shores of Temasek giving him the idea of naming Singapura (lion city)

I believe that The Merlion best represents Singapore as it reflects our roots and history.  Its head represents Singapore’s original name, Singapura, or ‘lion city’ in Malay. I believe that the Merlion is the most suitable national icon of Singapore as it reflects our history and roots. When foreigners come to Singapore, they would want to see the majestic Merlion and would be curious as to what is behind the history of the Merlion. The body symbolises a fish tale of Singapore's humble beginnings as a fishing village when it was called Temasek, meaning 'sea town' in Old Javanese. Whenever us Singaporeans visit the Merlion, we would probably look back and realize how much we have progressed as a nation throughout thus years. It would definitely impact us and allow us to feel a sense of accomplishment. When many of us were younger, we were also often told about stories about Singapore's past and history all through the mythical creature. It often led us feeling excited and forever etched in our minds. It is really meaningful, teaching us about Singapore's history and making us understand the harships our older generations sacrificed to make what Singapore is what it is today. Through all these, we would appreciate all their hardships and work hard to preserve their legacy and continue developing Singapore to make them proud. I believe that the Merlion's Tale is something that we should forever pass down to the future generations.

In Singapore, it has become a marketing icon used as a mascot and national personification of Singapore. Merlions do not feature in any local folklore or myths of Singapore, and was only used in Singapore initially as the logo for the tourism board.  Furthermore, it is very unique and it allows us to have a sense of identity. Being a special combination of a mythical creature the Merlion is also one of the most viewed tourist attractions as compared to the many other atrractions. Therefore through all my points, I think that the Merlion is the best national icon to represent Singapore.