The Origin
The Lion Head is a distinctive and easily recognisable National Symbol of Singapore. Less formal than the other symbols such as the National Flag and the State Crest, the Lion Head symbol can be freely used by individuals, organisations and corporations to promote a sense of national identity.
This National Symbol was introduced in 1986 as the Government wanted an alternative symbol that people and organisations could use to express their loyalty and commitment to the nation. As the National Flag and the State Crest are governed by legal restrictions which restrict their use for commercial or non-governmental purposes, the then Ministry of Communications and Information embarked on a search for a symbol that people could readily identify with.
The Ministry invited local art schools and advertising agencies to produce a new symbol that best exemplifies the characteristics of the nation. Many designs were submitted using motifs such as HDB flats, palm trees and various lions. The winning entry was a lion head by a young designer named Mr Michael Lee, who offered his design as a gift to the nation.
The lion was chosen as it is a powerful and historic symbol of Singapore's status as the Lion City and symbolises three national values: courage, excellence and strength. Singapore's name is itself derived from 'Singa Pura' (which means "Lion City"). According to the Malay Annals, Sang Nila Utama, a prince from Palembang, gave this name to the island after he came ashore and saw a creature he believed to be a lion.
Meaning
The Lion Head symbolises courage, strength and excellence. It is in solid red against a white background - the colours of the National Flag. The mane has five partings that represent the same five ideals embodied in the five stars of the National Flag, namely democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality. The lion's tenacious mien symbolises the nation's single-minded resolve to face and overcome any challenges.
Guidelines on the Use of the Lion Head Symbol
The Lion Head symbol is recognised as a National Symbol under the National Symbols Act 2022, which came into effect on 1 August 2023.
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Individuals and organisation may use the Lion Head symbol for the purpose of identifying with Singapore, but it should not be represented as any official endorsement for products or services.
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The Lion Head symbol should be treated with dignity and respect.
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The official colours of the Lion Head symbol are (Pantone red 032, white or black). The symbol may also be depicted as an outline form, embossed or portrayed as a watermark.
- The Lion Head symbol should not be used in any company trademark.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Using the Lion Head Symbol
1. Who may use the Lion Head symbol?
Any Singaporean individual, organisation or company may use the Lion Head Symbol to identify with the country.
2. I am interested to use the Lion Head symbol. What are its guidelines of use?
As shared in Q1, the Lion Head symbol may be used by Singapore-based individuals, organisations or companies to express loyalty and pride towards Singapore. The Lion Head symbol must be treated with dignity and respect, and in accordance with law.
Although approval is not required, it is still the responsibility of the user to ensure that the use of the Lion Head symbol is in adherence with the guidelines below:
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The Lion Head symbol should be treated with dignity and respect.
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The Lion Head symbol should not be used in any way that is likely to create an impression that the State or the Government of Singapore is endorsing any good or service;
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The Lion Head symbol is not for exclusive use and should not be registered as or as part of any trademark.
For more information on the guidelines of use of the Lion Head Symbol, please refer above.
3. Are there any fees to pay for using the Lion Head symbol?
No. There are no license fees or charges involved.
4. I noticed that the Lion Head symbol's design has the word "Singapore" underneath it, but I have seen the symbol being used elsewhere without the words. Can I use the symbol without the word "Singapore"?
Yes, the Lion Head symbol may be used without the word "Singapore" underneath it, although it is recommended to do so.
5. What is the official colour of the Lion Head symbol?
The official colours of the Lion Head symbol are red (Pantone 032), white and black. It has also been featured in outline form, embossed or portrayed as a watermark.
6. Can I modify the Lion Head symbol (e.g. artistically render it) before using it?
The Lion Head symbol may be used artistically but should be portrayed respectfully and with dignity.
Others
1. Is the Lion Head symbol the same as the Merlion Symbol?
No, it is not. The Lion Head symbol is often mistakenly referred to as the Merlion symbol. Please refer to STB’s website for more information on the Merlion Symbol.
2. If I would like to use the Merlion Symbol, whom should I write to for permission?
The Merlion Symbol is managed by the Singapore Tourism Board. To obtain approval for the use of the Merlion Symbol, please contact the Singapore Tourism Board via STB_feedback@stb.gov.sg.