The Merlion: Singapore's Mythic National Symbol

The Merlion (马狮, Mǎshī) is a mythical creature with a lion's head and a fish's body, perpetually spouting water from its mouth.

Symbolism

• Lion Head: Represents Singapura ("Lion City" in Sanskrit) — legend of Prince Sang Nila Utama (13th c.) sighting a lion (likely a tiger) upon landing.
• Fish Body: Honors Singapore's origin as Temasek ("Sea Town" in Javanese), a fishing village and maritime entrepôt.
• Water Spout: Life-giving flow, maritime trade, modernity.

Origins

• Designed 1964 by Fraser Brunner (Van Kleef Aquarium curator) for Singapore Tourism Board logo.
• Inspired by Malay Annals (Sejarah Melayu) account of Sang Nila Utama.
• Official symbol 1966; trademarked.

Iconic Statues

• Original (8.6m): Merlion Park, One Fullerton (spouts into Marina Bay).
• Cub (2m): Behind original.
• Sentosa (37m): Former giant (demolished 2019 for Sentosa Sensoryscape).
• Mount Faber, Tourism Court, STB HQ — smaller replicas.

The Merlion embodies Singapore's identity: a small nation with the courage of a lion and the adaptability of a fish, thriving on the sea.