What does the national anthem mean? (via Stomp)

Thank you for your enquiry. Please find the following information for your reference.

(taken from Singapore Infomap at http://www.sg)

THE NATIONAL ANTHEM

The national anthem, together with the national flag and the state crest, reflect Singapore's identity as a nation. The anthem echoes the enduring hope and spirit of Singaporeans to make progress. It rallies us together to succeed.

The Origin
The national anthem was written in the wake of nationalism during 1956-57. Its composer, the late Encik Zubir Said, had written it on the basis of two words, "Majulah Singapura" which means "Onward Singapore". It was launched on 3 Dec 1959 together with the national flag and the state crest, at the installation of the new head of state, the Yang di-Pertuan Negara. Upon Singapore's independence in 1965, "Majulah Singapura" was adopted as the republic's national anthem.

Its Meaning and Lyrics
The national anthem was originally written in Malay. The lyrics are provided as follows.

MAJULAH SINGAPURA
Mari kita rakyat Singapura
Sama-sama menuju bahagia
Cita-cita kita yang mulia
Berjaya Singapura
Marilah kita bersatu
Dengan semangat yang baru
Semua kita berseru
Majulah Singapura
Majulah Singapura

ONWARD SINGAPORE
(English Translation)
We, the people of Singapore
Together march towards happiness
Our noble aspiration
To make Singapore a success
Let us all unite
In a new spirit
Together we proclaim
Onward Singapore
Onward Singapore

[source: http://www.sg/explore/symbols_anthem.htm], last accessed 03 September 2007.

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