Merlion celebrates 50 years since Singapore Tourism Celebration Attract tourists to see the decorative lights – works of art
Merlion, symbol of Singapore On the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of this seal. Singapore Tourism Organizes Big Event Inviting tourists to sing Happy Birthday to famous symbols on September 15th.
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Many tourists may wonder how this sea lion originated. Merlion’s origins are not documented in writing. But there is a legend that tells about the origin of Prince Saeng Nila Utama from the City of Palembang (Indonesia) who discovered the old port of Temasek. He saw a lion-shaped monster after arriving at this island. Therefore, the city was renamed Singapura or Singapore today. which has its roots from the Sanskrit word “Sing” and “Pura” which means the city of Singha and has been called another name. “Merlin” comes from the words “Mer” which means sea and lew which means lion.
Later in 1964 the legendary creature with the head of a lion. having the body of a born fish as a logo for Singapore Tourism The design is inspired by the Fishing Village together with Lion City to commemorate the historic moment the island was discovered. Merlion Logo It was registered for commercial use on 20 July 1966 and has been in use for 33 years since then until 1997.
Merlion Sculpture Created in 1972 by a Singaporean craftsman named Lim Nang Seng, it was based on a sketch by artist Kwan Sai Kieng. The statue was built to face the sea in accordance with the principles of Feng Shui. Mr. Chang Lim, who is a sculptor Chosen to be the Merlion statue. Having won many awards in a competition organized by the Singapore Tourism Board.
Sculptor Lim carved a small sculpture of a sea lion.
Many Singaporeans did not know that Chang Lim did not create this Merlion by himself. But with the help of his eight children, the older children climbed the scaffolding. Help carve the Merlion’s eyes. little brother Then he carved fish scales and tail fins All Chang Lim’s children were delighted and proud to help their father do this work. and going to help at the construction site almost every day before going to school and after school
On September 15, 1972, former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew presided over the official installation and unveiling ceremony of the Merlion. at the mouth of the Singapore River with a Merlion facing east after feng shui it is believed to bring prosperity to the city This may be the reason why the Merlion Statue in Merlion Park has become a popular tourist attraction in Singapore which n known throughout the world.
1997 The Esplanade Bridge was built. To facilitate traffic from the city to the Marina area. As a result, the Merlion scene was hidden. Therefore, the Merlion location had to be relocated in 2002 by choosing 8 locations to be the new location. to fit in front of One Fullerton shopping centre, which is only 120 meters from the original point. Merlion must be located near the mouth of the Singapore River. Because this area is an important place in history. Because this is the area where Prince Saeng Nila Utama saw the animal he thought was a lion for the first time.
Late in the afternoon on February 28, 2009, there was a thunderstorm. Lightning struck the Merlion statue. Parts of the mane fell down. and forming a hole in the bottom It takes about 1 month to restore and repair and install a lightning protection system to make it safer.
The Merlion statue is Singapore’s most famous attraction. Anyone who comes to visit must not miss a visit to say hello. Later in 2018, Singapore Tourism launched the cartoon Merlion. by name “Nong Merly” to attract children and young people has been well received. Merly’s cuteness quickly captured the hearts of viewers. Merlion and his sister Merly continue to tell tales from the past.
Lighting up the Merlion
Mr. Keith Tan, Director of the Singapore Tourism Board He said, “Merlion has long been a symbol of Singapore’s motherland. which is considered one of the travel organizers That makes Singapore a more vibrant city. and it’s a hometown that every Singaporean is proud of After two tough years in the tourism business, it’s time to celebrate Merlion’s 50th birthday. It invites Singaporeans and tourists to come and celebrate their birthday together. “
While Singapore is preparing to receive foreign travelers. Merlion’s 50th Birthday Celebration So it’s like a celebration for a bright future. For the selfie traveler The Merlion Statue at Merlion Park near One Fullerton Shopping Center is illuminated until September 29 from 6 PM to midnight every day.
for art lovers can visit an art exhibition about Merlion at the National Gallery of Singapore in the event “Nothing is Forever: Rethinking Sculpture in Singapore”. You can sign up for Merly cookie making lessons with RedMan Baking Studio. https://www.nationalgallery.sg/content/art-all-around-you-discover-sculpture-anew-through-landmark-survey
