State flag description in new National Symbols Bill shows effort to be more gender-neutral

On Tuesday (Sept 13), Parliament passed the National Symbols Bill 2022.

When it comes into force, this Bill will unify the law on all national and presidential symbols, and allow for their use to be regulated more clearly and flexibly than under the present law.

During debates, various Members of Parliament recognised the importance of national symbols and the benefits that the new Bill will bring.

I would like to call attention to one additional matter which did not receive attention in Parliament.

According to the existing official description of the national flag, the red colour symbolises “universal brotherhood and equality of man”.

By contrast, according to the new Bill, red will symbolise “universal fellowship and equality”.

I applaud this effort to use more inclusive and gender-neutral language, which better reflects the values of the Singaporean state and the Singaporean people.

This is particularly significant given the importance of the national flag and other symbols in showcasing what Singapore stands for, both to our people and to the world.

I hope that the public will be educated of this subtle change and recognise its significance.

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