• The racial conflicts that took place in July 1964 motivated Singapore to set the pursuit of “harmony among ethnic and religious groups” as one of the most important principles of nation-building. In 1966, S. Rajaratnam, one of Singapore’s pioneering leaders, contributed significantly to the drafting of the National Pledge that embraced the vision of “one united people”. The Pledge was revised by Ministry
  officials and then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew before submission to the Cabinet for approval. The pledge became a symbol of Singaporeans’ national identity and spirit.
• The National Pledge can be recited in all four of Singapore’s official languages (English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil).
• The Singapore National Pledge in English is as follows: “We, the citizens of Singapore, pledge ourselves as one united people, regardless of race, language or religion, to build a democratic society based on justice and equality so as to achieve happiness, prosperity and progress for our nation.”
• Today, reciting the pledge has become an important part in the daily life of many Singapore citizens, especially students and National Servicemen.

3 December 1959 was the day the first President of the self-governing state of Singapore took office. On the same day, the state flag, state emblem and state anthem were unveiled. After Singapore became independent in 1965, these were elevated to become the national flag, national coat of arms and national anthem. Other national symbols, such as the national pledge, national flower and Merlion symbol, were introduced soon after. (Lianhe Zaobao, 2/12/2019)