Do you think the Merlion would make the best national icon to represent Singapore?

A national icon is important as it gives us a sense of belonging whenever we see it. Examples of the national icons are the Staue Of Liberty and Merlion. A national icon represents a country and relates to it. For example, whenever anyone mentions the 'merlion', many would interpret it is Singapore, since it is well Knowned as the national icon of Singapore. This clearly shows that the merlion is a significant structure of Singapore and it is very important to Singapore.

The body of the merlion symbolises Singapore's humble beginnings as a fishing village when it was called Temasek, meaning 'sea town' in Old Javanese. Its head represents Singapore’s original name, Singapura, or ‘lion city’ in Malay. Today, you can glimpse this legend at Merlion Park. Spouting water from its mouth, the Merlion statue stands tall at 8.6 metres and weighs 70 tonnes.

This icon is a ‘must-see’ for tourists visiting Singapore, similar to other significant landmarks around the world.

Symbolic Meaning
The lion is significant as Singapore's name is derived from the old Sanskrit term simha or singha, meaning "lion". The symbol in the icon represents courage, strength and excellence. It is in solid red against a white background, a reflection of the colours of the national flag. 

Its mane's five partings represents the five ideals -- democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality. These are the same ideals as embodied in the five stars of the national flag. The lion's tenacious mien symbolises the nation's single-minded resolve to face any challenges and overcome any obstacles.

The lion head was chosen as a logo, as it best captures, the characteristics of Singapore's reputation as a Lion City. It was introduced in 1986 as Singapore's alternative national icon.