The Merlion was created in 1964 by the Singapore Tourism Board but was officially inaugurated by their prime minister, Lee Kuan Yuw in 1972 only. The Merlion consists of the head of a lion with the body of fish. The original one overlooks the Singapore River with the business district (also known as the financial district) to its background. The Merlion has formed the symbol of Singapore since then and has featured in almost all reviews about Singapore. Merlion statues are found in four other locations in Singapore. A small statue or a key chain of the Merlion is a perfect souvenir for your loved ones from Singapore.