The national anthem of Palau is called: « Belau rekid ».
Continent: Oceania
In the same continent: 🇦🇺 Australia, 🇫🇯 Fiji, 🇰🇮 Kiribati 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands, 🇫🇲 Micronesia (Federated States of), 🇳🇷 Nauru, 🇳🇿 New Zealand, 🇵🇬 Papua New Guinea, 🇼🇸 Samoa, 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands, 🇹🇴 Tonga, 🇹🇻 Tuvalu, 🇻🇺 Vanuatu
History of « Belau rekid »
« Belau rekid » (Our Palau) is the national anthem of Palau. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1980: The lyrics and music for « Belau rekid » were composed by Ymesei O. Ezekiel, a Palauan musician and composer.
- 1981: The anthem was officially adopted by the Palauan government in 1981, coinciding with the establishment of the Republic of Palau’s constitution.
Anecdotes
- Constitutional Adoption: « Belau rekid » was adopted as the national anthem in 1981, the same year Palau’s constitution came into effect. This marked a significant step towards full sovereignty, which was later achieved in 1994.
- Composer’s Legacy: Ymesei O. Ezekiel, the composer of the anthem, is celebrated for his contributions to the music and culture of Palau. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Palauan people.
- Cultural Significance: « Belau rekid » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Palauan people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Palauans.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Palauan
Belau loba klisiich er a kelulul,
el dimla ngarngii ra rechuodelmei.
Mengemlo a ch'rechar me kmo er a chimol,
el ngar cheungel a rirch lomke sang.
Bo dole ketek a kerruul er a beluu,
el mo merek a klungiolam.
Lomcheliu a rengrdel ma klebkellel,
mo merek a chimol a ch'rechar.
Belau rekid, a klisicham me a rengud,
el dimla ngarngii ra rechuodelmei.
Mengemlo a ch'rechar me kmo er a chimol,
el ngar cheungel a rirch lomke sang.Translated in English
Our Palau is a place of peace,
Where we are free and happy.
Our hearts are filled with joy,
As we see our land prosper.
We are proud of our heritage,
And we strive to protect it.
Our love for our country is strong,
And we will defend it with all our might.
Our Palau, our homeland,
Where we are free and happy.
Our hearts are filled with joy,
As we see our land prosper.Sources: