lambang

Lambang is a term used in Indonesian and Malay to refer to a symbol, emblem, sign, or mark that represents an idea, organization, or entity. It covers items such as heraldic devices, national emblems, institutional logos, and cultural or religious symbols. In everyday language, lambang denotes anything that conveys identity or authority.

The word originates in Malay and Indonesian usage, where it broadly means sign or emblem. While closely related to terms such as simbol and logo, lambang often carries connotations of official or symbolic representation, rather than generic graphic design.

Common applications include national emblems (lambang negara), coats of arms for cities or families, logos for companies and universities, and religious or cultural symbols used in ceremonies and insignia. National laws may regulate the adoption, design, and use of a lambang to protect identity and prevent misuse.

Design typically combines motifs with symbolic meanings and color schemes that convey history, values, or functions. Official lambang are usually standardized to maintain consistency across government documents, buildings, and uniforms; private uses are governed by copyright or trademark rules.

Examples include Indonesia's Garuda Pancasila, the national emblem, and various state or provincial emblems around the world. The concept of a lambang thus encompasses both formal insignia and everyday symbols that carry collective meaning.