“Petir Pictorial” is a party organ of the People's Action Party (PAP) which communicates its latest activities and policies to readers. This issue, released on Labour Day, features a cover photo of a mass rally at the Padang commemorating the swearing-in of the first Yang di-Pertuan Negara Yusof Ishak, as well as the launch of the first National Loyalty Week on December 3, 1959. The publication introduces and explains the design of Singapore's first three national symbols — the coat of arms, flag and anthem, capturing Singapore's nascent nation building journey as a self-governing state. It also takes stock of significant diplomatic, socioeconomic and cultural initiatives led by the PAP in the year following its victory in the General Elections to form the first fully elected government in June 1959. These included leading a goodwill mission to Indonesia to improve trade and cultural relations, the launch of new amenities and infrastructure, as well as the development of manufacturing industries.
