Brunei Darussalam: A Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures

Brunei Darussalam is situated on the northwestern edge of Borneo island and once controlled much of Borneo as well as southern Phillipines but its regional influence peaked by the end of 17th century. It subsequently entered a period of decline caused by internal fighting over royal succession, colonial expansion of European powers, and local piracy. In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate, but would later gain its independence in 1984. More on the fascinating history here.

The country benefits from its extensive petroleum and natural gas fields and this tax-free haven's citizens enjoy one of the highest (per capita) GDPs in the world. Scroll down to see the national flag of Brunei and its location as well as some useful links.

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Facts & Figures Tourist attractions

Brunei Flag

The national emblem is superimposed in red at the flag's centre and includes the following component:

Swallow-tailed flag, representing RoyaltyThe Royal umbrellaWinged column, symbolizing the protection of justice, tranquillity, prosperity and peaceTwo upraised hands, signifying the Government's pledge to promote welfare, peace and prosperityAn upturned crescent, symbol of Islam, the national religion of BruneiEmbodied within the crescent in yellow Arabic script is the nation's motto, which can be roughly translated: Always in Service by God's GuidanceA scroll beneath the crest with Arabic script reading "Brunei Darussalam" or "Brunei, the Abode of Peace"