Brunei’s national flag has a yellow field crossed diagonally by white and black bands, with the red national crest placed over them at the centre.

What does the Brunei flag look like?

Two diagonal stripes run from the upper hoist toward the lower fly: a wider white band above a narrower black band. The elaborate red crest contains a crescent, parasol, wings, hands and Arabic inscriptions.

What do the colors represent?

Yellow is the traditional royal color of the Sultan of Brunei. The white and black bands historically represented the country’s two principal ministers. The crest expresses monarchy, Islam and the protection of the state.

History of the flag

The yellow flag with black and white stripes dates from the early twentieth century. Brunei’s national crest was added in 1959 when a new constitution was introduced. The design was retained at full independence in 1984.

Brunei flag facts

• Main field: yellow
• Diagonal bands: white and black
• Crest added: 1959
• Independence: 1984