The Royal Regalia Museum in Brunei is a treasure trove showcasing the Sultan's vast collection of gifts from foreign dignitaries. It's a fascinating glimpse into global diplomacy and cultural exchange, with ornate displays from China, Russia, and even a gilded chariot from Malaysia. Yet, among the dazzling artifacts, there's one peculiar item that always catches the eye: a silver bowl from the United States, its shape strikingly reminiscent of a bedpan. It serves as a humorous reminder that even the most well-intentioned gifts can be lost in translation.

Interestingly, despite the museum's extensive collection, there are no gifts on display from England. When I inquired about this, the museum guide offered a wry smile and a succinct reply: "Our independence." Her answer spoke volumes about Brunei's complex history as a former British protectorate. The absence of a physical gift from England serves as a poignant symbol of the nation's hard-won sovereignty, perhaps a more valuable offering than any material object.