Based on very tangible data it explores the 'same old issues' of language contact and language conflict in new ways. It explores minority language situations through the lens of linguistic landscape research. Minority Languages in the Linguistic Landscape provides an innovative approach to the written displays of minority languages in public space. In addition, it plays a very interesting role as an impartial and neutral language, accepted and fostered by both Malay and non-Malay and by the government alike. English as the international language related to glamour and economic success seems to enjoy higher prestige than Malay, the language most closely related to nationhood and Malayness. As a matter of fact, in bottom-up, non-official units of analysis (private enterprises: shops, restaurants, etc.) the presence of English manages to outdo that of Malay. Even though Malay is the only official language in the country and this is firmly supported by the government, English has a strong presence in the linguistic landscape, as strong as the official language. What is immediately noticeable is a high level of diversity, with three languages in common use (Malay, English and, to a lesser extent, Chinese), written in three different scripts (Roman, Arabic and Chinese characters). The linguistic landscape of one of the main streets in the capital of Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan, has been analyzed. This article looks at the role and meaning of street signs in Brunei Darussalam with a focus on the use of English.
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