Brunei was not included in the 2008 index, though its well-known peace and harmony do not require any introduction.

Japan's Ambassador to Brunei, Hashimoto Itsuo, said since his arrival in Brunei, he has cherished his stay in this "peaceful" and "hearty" country.

Since the post-war era for more than six decades, he said the government and people of Japan have made tremendous efforts in the establishment of a "state of peace".

These efforts by Japan, the Japanese ambassador said were highly-regarded in a speech (delivered at Waseda University, Tokyo) by President Hu Jintao of the People's Republic of China during his state visit to Japan last month.

"Besides being a peaceful country, Japan has plenty of places of scenic beauty, cultural importance and so on.

"It has also produced various outstanding results in the academic field through many of its prestigious universities. I believe that Japan is an ideal destination for Bruneian friends, particularly promising youths, to visit and study abroad," he said.

Among the Asean member countries, the GPI ranks Thailand in the 118th spot, the Philippines - 113th, Indonesia - 68th, Laos - 51st, Malaysia - 38th, Vietnam - 37th and Singapore - 29th.