The Garuda, or eagle, is the immortal being and shows tolerance in a country having different dialects and religions.  Its sternness expresses the strength of the nation, while the shield stands for self-defence.

The shield has five related emblems on it called pancasilas, colored red and white like the Indonesian flag.  The five principles are the foundation of the nation.  It guides the decision and action of the people and the government.  The star represents oneness of God, the chain represents humanitarianism, while the banyan tree shows a democratic government, and the bull, national unity.  The twigs of rice and cotton are the symbols of social justice.  The feathers of the Garuda also have fixed numbers telling us the day, month and year of Indonesia's independence.  The Garuda is always gold in color to show prosperity.