Brunei

What does persecution look like in Brunei?

Converts from Islam face considerable pressure as conversion is punishable by law and everything will be done to bring converts back to their original faith. Non-traditional Christian communities cannot be registered as churches, but must be registered as companies, societies or family centres. As such, they are treated as secular organisations and are required to submit their financial and operational reports to the government every year. The whole of society (Christians included) is affected by the continuing introduction of Sharia (Islamic law). 

Young people are particularly affected by the mandatory religious education of children. Under changes announced in October 2023, children as young as three years old now have religious education incorporated into their general studies (The Star Malaysia, 25 October 2023), strengthening the teachings of the majority religion.

Who is most vulnerable to persecution?

Converts from Islam face the most intense persecution and technically can be charged with the crime of apostasy under Sharia. 

Meet "Lina"

"If they see [my cross necklace], they’ll accuse me of spreading the gospel."

Lina (pseudonym), a young Christian from Brunei

What has changed this year?

Since Brunei fully implemented Sharia (Islamic law) in 2019, the world has watched to see if this would have consequences for minorities such as Christians. Fortunately, so far the situation has not become too much worse – but it obviously has not improved the situation for Christians in a country where it can be difficult to live out one's faith in Christ. The implementation of Sharia has made Christians more fearful and more insecure, and ongoing restrictions on any kind of evangelism make it hard to reach out to non-believers, especially young people. Violence against Christians remains rare in Brunei, as authorities rely more on control and surveillance. 

What does Open Doors do to help Christians in Brunei?

Open Doors raises prayer support for persecuted believers in Brunei.

How can you pray for Brunei?

• Pray for believers in Brunei who have limited access to Bibles. Pray they will be able to read and study God’s Word freely.
• Thank God that some churches are able to gather for worship, even though legally their situation is precarious. Pray they will be able to stay open and disciple Christians in Brunei.  
• Pray that the monarchy in Brunei will be open to the truth of Jesus.