Brunei Darussalam Country Report

Brunei is a stable, developed country in Southeast Asia. The nation is governed by an absolute "Malay Muslim Monarchy" with no official political or social opposition. There are no threats to the existing leadership, nor is there a credible risk of uncertainty over royal succession. Unrest and terrorism pose little threat in the country, partly due to an extensive welfare system that has minimized potential socio-economic grievances. Crime rates are similarly low, with the recent implementation of sharia law, an Islamic legal system that outlines severe corporal punishments, providing an even stronger deterrent to illicit activities. Some law provisions apply to non-Muslims as well. Brunei is generally safe from powerful earthquakes and strong storm systems. Adequate healthcare is available, although modern and major hospitals are limited to urban centers.

Brunei has a low risk of civil unrest due to stringent regulations, rare demonstrations, and a comprehensive welfare system. Trade union activity and collective bargaining are virtually non-existent, contributing to overall stability. Crime is generally low, with occasional non-violent incidents. The country implemented Sharia law gradually, starting in 2014, with travelers advised to adhere to local laws. Kidnapping and terrorism risks are minimal, although proximity to Southeast Asian terrorism threats is a concern. While Brunei faces a low risk of internal armed conflict, domestic unrest may arise from socioeconomic disparities and limited political freedoms. Security services are generally adequate, but human rights concerns may increase with Sharia law implementation. Piracy is not a major concern in the region.

There are no safety concerns over air travel.

Brunei has an extensive network of roads comparable to most western countries and they are well maintained.

The Muara Port is considered efficient.

Electricity supply, mobile network coverage and internet connections are reliable.

There is a growing threat of cybercrime.

The threat of powerful typhoons is negligible, although storm systems with low-to-moderate intensity affect the country during the two monsoon seasons October-March and June-September. Minor earthquakes occur across the country, but the threat that a large earthquake along the coast of Brunei will generate a tsunami is very low. The danger of man-made hazards is also low.

There are no major health-related concerns except for mosquito-borne diseases. Vaccines before travel are also required, for example, for yellow fever. Adequate and good-quality medical care and Western medicines are present, although they are highly limited to urban centers. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

Corruption in Brunei is low due to strict anti-corruption laws and the effective functioning of the Anti-Corruption Bureau, along with high salaries for public sector employees acting as deterrents. The country is an absolute monarchy, with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah holding significant power and multiple government roles. Political stability is expected to continue, with no immediate threats to leadership or concerns about royal succession. However, there are legal nuances, including absolute immunity for the Sultan and unequal application of the law, particularly in religious matters. Law enforcement is perceived as weak by some, with accusations of corruption and inefficiency. Brunei implemented Islamic sharia law in 2014, including severe corporal punishments, which apply to both Muslims and non-Muslims. Currently, there are no international sanctions against Brunei.