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Brunei Darussalam
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Sharia law in Brunei is steadily marginalizing Christian faith and activity.
“Although my life feels so heavy at times, I know that God has a purpose. The vision I had when I was just ten years old still echoes in my heart, reminding me to hold to Jesus. That vision is what gives me strength and keeps me moving forward.”
What is persecution like in Brunei?
Since the wider implementation of Sharia (Islamic law) in 2019, affecting both Muslims and non-Muslims, an atmosphere of fear is increasingly gripping Brunei’s tiny community of Christians.
Apostasy is punishable under the law. While there is a moratorium on the death penalty, converts can still face whipping and imprisonment for up to 30 years – and the threat of worse. Closer to home, pressure can also come from families and communities.
The broader implementation of Sharia affects Christians in other ways, as the authorities under the ruling Sultan seek to exert greater control. Mandatory Islamic education starts at the age of three, making it even more challenging for parents and churches to tell children about Jesus. With no separation between state and Islam, Christian activities are increasingly marginalised, and activities such as evangelism are even criminalised. To add to the challenge, people are also rewarded for converting to Islam.
Meanwhile, non-traditional Christian communities, such as Pentecostals, cannot register as churches. Instead, they must operate as companies, societies or family centres. This means they are treated as secular entities and are required to submit annual reports to the government, bringing their activities under even sharper scrutiny.
What changed this year?
Little has changed in Brunei this year, though recent incidents bring a sobering reminder of the care Christians must take even in the mundane acts of everyday life. One believer was asked to resign from her job after praying over her food. Elsewhere, a student was accused of being disrespectful to Islam for sharing a fact during class. In a similar episode, a believer was accused of blasphemy following a social media post. Thankfully, neither accusation went far, but Christians are concerned that this might not always be the case.
Who is most vulnerable to persecution?
Converts are at the greatest risk of persecution from the authorities, their families and their communities. Traditional church communities, such as Catholics and Anglicans, experience some scrutiny. However, non-traditional groups, such as Pentecostals and Evangelicals, are most susceptible to opposition, particularly those more involved in outreach activities.
What does Open doors do to help
Open Doors calls for prayer support from Christians worldwide for the believers, the local churches, the Sultan and his government officials.
How can I be praying?
Converts from Islam can be charged with apostasy in Brunei, which is under Sharia (Islamic law). Pray that all people in Brunei will be free to choose their own faith.
Ask God to help young people continue to follow Jesus. Islamic education is part of the school curriculum, and there is always pressure on young followers of Christ.
Thank God for the churches that can publicly worship in Brunei. Ask that every type of church would be able to register freely.