An atmosphere of fear is gripping Brunei’s tiny community of Christians.
bottom“Although my life feels heavy, 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.”
– Kayla*
*Name changed for security purposes
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’s a moratorium on the death penalty, converts can still face whipping and imprisonment for up to 30 years—and potentially worse. Closer to home, pressure can also come from family and community.
The broader implementation of Sharia affects Christians with authorities under the ruling Sultan seeking 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. Essentially, they are treated as secular entities and required to submit annual reports to the government, bringing their activities under greater scrutiny.
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.
– That all people in Brunei will be free to choose their own faith.
– For God to help young people continue to follow Jesus.
– Thank God for the churches that can publicly worship in Brunei. Ask that every type of church would be able to register freely.
Open Doors calls for prayer support from Christians worldwide for the believers, the local churches, the Sultan, and his government officials.
