Is Brunei Safe For Expats?

Brunei is a small, tropical country in Southeast Asia with a population of around 450,000. It is considered a safe destination for expats, with a low crime rate and good security. The country has a booming economy, thanks to its thriving oil and gas industries, and offers lucrative employment packages and tax-free income, attracting a large expat community. While Brunei is generally safe, it is important to follow local laws and traditions, especially given the country's strict Islamic norms. Expats should be aware of cultural differences and dress modestly, refraining from public displays of affection. Brunei has a good healthcare system, and expats can expect low medical costs. However, for specialised treatment, travel to nearby Singapore may be necessary. Overall, Brunei offers a high standard of living and a comfortable environment for expats, with the added perks of clean air, cheap petrol, and beautiful natural attractions.

Crime and safety

Brunei is generally a safe destination for expats, with violent crime being rare. However, it is important to take precautions and be aware of potential risks. Most crimes that occur in Brunei are non-violent crimes of opportunity, such as residential burglaries, vehicle break-ins, and theft. Crime rates peak in July and December when schools are out of session and during the holiday season. To avoid becoming a victim of opportunistic crime, it is recommended to practice good security measures such as securing valuables, avoiding secluded locations, and properly securing residences and vehicles. It is also advised to avoid travelling alone late at night.

It is important to respect the local laws and traditions in Brunei, especially those related to its Islamic culture. The sale and consumption of alcohol and drugs are strictly regulated, and extramarital relations and public displays of affection between individuals of different religions may be considered a crime. It is also illegal to possess or distribute pornographic material, firearms, and weapons. The Royal Brunei Police Force is professional and courteous, and most officers speak English.

When it comes to road safety, Brunei has well-maintained roads comparable to those in western countries. However, drivers can be unpredictable, so it is important to drive cautiously. Traffic moves on the left side of the road, and foreign driver's licenses are permitted for up to 90 days. For longer stays, an endorsement to a Brunei driver's license is required. The Royal Brunei Police Force routinely sets up checkpoints and traffic stops, particularly at night, for license and registration checks, sobriety assessments, and contraband searches.

In terms of healthcare, Brunei has one of the top public healthcare systems in the world. Locals can access public medical care at no cost, while expats are usually charged low rates. There are also several private hospitals that are of high standard, but these are mostly located in major urban areas. Overall, Brunei offers a safe and secure environment for expats, but it is always important to stay vigilant and follow local laws and cultural norms.

Healthcare

Brunei has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, with sufficient facilities and hospitals to handle most emergencies. The Ministry of Health Brunei (MOHB) oversees four government hospitals and 60 health centres and hospitals in the country. The healthcare system is divided into two major categories: the Directorate of Medical Services, which covers areas such as nursing, hospital, laboratory, dental, renal, and pharmaceutical services; and the Directorate of Health Services, which monitors environmental health, community health, and scientific devices.

Public healthcare services in Brunei are either free or highly subsidised by the government. Locals can access public medical care for free, while expats are charged affordable rates. Expats can use the public healthcare system if they are legal residents and have registered with the Ministry of Health and obtained a medical card. However, many expats choose to buy private medical insurance for additional coverage and access to private hospitals.

For expats, it is recommended to obtain international health insurance before travelling to Brunei, ensuring that it covers total medical expenses, medical evacuation, and the cost of bringing your family home in case of injury or illness.

The largest city and capital of Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan, has at least 10 health clinics and about 16 health centres. The largest hospital in Brunei is Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital, which has 538 beds. Other prominent medical centres include Jerudong Medial Centre and Gleneagles JPMC Sdn Bhd.

In the event that a patient cannot be treated in Brunei, measures are taken to send the patient overseas, mainly to Malaysia and Singapore. Between 2011 and 2012, the government spent over 12 million Brunei Dollars on the treatment of Bruneian citizens in these countries.

In rural areas, the Flying Medical Services division provides healthcare by flying patients to the closest medical facility by helicopter.

In an emergency, the number for an ambulance is 991. Other emergency numbers include Fire and Rescue (995) and Search and Rescue (998).

Most doctors, nurses, and pharmacists in Brunei can converse in English, so language should not be a barrier to healthcare access.

Culture shock and local customs

Brunei has a population of around 440,000 to 450,000 people, with a large expat contingent making up around 40% of the population. As a small, tropical country, it offers a high standard of living, with good security, clean air, and a booming economy thanks to its thriving oil and gas industries.

As a strictly Islamic country, Brunei may present some culture shock to newcomers. Expats should be mindful of local customs and dress modestly, refraining from physical contact between members of the opposite sex in public. The official language, Malay, may also pose a challenge to some, although English and some Chinese dialects are commonly used in business.

The Bruneian culture is deeply rooted in its history, with influences from animism, Hinduism, and Islam, as well as Western ideologies. The country has a rich cultural heritage that is well-preserved, with arts and crafts such as boat-making, silver-smithing, and cloth weaving. The people of Brunei are generally friendly and helpful, and they appreciate it when foreigners make an effort to conform to their cultural norms.

Social contact with Bruneians often occurs through work and school. Open house visiting is a custom that expats can enjoy, where they can visit Muslim families during Hari Raya (Eid celebrations) and Chinese families during Chinese New Year. Traditional Malay weddings are also an important part of Bruneian culture, and guests are expected to respect the religion, culture, traditions, and political system.

Brunei has a good public healthcare system, and expats usually pay low rates for medical care. There are also private hospitals of high standards, mostly located in major urban areas. The cost of living in Brunei is relatively low, especially when compared to Western Europe and North America. Food and travel are particularly affordable.

In terms of entertainment, Brunei offers local markets, food stalls, hotels, sailing, and walking and cycling tracks. There is little Western culture available, especially in the performing arts, but expats can explore local and regional varieties. Satellite TV provides a mix of Western and Asian offerings, and there are some cinemas showing both types of movies.

Transport

Brunei has an extensive network of roads that are well-maintained and comparable to those in most Western countries. Traffic moves on the left side of the road, and speeding, running red lights, and distracted driving are common traffic infractions. It is advised to take extra caution when approaching traffic signals. The Royal Brunei Police Force routinely sets up checkpoints and traffic stops, particularly at night, for license and registration checks, sobriety assessments, and contraband searches. If you are stopped by the police, you will need to show your identification card, vehicle registration, and insurance card.

If you plan to drive in Brunei, you can use a valid foreign driver's license for up to 90 days. After that, you will need to obtain a Bruneian driver's license from any Land Transport Department office.

Public transportation in Brunei is limited, with only six bus routes servicing the Bandar Seri Begawan area. Buses operate from 6 am to 8 pm but are infrequent. Bus fares start from B$1.00. Taxis are available at the airport, hotels, shopping centres, and the central bus station in Bandar Seri Begawan. It is recommended to use licensed, metered taxis or car services provided by hotels. Car services through ridesharing apps have gained popularity for their convenience and fare transparency.

Water taxis are the most common form of transport to and from Kampong Ayer, with fares that can be negotiated.

If you intend to rent a car, you can get a self-drive rental or chauffeur-driven car from major hotels and the airport. It is recommended to make arrangements before your arrival.

When driving in Brunei, it is important to always obey traffic rules and be cautious. Road accidents are common due to uneven road surfaces and drivers who do not always follow traffic rules, such as stopping at red lights or pedestrian crossings. Additionally, it is common for drivers to not use seatbelts or child car seats and to speed. There may also be animals such as monitor lizards, snakes, and monkeys on the roads.

If you are involved in a road accident, do not leave the scene or move your vehicle until the police arrive.

Alcohol and drugs

Brunei has strict laws when it comes to alcohol and drugs. Alcohol cannot be purchased legally in Brunei, and its import is strictly regulated. Non-Muslims may import a limited amount of alcohol for personal consumption whenever they enter the country. The allowance is two litres of spirits or wine and 12 cans of beer (330ml each). However, it is illegal to possess more than this designated allowance or to sell alcohol to others.

The illegal possession, use, distribution, and sale of drugs carry severe penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty. Both medical and recreational use of marijuana is illegal in Brunei. Drug use and possession may carry harsh punishments.

Frequently asked questions