Traveling Alone In Brunei: Is It Safe?

Brunei is considered to be a safe destination for tourists in Southeast Asia, with very low crime rates. However, there are some reported cases of violent theft, so it is recommended to avoid walking alone in dark and sparsely populated areas. While there is no history of terrorism in the country, attacks cannot be ruled out, and tourists should avoid crowded areas. Brunei has strict laws and penalties, including the death penalty, for various offenses such as drug possession, same-sex sexual activity, and criticism of the royal family. Women travelers, in particular, are advised to take extra precautions when traveling alone. The weather in Brunei can be unpredictable, with heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes occurring throughout the year, and saltwater crocodiles pose a danger along the rivers and beaches. Overall, while Brunei is considered safe, travelers should exercise normal precautions, stay vigilant, and follow local laws and customs.

Crime and safety

Brunei is considered to be the safest destination for tourists in Southeast Asia, with very low crime rates. However, it is still recommended to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

• Petty crimes, such as theft and burglary, do occur, so it is important to keep your valuables secure and be vigilant of your surroundings. Avoid carrying valuables with you, and do not leave possessions in unattended vehicles.
• Violent thefts have been reported in recent years, so it is advisable to avoid walking alone in dark and sparsely populated areas.
• While there is no history of terrorism in Brunei, attacks cannot be ruled out. Stay informed about local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
• There is a high threat of terrorist attacks globally, including against UK and US interests and nationals.
• Brunei has strict religious laws that must be respected. Islam is the official religion, and during the holy month of Ramadan, it is against the law to be seen eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours. Dress modestly and respect local traditions, customs, and laws.
• Adultery and closeness in private between an unmarried man and woman is illegal if one person is a Muslim.
• Possession of pornographic material is illegal.
• Brunei has strict laws against the possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives, including fireworks and firecrackers.
• Drug offences carry severe penalties, including the death penalty in some cases.
• Alcohol and tobacco sales are illegal in Brunei. Non-Muslims over 17 may import a limited amount of alcohol for personal consumption in private.
• Be cautious when driving in Brunei. Driving standards are different from those in the UK or US, and road accidents are common.
• Saltwater crocodiles are a danger in Brunei, especially around riverbanks and beaches.
• There are venomous snakes in Brunei, so be cautious when outdoors.
• Hiking alone in the forest is not recommended. Use recognised guides, stay on marked trails, and carry essential items such as food, water, a whistle, and a torch.
• There is a risk of insect-borne and waterborne diseases, so ensure your accommodation is insect-proof and use insect repellent.
• HIV/AIDS is a risk, so take precautions if engaging in high-risk activities.
• Natural disasters such as heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes are common. Weather conditions can change quickly, so be prepared and follow local authority advice.

Transport

Brunei has a well-maintained road infrastructure and a well-regulated public transportation system. The public transportation system in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city of Brunei, is considered safe, with buses and taxis being the primary means of transportation. However, services can be limited outside of the city or during non-peak hours. It is always recommended to be cautious of your belongings and aware of your surroundings when using public transportation.

Buses operate between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. but are infrequent. You can usually find metered taxis at hotels, shopping centres, and the airport. Your hotel can help you arrange a taxi or provide a taxi driver's contact information. Some taxi drivers will negotiate a fare.

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

If you plan to drive in Brunei, be aware that driving standards differ from those in the UK. It is common for vehicles to not stop at red lights or pedestrian crossings, and for drivers and passengers to not use seat belts or child car seats. Road surfaces can be uneven, and accidents are common. Additionally, animals such as monitor lizards, snakes, and monkeys may be on the roads. If you are involved in a road accident, do not leave the scene or move your vehicle until the police arrive.

You can rent a self-drive car or hire a chauffeur-driven car from major hotels and the airport, but you should make these arrangements before you arrive. If your vehicle is not registered in Brunei, you can only buy motor fuel at 14 designated filling stations, with a maximum purchase of 250 litres. Petrol stations typically only sell premium "V-Power" fuel to foreign cars, and payment is usually in cash.

When driving to Malaysia with a Brunei-registered car, foreign-registered vehicles can only purchase premium RON97 fuel (not the subsidised RON95 fuel), and this type of fuel is not available at all petrol stations. Make sure to fill up before leaving a city.

Local laws and customs

Brunei is an Islamic country with a legal system based partly on Sharia Law, which applies to all people in Brunei, including visitors. The country has a low incidence of serious crimes, but the punishment for most criminal activity is fairly extreme.

The sale and consumption of alcohol is banned in Brunei. However, non-Muslims over the age of 17 can import a limited amount of alcohol (two bottles of liquor or 12 cans of beer per entry) for personal consumption in private. Some hotels and restaurants may serve alcohol illegally, using euphemisms like 'special tea'.

Smoking is banned in specific public places, including shopping and eating areas, bus stops, stations, car parks, and near buildings.

During the holy month of Ramadan, it is illegal to eat, drink, or smoke in public during fasting hours. It is also forbidden for Muslims. Non-Muslims are advised to avoid these activities in public to avoid causing offence.

It is an offence to photograph prohibited places, including government and military infrastructure, security force areas, and communications and civil infrastructure.

Brunei has very strict laws against the possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives, including fireworks and firecrackers. It is also illegal to possess or distribute pornographic material.

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Brunei and can be punished by death, whipping, imprisonment, or fines. The gender expression of trans people is also criminalised.

There are severe penalties for drug offences, including the death penalty in some cases. Other crimes, such as robbery and visa offences, are punished by caning and lengthy prison sentences.

Adultery and close proximity in private between an unmarried man and woman is illegal if one party is a Muslim. Unmarried couples, even those in long-term relationships, are not allowed to share a hotel room.

Criticism of the Bruneian Royal Family is highly offensive and can result in serious penalties.

It is important to dress modestly when visiting Brunei, especially when visiting religious buildings. While it is acceptable to wear shorts outside and in commercial premises, men and women may be refused entry to government and public buildings, such as health centres, if wearing shorts.

Health and insurance

Brunei has a number of public hospitals and clinics, and the quality of medical facilities in the country's private hospitals is high. However, for certain complicated or elective procedures, the best medical care in the region is obtained in Singapore or Bangkok.

U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas, and most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. It is also strongly recommended that you take out supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

If you are taking prescription medication, check with the Embassy of Brunei to ensure that your medication is legal in the country. Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with a copy of your doctor's prescription.

Be aware that marijuana for medical use, even with a prescription, is not legal in Brunei.

Make sure you are up-to-date with all your vaccinations before travelling to Brunei. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information.

Insect-borne diseases, such as Japanese encephalitis, occur in Brunei. To protect yourself, make sure your accommodation is insect-proof, use insect repellent, and wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing.

HIV/AIDS is a risk in Brunei, so take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the risk of infection.

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases, such as hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) and tuberculosis, are common. Avoid raw and undercooked foods, including salads.

Local authorities may issue Red Tide warnings when red algae reach dangerous levels in coastal waters. If a warning is issued, avoid swimming in certain areas and eating certain types of seafood.

Brunei experiences heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes throughout the year. Weather conditions can change quickly and leave you stranded or injured, especially at sea or in a remote area. If you plan to go sailing, hiking, or to be in a remote area, be prepared and take all the necessary precautions recommended by qualified personnel and local authorities.

Crocodiles are common in Brunei, and crocodile attacks have occurred along the rivers. Use caution when around water sources and follow the advice of local authorities.

There are venomous snakes in Brunei. If you encounter a snake, keep your distance and wait for it to move away. If you find a snake indoors or in a confined space, call the fire service ('bomba') on 995.

Stray dogs are common in Brunei. Do not approach or touch dogs, and be mindful of them when walking or exercising. Although there have been no official rabies cases in Brunei recently, cases have been reported in Malaysia close to the border. If an animal scratches or bites you, see a doctor immediately.

If you plan to drive in Brunei, be aware that driving standards are different from those in the UK and the U.S. It is common for drivers to drive through red lights, exceed the speed limit, and drive without a licence or insurance. In addition, road surfaces are uneven and accidents are common. Animals such as monitor lizards, snakes and monkeys may also be on the roads.

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

Food and water safety

The Brunei Darussalam Food Authority (BDFA) is responsible for ensuring that all food is safe for consumption in Brunei. This includes compliance with food safety legislation by food premises, food handlers, and other food-related businesses. The BDFA also requires all food handlers to undergo basic food safety training and obtain a Food Handlers Certificate.

According to a female traveller who spent four days alone in Brunei, the country is "virtually crime-free." She also mentions that she felt safe walking around the city alone during the day and at night. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and avoid walking alone in dark and sparsely populated areas, as there have been some cases of violent theft in recent years.

When it comes to food, there are plenty of options available, and eating out is considered safe. One traveller mentions that even "grubby-looking places" are very clean. The Gadong market food stalls, which open from 6 pm, offer food as cheap as B$1 per pack. Another traveller recommends trying the local food at the Gadong market and the weekend bazaar in Bandar, which starts on Saturday at 6 pm and continues until Sunday evening.

If you're looking for a real local experience, one traveller suggests visiting the open-air market opposite the Brunei Hotel early in the morning. This market primarily sells food, including spices, fish, fruit, and vegetables.

For drinking water, it is always advisable to buy bottled water or use a water purifier to avoid any potential waterborne illnesses.

Frequently asked questions