Syariah Penal Code okayed

HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has given his consent to the implementation of the Perintah Kanun Hukuman Jenayah Syariah (Syariah Penal Code Order).

"In conjunction with my 66th birthday, with all gratitude, (and with) which will save us all, especially the king, from (what will be) demanded by Allah Subhanahu Waa Ta'ala on Judgment Day, I, in the name of Allah the Most Merciful and Most Generous, after studying and (being) advised by the relevant body, am pleased to announce that I have consented (for) the Syariah Penal Code Order to be implemented in this country," the monarch said.

His Majesty added that with the implementation of the Islamic law, civil or takzir offences that are not punishable by Hudud laws will continue to be handled by civil law, when required.

Hudud laws cover six areas: theft, illicit sexual relations, making unproven accusations of illicit sex, drinking intoxicants, apostasy and robbery.

His Majesty also provided a warning to those who committed offences that defrauds the government, such as the smuggling of subsidised fuel, particularly diesel, abroad. "My government will not hesitate to use the laws to curb this (activity)."

Touching on Brunei's role internationally, His Majesty expressed his satisfaction with the country's cooperation with others, based on the long-standing concept of friendship and mutual respect, as well as non-interference in each other's respective national affairs.

"We (Brunei) offer our friendship to all citizens of the world... we are good partners, ready to respect anyone. We hope that our partners will also share the same stance as us, in valuing and understanding our respective aspirations, for the sake of security and welfare despite our different views."

His Majesty also noted that next year, Brunei will become ASEAN Chair and host to the ASEAN Summit and related meetings.

The Brunei Times