Compulsory Islamic Teaching in Schools

The grounds of Tumpuan Telisai School in Brunei.
A school in Brunei.
Photo: Wikipedia / Pangalau (cc)

On November 1st, Islamic religious teaching was officially integrated into the educational system of schools in Brunei. This requirement was issued due to a decree from the country's sultan. The newly mandated curriculum applies to all students from the second to fifth grades – whether they attend public or private school. It involves an hour of instruction each day, including the practise of Islamic prayers and study of the Quran.

Christians in the country have requested prayer that their children will be effectively discipled at home and in the church, so their faith will continually strengthen and sustain them. For more on the challenges facing followers of Jesus in Brunei, go to our country report.

Pray for guidance on behalf of Christian parents in this Southeast Asian country as they deal with the newly implemented educational system. May these believers continue raising their children in the ways of the Lord, teaching them to love and serve Him despite any opposition they may encounter. While navigating the growing governmental restrictions, may our Bruneian family in Christ receive divine wisdom, strength and boldness as they seek to faithfully share the Gospel message with those around them.

  • Country Information

    Population
    484,991 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Malay (67.4), Chinese (9.6), Other (23) (2021 est.)

    Religion (%)
    Muslim (82.1), Christian (6.7), Buddhist (6.3), Other (4.9) (2021 est.)

    Leader
    Sultan and Prime Minister Sir Hassanal Bolkiah (1967)

    Government type
    Absolute monarchy or sultanate

    Legal system
    Mixed legal system based on English common law and Islamic law

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Brunei

    Praise God that despite the restrictions, people are still turning to Christ!

    Pray that the country's constitutional rights will be respected for all religions.

    Pray for the salvation of the royal family.

    Pray that Christians in Brunei will be able to share the Gospel in ways that will effectively reach the hearts of those around them.

Brunei News

  • Compulsory Islamic Teaching in Schools
    The grounds of Tumpuan Telisai School in Brunei.
    A school in Brunei.
    Photo: Wikipedia / Pangalau (cc)

    On November 1st, Islamic religious teaching was officially integrated into the educational system of schools in Brunei. This requirement was issued due to a decree from the country's sultan. The newly mandated curriculum applies to all students from the second to fifth grades – whether they attend public or private school. It involves an hour of instruction each day, including the practise of Islamic prayers and study of the Quran.

  • Christians Concerned as Sharia Law Takes Effect
    Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah's image posted on shops in Brunei.
    Photo: World Watch Monitor

    The Sultan of Brunei recently announced a controversial new law based on Islamic criminal punishments. While the nation had previously used Islamic laws to regulate civil affairs, such as personal and family issues, it will now use Sharia law to cover criminal offenses. The new law affects Muslims and non-Muslims alike, and Christians are very concerned with these latest developments.