While many of Brunei’s social media influencers may have felt compelled to show their support for the Black Lives Matter movement, some Bruneians have accused them of hypocrisy for not having spoken out against deep-rooted racism in the country.

Author Archives: Matthew Woolfe
Matthew Woolfe is an Australia-based freelance writer, human rights advocate and the founder of The Brunei Project, an independent initiative that raises awareness about human rights issues in Brunei.
Religion, Stigma and Criminalisation: The Challenges Facing Suicide Prevention in Brunei
In Brunei, attempting suicide is still a crime. While some people try to seek help, religious beliefs, stigma and the law hamper efforts to prevent a growing number of suicides.
Critiquing the Response to Brunei’s Syariah Penal Code
Earlier this year, international attention zeroed in on Brunei and its implementation of the Syariah Penal Code. But the international media attention only focused on specific aspects of the SPC, oversimplifying the situation and neglecting to mention other human rights abuses and concerns.
Brunei’s Tightening Grip on Freedom of Expression
Colonial era laws have been maintained and used to silence critics in Brunei. But it’s not just about the law; the entrenched fear of speaking out is so deep that people self-censor even if actual prosecution is uncommon.