Homosexuality was already punishable by up to 10 years in jail but, strict Islamic laws that punish gay sex by stoning to death has recently been introduced in Brunei, a South-east Asian country ruled by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who has amassed tons of money in oil and gas exports.
There are other crimes that also have severe punishments set to be the law on Wednesday, including amputation as punishment for theft.
This move has triggered an outcry from all parts of the world. And as a result of the “medieval punishments,” the gay community in Brunei has expressed great shock and trepidation.
The United Nations have expressed their dissatisfaction with the legislation. Calling it “cruel, inhuman and degrading and marks a serious setback for human rights protection”.
One Bruneian gay man who preferred to remain anonymous told the BBC that, “You wake up and realise that your neighbours, your family or even that nice old lady that sells prawn fritters by the side of the road doesn’t think you’re human, or is okay with stoning”.
Since 1957, Brunei has not carried out an execution but has retained the death penalty.
Brunei is appeared to be given a dual legal system – Sharia and Common law – despite severe condemnations after introducing the Sharia law in 2014. The Sultan, however, said that over several years, the new penal code will come into full force.
“And on Wednesday, the Sharia penal code would be fully implemented,” a statement released by the government on its website read. And the death penalty would apply to offences like rape, adultery, robbery, sodomy and defamation of the Prophet Muhammed.
There have been some changes, however, as it has become criminal to persuade, tell or encourage Muslim children under the age of 18 to accept any religion other than Islam.