Online bingo in Brunei Darussalam is strictly prohibited under the Common Gaming Houses Act, which bans all forms of gambling whether land-based or online (1). The Act defines gaming as playing any game of chance or of mixed chance and skill for money or money's worth, including playing or operating any gaming machine (2). Section 7 establishes that any person gaming in any public place is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine of $10,000 and imprisonment for six months (2).
The Royal Brunei Police Force and the Sharia Court serve as the enforcing agencies of gambling laws in Brunei, working together to monitor and pursue illegal gambling activities including online operations (1). All forms of gambling are forbidden whether house or street gambling for fun, hobby, or any activity where there's an opportunity to make profit, with lotteries, sport bets, casinos, and online gambling having no exceptions (1). The legislation is based on Islamic gambling laws where gambling is considered haram as it goes against the concept of earning an honest livelihood through hard work rather than chance (1).
"Those found gambling face stiff fines of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence awaiting them of up to six months. This means that the gambler can be a citizen or a foreigner, and the harsh punishment will be applicable in both cases."
Brunei's legal system merges Sharia law with common law of England, and under both rules gambling is not permitted (1). The laws do not differentiate between natives and visitors, meaning foreign nationals are equally liable as locals to receive punishments for engaging in illegal gambling activities (1). Given the current political and religious climate with Brunei enforcing more elements of Sharia law, there is no promise of any changes in gambling legislation in the near future, and the country continues tightening its grip on activities deemed immoral including all forms of online bingo (1).
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-brunei/
https://www.agc.gov.bn/AGC%20Images/LAWS/ACT_PDF/CAP%2028.pdf
Last updated: 30-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
