Brunei Darussalam’s legal framework has seen significant progress in the past year, with key legislative amendments, strengthened enforcement measures, and an unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Attorney general Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Nor Hashimah binti Haji Mohammed Taib underscored these advancements in her speech at the Opening of the Legal Year 2025, held at the Supreme Court on Thursday.
Addressing a distinguished audience, the attorney general reflected on the profound responsibility of her role, acknowledging the legacy of her predecessors.
“Never did I imagine that one day, I would address this distinguished audience as Attorney general. It is both a humbling honour and a solemn duty,” she remarked.
A COMMITMENT TO THE RULE OF LAW
The attorney general reaffirmed the importance of the rule of law in ensuring justice, public trust, and national progress.
She emphasised that this principle aligns with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s vision for a public service rooted in integrity and accountability, as highlighted in a titah at the 30th Civil Service Day Celebration in 2023.
In 2024, the Attorney general’s Chambers (AGC) facilitated key legislative amendments, including revisions to the Employee Trust Act and the Employment Act, along with the introduction of a personal data protection law.
Additionally, Law Revision Orders incorporated 30 updated legislations into Brunei’s Revised Edition of Laws, ensuring they remain relevant in areas such as cybersecurity, workplace safety, and financial oversight.
While legislative reforms are crucial, the attorney general stressed that their effectiveness hinges on consistent and fair enforcement.
“For laws to achieve their purpose, they must be consistently and fairly upheld,” she stated, adding that strengthened prosecution measures are essential to maintaining public confidence.
UPHOLDING JUSTICE THROUGH PROSECUTION
Recent high-profile cases have demonstrated Brunei’s firm stance against corruption and misconduct, even within public institutions.
The attorney general highlighted the convictions of enforcement officers who abused their positions for personal gain, including a former assistant narcotics officer who leaked sensitive information and a former chief senior immigration officer who accepted bribes.
Another landmark case involved a relief teacher for special needs children, who was sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment with three strokes of the cane.
The trial, which relied on non-verbal testimony using sign language and visual aids, set a precedent for how Brunei’s courts handle cases involving victims with disabilities.
“This conviction underscores the importance of ensuring justice is accessible to all,” the attorney general said. Such cases, she noted, underscore the need for strong prosecutorial integrity to prevent the erosion of trust in public institutions.
“Acts of misconduct, if left unchecked, risk not only diminishing public confidence but also undermining the integrity of the rule of law,” she warned.
LEGAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO ECONOMIC GROWTH
Beyond enforcement, the AGC plays a vital role in Brunei’s economic resilience. The Civil Division has provided extensive legal support to His Majesty’s Government, advising on 22 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and 157 contracts in 2024.
These agreements support Brunei’s long-term economic vision under Brunei Vision 2035.
The International Affairs Division (IAD) has also strengthened Brunei’s global legal standing through international treaties, including its involvement in the UK Accession Protocol to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and amendments to the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA).
“These efforts showcase Brunei Darussalam as a stable and attractive hub for investment,” the attorney general noted.
Additionally, the Intellectual Property Office of Brunei Darussalam (BruIPO) has launched a patent examiner apprenticeship programme to build local expertise in intellectual property law, with tailored support from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). “This initiative is crucial in incentivising innovation and protecting intellectual property,” she added.
TRAINING AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Recognising the evolving nature of legal practice, the AGC continues to invest in capacity building. Officers have participated in training programmes focused on legislative drafting, prosecution, and intellectual property law.
A milestone achievement last year was the selection of a Bruneian officer as a panellist at the International Association of Prosecutors Regional Conference in Hong Kong – an unprecedented representation of Brunei at the global stage.
The attorney general also emphasised the importance of nurturing the next generation of legal professionals.
“The legal fraternity must fulfil our individual roles while appreciating the contributions of others toward our common goal,” she said, acknowledging the efforts of the Judiciary, the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Education, UNISSA, and the Law Society in mentoring young lawyers.
LOOKING AHEAD
The attorney general reaffirmed the AGC’s commitment to excellence in legal service, thanking her officers for their dedication.
“Though we may be small in numbers, our commitment to delivering excellence ensures we remain steadfast in supporting the Government’s priorities,” she said.
She also extended congratulations to Haji Mohammad Zainidi bin Haji Abdul Hamid on his election as the new President of the Law Society, expressing confidence in his leadership. – Rizal Faisal
