| |
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Isnin 9 Jun 2025 – Pejabat Peguam Negara mengadakan majlis sambutan Hari Raya Aidil Adha tahun 1446 Hijrah di Bangunan Undang-Undang dan Mahkamah-Mahkamah, Jalan Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha petang ini.
Hadir selaku tetamu kehormat pada majlis tersebut ialah Peguam Negara, Yang Berhormat Datin Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah binti Haji Mohammed Taib. Turut sama hadir, Peguamcara Negara, Yang Mulia Dayang Hajah Zuraini binti Haji Sharbawi dan pegawai serta kakitangan Pejabat Peguam Negara.
 
Majlis dimulakan dengan bacaan Surah Al-Fatihah dan Takbir di pimpin oleh Yang Mulia Awang Muhd Adi Faisal bin Haji Omar, Penasihat Undang-Undang dan diikuti dengan Bacaan Doa Peliharakan Sultan dipimpin oleh Yang Mulia Awang Haji Shufi bin Haji Ibrahim, Penasihat Undang-Undang, Pejabat Peguam Negara. 
Majlis merupakan salah satu aktiviti tahunan Pejabat ini yang bertujuan selain meraikan Hari Raya Aidiladha juga bagi mengeratkan hubungan silaturahim sesama pegawai dan kakitangan Pejabat Peguam Negara. -TAMAT-
| Latest News | | | Workshop on the Promotion of the ASEAN IP Register: Gearing Towards a Data-driven IP Strategy in Business
Bandar Seri Begawan, 26 May 2025 – Brunei Intellectual Property Office (BruIPO), in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property (WIPO) has organized a workshop entitled “Promotion of the ASEAN IP Register: Gearing Toward a Data-driven IP Strategy in Business." The workshop aimed to raise awareness and promote the use of the ASEAN IP Register platform as a strategic tool to support businesses and innovation.
 The ASEAN IP Register is an online platform that provides access to data and statistics from the ASEAN Intellectual Property Offices. This platform is designed to help intellectual property (IP) owners, researchers, and other stakeholders in conducting IP searches and making informed decisions related to markets, innovation, and the protection of intellectual property assets. 
During the workshop, participants were introduced to the various types of intellectual property, the registration process and its importance, and how the ASEAN IP Register can be used to support business strategies. The session also demonstrated how data from the ASEAN IP Register can be used for market research, products development, and marketing planning. 
The participants had the opportunity to engage and share ideas directly with IP experts from WIPO and BruIPO on the management and protection of intellectual property. The event brought together approximately 80 participants from government, academia, businesses, and the legal sector in the fields of intellectual property, to foster awareness and understanding of the role of IP in supporting economic growth and building business competitiveness at both national and regional levels. 
| Latest News | | | 
ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS PRESS RELEASE SATURDAY, 10TH MAY 2025 PUBLIC PROSECUTOR V HOUNG YU KAI
The Honourable Magistrate Harnita Zelda Skinner handed down her sentence today, 10 May 2025, following the Defendant, Houng Yu Kai’s conviction on 1 May 2025 after trial on an alternative count of abetment of an offence under Section 165 of the Penal Code, Chapter 22. Evidence obtained in the course of investigations conducted by the Anti-Corruption Bureau have revealed that the Defendant had abetted a public servant, one Mohd Shah Nurul Ridzuan bin Haji Maiddin, in committing an offence of obtaining for himself BND1,000.00 without consideration or for a consideration which he knew to be inadequate, which the Defendant knew to have a connection with the official functions of the said public servant as a Staff Officer (Grade II) whose duty was to process payment for the “Additional Power Point at Unit Perumahan Tingkat 2, Bangunan Lama, Kementerian Hal Ehwal Ugama” work which was provided by the Defendant’s company, Ari Cando Contractor, to the Ministry of Religious Affairs. In her sentencing remarks, the Court emphasised that case law consistently supports the imposition of custodial sentences for offences under Section 165 of the Penal Code, Chapter 22. The Court imposed on the Defendant a custodial sentence of 16 months’ imprisonment, after considering a starting point of 18 months. The sentence is ordered to commence with effect from today. The prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutor Hajah Rozaimah binti Haji Abd Rahman. The Defendant was represented by Counsel Ahmad Basuni bin Haji Abas of Abrahams, Davidson & Co. Section 165 of the Penal Code, Chapter 22 makes it an offence for a public servant to obtain or receive any gifts without any or inadequate consideration from anyone who he has any dealings connected to his official functions. This offence carries a fine and imprisonment up to 7 years. The abetment of such offence also attracts the same penalty.
--- END ---
TERJEMAHAN
PEJABAT PEGUAM NEGARA SIARAN AKHBAR SABTU, 10HB MEI 2025 PENDAKWA RAYA V HOUNG YU KAI
Yang Arif Majistret Harnita Zelda Skinner telah menjatuhkan hukumannya hari ini, 10 Mei 2025, berikutan Defendan, Houng Yu Kai, yang disabitkan bersalah pada 1 Mei 2025 selepas perbicaraan atas pertuduhan alternatif bersubahat melakukan kesalahan di bawah Bab 165 Kanun Hukuman Jenayah, Penggal 22. Keterangan yang diperoleh semasa siasatan yang dijalankan oleh Biro Mencegah Rasuah telah mendedahkan bahawa Defendan telah bersubahat dengan seorang kakitangan Kerajaan, iaitu Mohd Shah Nurul Ridzuan bin Haji Maiddin, dalam melakukan kesalahan memperoleh untuk dirinya sendiri sejumlah wang BND1,000.00 tanpa balasan atau dengan balasan yang beliau ketahui tidak mencukupi, yang mana Defendan tahu mempunyai kaitan dengan tugas rasmi kakitangan Kerajaan tersebut sebagai Pegawai Kakitangan (Gred II) yang bertanggungjawab memproses bayaran bagi kerja “Additional Power Point di Unit Perumahan Tingkat 2, Bangunan Lama, Kementerian Hal Ehwal Ugama” yang disediakan oleh syarikat Defendan, Ari Cando Contractor, kepada Kementerian Hal Ehwal Ugama. Dalam ulasan hukumannya, Mahkamah menekankan bahawa kes undang-undang lazimnya menyokong pengenaan hukuman penjara bagi kesalahan di bawah Bab 165 Kanun Hukuman Jenayah, Penggal 22. Mahkamah mengenakan hukuman penjara selama 16 bulan ke atas Defendan setelah mempertimbangkan titik permulaan pemenjaraan 18 bulan. Hukuman tersebut diperintahkan untuk mula berkuat kuasa pada hari ini. Pendakwaan telah dikendalikan oleh Timbalan Pendakwa Raya Hajah Rozaimah binti Haji Abd Rahman manakala Defendan diwakili oleh Peguam Ahmad Basuni bin Haji Abas dari firma guaman Abrahams, Davidson & Co. Bab 165 Kanun Hukuman Jenayah, Penggal 22 menjadikannya sebagai suatu kesalahan bagi mana-mana kakitangan Kerajaan untuk memperoleh atau menerima apa-apa hadiah tanpa balasan atau dengan balasan yang tidak mencukupi daripada mana-mana orang yang mempunyai apa-apa urusan berkaitan dengan tugas-tugas rasminya. Kesalahan ini boleh dikenakan denda dan hukuman pemenjaraan sehingga 7 tahun. Kesalahan bersubahat dalam perkara ini juga boleh dikenakan hukuman yang sama.
--- TAMAT --
| Latest News | | | 
ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS
PRESS RELEASE
1ST MAY 2025
PUBLIC PROSECUTOR
V
NUR ILLYANI BINTI HAJI ABD KAHAR
The Public Prosecutor has brought 31 charges against an attendant at the Raja Isteri Pengiran
Anak Saleha Hospital under Section 6(c) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, Chapter 131, at
Bandar Seri Begawan Magistrates’ Court for intentionally using overtime claims to deceive the
Ministry of Health.
Investigations conducted by the Anti-Corruption Bureau revealed that Nur Illyani Binti Haji
Abd Kahar had submitted 31 overtime claim documents between 18th February 2015 and 17th
September 2019. As a result of these misrepresentations, the Treasury Department of the
Ministry of Finance and Economy processed the claims and disbursed payments to the
Defendant.
The Defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges. The court has adjourned the case to 15th May
2025 for trial dates to be set.
The case was presided by the Honourable Senior Magistrate Dewi Norlelawati binti Haji Abdul
Hamid while Prosecuting Officer Jordan Tiah Teck Chiun appeared on behalf of the Public
Prosecutor. The Defendant was unrepresented.
Under Section 6(c) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, it is an offence to knowingly use a
document containing a false statement with the intent to deceive one’s principal. The offence
is punishable by a fine and imprisonment of up to 7 years. - END -
TERJEMAHAN
PEJABAT PEGUAM NEGARA
SIARAN AKHBAR
1HB MEI 2025 PENDAKWA RAYA
V
NUR ILLYANI BINTI HAJI ABD KAHAR
Pendakwa Raya telah mengemukakan 31 pertuduhan terhadap seorang atendan Hospital Raja
Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha di bawah Bab 6(c) dari Akta Pencegahan Rasuah, Penggal 131, ke
hadapan Mahkamah Majistret Bandar Seri Begawan kerana dengan sengaja menggunakan
tuntutan kerja lebih masa untuk menipu Kementerian Kesihatan.
Siasatan yang dijalankan oleh Biro Mencegah Rasuah mendedahkan bahawa Nur Illyani Binti
Haji Abd Kahar telah mengemukakan 31 dokumen tuntutan kerja lebih masa di antara
18hb Februari 2015 hingga 17hb September 2019. Hasil daripada penyataan palsu tersebut,
Jabatan Perbendaharaan di Kementerian Kewangan dan Ekonomi telah memproses
tuntutan-tuntutan tersebut dan membuat pembayaran kepada Defendan.
Defendan mengaku tidak bersalah kepada semua pertuduhan. Mahkamah telah menangguhkan
kes tersebut pada 15hb Mei 2025 bagi menetapkan tarikh perbicaraan.
Kes tersebut diperdengarkan oleh Yang Arif Majistret Kanan Dewi Norlelawati binti Haji
Abdul Hamid manakala Pegawai Pendakwa Raya Jordan Tiah Teck Chiun mewakili pihak
Pendakwa Raya. Defendan tidak diwakili peguam.
Di bawah Bab 6(c) dari Akta Pencegahan Rasuah, adalah menjadi suatu kesalahan dengan
mengetahuinya menggunakan suatu dokumen yang mengandungi pernyataan palsu dengan niat
untuk menipu prinsipal seseorang. Kesalahan tersebut boleh dikenakan hukuman denda dan
penjara sehingga 7 tahun.
-TAMAT-
| Latest News | | |  28 April 2025-
Penganugerahan Pingat-pingat Kehormatan Negara Brunei Darussalam yang dikurniakan oleh Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam kepada seramai 463 orang penerima setentunya menjadi penyuntik semangat bagi warga jabatan kerajaan untuk terus maju dan cemerlang demi berbakti dan memberi sumbangan kepada negara.
Empat orang pegawai dan kakitangan Pejabat Peguam Negara adalah daripada penerima pingat pingat PIKB pada majlis penganugerahan tersebut.
Pengurniaan Pingat-Pingat Kehormatan Negara Brunei Darussalam tersebut adalah sempena Hari Keputeraan Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam Ke-78 Tahun.
| Latest News | | | Khamis- 17 April 2025- Bolkiah Garison
Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah binti Hj Mohammed Taib, Peguam Negara selaku Judge Advocate General telah membuat Lawatan Kerja ke Pejabat Perundangan Tentera, Bolkiah Garison.
 
Tujuan lawatan kerja ini adalah untuk memperkukuhkan kerjasama strategik serta bertukar pandangan mengenai isu isu berkaitan dengan sistem perundangan ketenteraan dan meneroka peluang untuk mempertingkatkan kerjasama diantara kedua belah pihak.
Turut mengiringi YB Datin Peguam Negara pada lawatan ini adalah YM Dyg Hajah Zuraini binti Haji Sharbawi, Peguamcara Negara, Penolong Penolong Peguamcara Negara dan pegawai pegawai Pejabat Peguam Negara dari Bahagian Keadilan Jenayah dan Bahagain Komunikasi dan Strategi.
| Latest News | | |  BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Khamis, 27 Mac 2025 – Sempena sambutan bulan Ramadhan Al-Mubarak 1446 Hijrah / 2025 Masehi, Pejabat Peguam Negara telah mengadakan Majlis Sambutan Nuzul Al-Quran dan Khatam Al-Quran yang berlangsung di Dewan Jubli Emas, Bangunan Undang-Undang dan Mahkamah-Mahkamah, Jalan Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha hari ini.
Tetamu kehormat pada majlis tersebut ialah Yang Berhormat Peguam Negara, Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Nor Hashimah Binti Haji Muhammed Taib. Turut hadir ialah pegawai dan kakitangan Pejabat Peguam Negara. 
Majlis dimulakan dengan bacaan Surah Al-Fatihah di pimpin oleh Awang Muhd Adi Faisal Bin Haji Omar, Penasihat Undang-Undang, Pejabat Peguam Negara dan diikuti dengan bacaan Takhtim, doa Khatam, dikir dan doa Selamat. 
Aktiviti keagamaan ini dijalankan setiap tahun bagi memuliakan bulan Ramadhan yang bermula dari awal Ramadhan oleh pegawai dan kakitangan Pejabat Peguam Negara. Antara objektif majlis seumpama ini diadakan adalah untuk mengeratkan hubungan silaturrahim di kalangan pegawai-pegawai dan kakitangan Pejabat ini. -TAMAT-
| Latest News | | |
22hb Mac 2025 - Sempena bulan Ramadhan yang Al-Mubarak, Bahagian Hal Ehwal Korporat melalui Bahagian Komunikasi dan Strategi selaku Penyelaras Discussion Hub (D-Hub) bulanan telah menganjurkan tazkirah “Andai ini Ramadhanku yang terakhir” di Dewan Jubli Emas, Bangunan Undang-undang dan Mahkamah hari ini. Tazkirah tersebut disampaikan oleh Yang Mulia Ustaz Nasyith bin Haji Superi dari Pusat Dakwah Islamiah.
  Hadir di majlis tersebut ialah pegawai-pegawai kanan, pegawai-pegawai dan kakitangan Pejabat Peguam Negara.
| Latest News | | |
The First Meeting of the 21st Legislative Council (LegCo) Session which commenced on the 26th February 2025, was attended by representatives from Legislative Drafting Division (LDD) and Civil Division (CD) of the Attorney General’s Chambers, who took turns to attend each LegCo sitting.
The primary responsibility of LDD during the Meeting was to assist LegCo in their procedures and processes and specifically to support the smooth running of the Meeting and debates to ensure consistency with the Standing Orders of the Legislative Council. CD, on the other hand, was tasked to attend the Meeting for purposes of noting any legal issue which emerged during the debates and in questions posed by LegCo Members.
LDD was represented by Dyg Hjh Zunaidah Ismail, Dyg Wajeehah Wahab, and Awg Hj Shufi Hj Ibrahim. While CD, was represented by the following officers and apprentices under the Civil Service Apprenticeship Scheme (SkiPPA) – Awg Ratno Eddy Sophian bin Haji Zaidi, Dyg Hilarie Shim Yi Yyn, Dyg Kamilah binti Awang Mohamad, Dayang Bazilah Amirah binti Awang Haji Mohamad Yunus, Dyg Siti Dayana Amerah binti Mohamad Sunadi, Dyg Zahidah Nur Zahidah Farhanah binti Abdul Aziz, Dyg Naomi Melissa Choo, Dyg Nurin Najla @ Motia'ah binti Hismawadi, Dyg Siti Nuramni Aiman binti Haji Bahar, Dyg Syazana Syafiqah Adilah binti Haji Mahdini, Dyg Nazurah Amani binti Abidin, Dayang Nurul Amirah Faeezah binti Haji Mohamad Sufri, Dyg Zulaiha Beevi binti Abdul Salam, Dyg Nurfarhana Fikriyah binti Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohammad Irwan, and Awg Muhammad Izzuddin Husain bin Haji Bakari.
The 21st Legislative Council Session was adjourned on 20 March 2025 and will reconvene later in the year.
- End -
| Latest News | | | ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS
PRESS RELEASE
SATURDAY, 22ND MARCH 2025
PUBLIC PROSECUTOR V HAJAH NURUL HUDA @ HAJAH RUSIATI BINTI ABDULLAH
MCCT/BSB/54/2025
The
Magistrate’s Court of Brunei Darussalam has sentenced Hajah Nurul Huda @ Hajah
Rusiati binti Abdullah, a 34-year-old former Immigration Officer, to two years’ imprisonment
after she pleaded guilty to four charges of corruption under Section 6(a) of the Prevention of
Corruption Act, Chapter 131.
The offences involved accepting monetary rewards from an Indonesian national between
October 2023 and July 2024, in exchange for facilitating the unlawful departure of foreign
nationals from Brunei Darussalam without the required re-entry permits, in violation of the
Immigration Act, Chapter 17. Investigations revealed that the defendant had knowingly accepted payments—both in cash
and via bank transfer—amounting to a total of BND 500. These payments were made in
return for her assistance in allowing foreign individuals to leave Brunei unlawfully.
The offences came to light after Malaysian Immigration authorities at Miri ICQ detected
discrepancies in a foreign national’s travel records and discovered another concealed
individual in a vehicle. This prompted a cross-border investigation, which was subsequently
referred to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).
In mitigation, defence counsel for the defendant urged the Court to consider the defendant’s
personal circumstances, including her early guilty plea, cooperation during investigation,
and the relatively small sum involved, in seeking a more lenient sentence. The Prosecution, however, argued that corruption - regardless of the amount - erodes public
trust and leads to disintegration of public administration, particularly when committed by
enforcement officers in positions of responsibility.
During sentencing, the Court highlighted the defendant’s serious breach of public trust as an
enforcement officer responsible for safeguarding Brunei’s immigration borders.
“Corruption, however small the amount, is contagious and cannot be taken lightly,”
remarked Senior Magistrate Hajah Azrimah binti Haji Abdul Rahman. “Even the slightest act
of corruption sets a dangerous precedent. It damages the integrity of the country and erodes
public trust.”
The court further held that a custodial sentence was necessary to reflect the seriousness of
the offence, to send a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated to safeguard
public trust and to preserve the stability of the country. The Court ordered that the sentences for two of the four charges run consecutively, with the
remaining charges to run concurrently, resulting in a total sentence of two years’
imprisonment, effective from the date of conviction on 8 February 2025.
The case was prosecuted by Deputy Public Prosecutor Nurul Fitri Kiprawi, while the
defendant was represented by Pg Khairul Nizam bin Pg Hj Mohd Yassin of Messrs Yusof
Halim and Partners.
-END-
Terjemahan
PEJABAT PEGUAM NEGARA
SIARAN AKHBAR
SABTU, 22HB MAC 2025
PENDAKWA RAYA LAWAN HAJAH NURUL HUDA @ HAJAH RUSIATI BINTI ABDULLAH
MCCT/BSB/54/2025
Mahkamah Majistret Negara Brunei Darussalam telah menjatuhkan hukuman penjara
selama dua tahun ke atas Hajah Nurul Huda @ Hajah Rusiati binti Abdullah, seorang bekas
Pegawai Imigresen berusia 34 tahun, setelah beliau mengaku bersalah terhadap empat
pertuduhan rasuah di bawah Bab 6(a) Akta Pencegahan Rasuah, Penggal 131. Kesalahan tersebut melibatkan penerimaan ganjaran wang daripada seorang warganegara
Indonesia antara Oktober 2023 dan Julai 2024, sebagai pertukaran untuk memudahkan
pemergian warga asing dari Negara Brunei Darussalam dengan menyalahi undang-undang
tanpa permit masuk semula yang diperlukan, yang melanggar Akta Imigresen, Penggal 17.
Siasatan mendapati bahawa defendan dengan sengaja menerima pembayaran – secara tunai
dan melalui pindahan bank – berjumlah BND 500. Pembayaran ini dilakukan sebagai balasan
atas bantuannya dalam membenarkan individu asing itu meninggalkan Brunei secara haram.
Kesalahan itu terbongkar selepas pihak berkuasa Imigresen Malaysia di ICQ Miri mengesan
perselisihan dalam rekod perjalanan seorang warga asing dan menemui seorang individu
yang disembunyikan dalam sebuah kenderaan. Ini mendorong penyiasatan rentas sempadan
yang kemudiannya dirujuk kepada Biro Mencegah Rasuah (BMR). Dalam mitigasi, peguambela bagi defendan menggesa mahkamah untuk mempertimbangkan
keadaan peribadi defendan, termasuk pengakuan bersalah awalnya, kerjasama semasa
siasatan, dan jumlah wang yang terlibat yang dianggap kecil, dalam usaha untuk
mendapatkan hukuman yang lebih ringan. Pihak Pendakwaan, bagaimanapun, menghujahkan bahawa rasuah – tanpa mengira
jumlahnya –akan merosakkan kepercayaan orang ramai dan membawa kepada perpecahan
dalam pentadbiran awam, terutamanya apabila dilakukan oleh pegawai penguatkuasa yang
memegang tanggungjawab itu. Semasa menjatuhkan hukuman, Mahkamah menekankan keseriusan pelanggaran terhadap
kepercayaan orang ramai oleh Defendan sebagai seorang pegawai penguatkuasa yang
bertanggungjawab menjaga sempadan Imigresen Negara Brunei Darussalam. “Rasuah,
walaupun sekecil mana jumlahnya, bersifat menular dan tidak boleh diambil ringan,” ujar
Majistret Kanan Hajah Azrimah binti Haji Abdul Rahman. “Tidak kira betapa kecilnya
perbuatan rasuah, ia boleh menimbulkan kebiasaan yang berbahaya. Ia boleh merosakkan
integriti negara dan menghakis kepercayaan awam.”
Mahkamah seterusnya memutuskan bahawa hukuman penjara adalah perlu bagi
mencerminkan keseriusan kesalahan itu, serta untuk menyampaikan mesej yang jelas
bahawa perbuatan sedemikian tidak boleh diterima demi menjaga kepercayaan orang ramai
dan mengekalkan kestabilan negara.
Mahkamah memerintahkan agar hukuman bagi dua daripada empat pertuduhan dijalankan
secara berturut-turut, manakala hukuman bagi pertuduhan yang selebihnya dijalankan
serentak, yang membawa kepada jumlah hukuman penjara selama dua tahun, berkuat kuasa
mulai tarikh sabitan pada 8 Februari 2025.
Pendakwaan dijalankan oleh Timbalan Pendakwa Raya Nurul Fitri Kiprawi, manakala
defendan diwakili oleh Pg Khairul Nizam bin Pg Hj Mohd Yassin dari Tetuan Yusof Halim and
Partners. -TAMAT-
| Latest News | | | PRESS RELEASE TADARUS AL-QURAN CEREMONY IN RAMADAN FOR THE PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE AND ITS DEPARTMENTS FOR THE YEAR 1446H / 2025M
TEMBURONG, Wednesday, 12 March 2025 – In an effort to enliven and glorify the blessed month of Ramadan, as well as to seek the rewards and blessings promised by Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) and its departments, held their third Tadarus Al-Quran Ceremony for 1446H / 2025M this afternoon at Labu Estate Mosque, Temburong District. The ceremony was organized by the Attorney General's Chambers in collaboration with the Mosque Takmir Committee of Labu Estate Mosque. Present as the Head of the Delegation was the Deputy Minister (Civil Service Governance) at PMO, Yang Mulia Dato Seri Paduka Awang Mohammed Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohammed Yunos. Also present at the ceremony were the Permanent Secretary and Deputy Permanent Secretary of PMO, Temburong Police District Acting Commanding Officer, along with officers and staff from PMO and its departments. The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by Tadarus Al-Quran session, beginning with the recitation of Juz 21, led by the Head of the Delegation. Following this, the presentation of waqaf or endowment contributions consisting of mosque necessities, handed over by the Deputy Minister (Civil Service Governance) at PMO to the Mosque Affairs Officer, Yang Mulia Khairunamirin Fitri bin Haji Samsudin, who also serves as the Imam of the mosque. The event concluded with Asar congregational prayer. The closing ceremony of the Tadarus and Khatam Al-Quran for the PMO and its department, insha Allah, will be held on Sunday, 14 Ramadhan 1446 corresponding to 15 March 2025, at Ash-Shaliheen Mosque, PMO Building Complex. Such religious gatherings during Ramadhan are among the annual activities of the PMO, aimed at strengthening ties among officers, staff, mosque congregants, and local villagers. -END-
| Latest News | | | .png) .png)
ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS & ANTI-CORRUPTION BUREAU JOINT PRESS RELEASE SATURDAY, 8 MARCH 2025 PUBLIC PROSECUTOR
V HJ MUHAMMAD SUFFIAN BIN HAJI BUNGSU [D1] JONATHAN KHO CHEW SEN [D2] Two government servants, Hj Muhammad Suffian bin Haji Bungsu and Jonathan Kho Chiew Sen, were found not guilty by the Magistrate's Court following a trial for offences under section 6 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, Chapter 131 and alternative charges under section 165 of the Penal Code, Chapter 22. Hj Muhammad Suffian was alleged to have corruptly accepted from Jonathan a Mercedes C200 CGI AMG Sports purchased at BND66,800 as an inducement or reward for securing the appointment of Jonathan as the Acting Head of News and Current Affairs at Radio Television Brunei (RTB). The incident occurred on or about 17th July 2014 when Hj Muhammad Suffian was the Director of RTB and Jonathan was his subordinate. In the alternative, it was alleged that Hj Muhammad Suffian obtained the car without consideration from his subordinate who he knew to have a connection with his offical functions. Jonathan was alleged to have abetted Hj Muhammad Suffian in doing so by giving the car. Jonathan was appointed as the Acting Head of News and Current Affairs between between 2013 and 2016. The position was renewed every 3 months and his letters of appointment were signed by Hj Muhammad Suffian. The Anti-Corruption Bureau began investigations into the matter in 2021 and the Defendants were then charged in the Magistrates Court on 11th April 2022. The Prosecution called 6 witnesses whereas the Defendants gave evidence and called 2 witnesses. The Court heard that on 17th July 2014, Jonathan fully paid for the Mercedes car in cash at the car dealer and registered it in Hj Muhammad Sufian's name. He personally presented the car as a surprise to Hj Muhammad Suffian at his home. The claim that the BND66,800 used to pay for the car is an interest-free loan only came into existence after this purchase and delivery. Both Defendants reiterated that their relationship were professional in nature only. The Honourable Court accepted that it was plausible for Jonathan to pay in advance for Hj Muhammad Suffian to avoid a substantial increase in the purchase price due to loan interest. This is given that Jonathan came from a wealthy family and have previously bought cars in cash. The Court also recognised his generosity towards his RTB colleagues as evidenced by his contributions to office events and using substantial personal funds to assist his colleagues and RTB for work-related purposes. Therefore, the Court found that his purchase of the Mercedes car for a colleague was not an isolated incident. Although no repayments have ever been made, the Court accepted that it was credible that Jonathan trusted Hj Muhammad Suffian's ability to repay the amount in lump sum once he had sufficient funds. Given his access to personal or family resources, Jonathan's testimony that he had no immediate need for repayment of the funds was found to be believable. The Court found that Jonathan's appointment as Acting Head of News was based on his merit and is consistent with his long-standing role in the position predating Hj Muhammad Suffian's tenure at RTB. The Court concluded that there was no suggestion for Jonathan to believe he was at risk of not being renewed in the appointment which could lead him to engage in corrupt activity with Hj Muhammad Suffian. Based on the overall conclusions made, the Court acquitted both Defendants of all the charges. The Defendants were represented by Yusof Halim & Partners, Advocates & Solicitors. The Prosecution has filed a notice of appeal against the acquittals. The Anti-Corruption Bureau will continue working to uphold public trust and accountability. The Anti-Corruption Bureau would like to remind the public including public servants serving under the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam that the corrupt giving or acceptance of any form of gifts including loans amounts to gratification and is an offence under section 6 of the Prevention of Corruption Act be liable to a fine of $30,000 and imprisonment for 7 years. It is also an offence under section 165 of the Penal Code for a public servant to accept or attempt to obtain any valuable thing without or with inadequate consideration from any person whom he knows to have any connection with his official functions, which is punishable with imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years and fine. - END -
PEJABAT PEGUAM NEGARA & BIRO MENCEGAH RASUAH SIARAN MEDIA BERSAMA SABTU, 8 MAC 2025 PENDAKWA RAYA V HJ MUHAMMAD SUFFIAN BIN HAJI BUNGSU [D1] JONATHAN KHO CHEW SEN [D2] Dua kakitangan kerajaan, Hj Muhammad Suffian bin Haji Bungsu dan Jonathan Kho Chiew Sen, didapati tidak bersalah oleh Mahkamah Majistret selepas perbicaraan untuk suatu kesalahan di bawah bab 6 Akta Pencegahan Rasuah, Bab 131 dan pertuduhan alternatif di bawah bab 165 dari Akta Kanun Hukuman Jenayah, Penggal 22. Hj Muhammad Suffian didakwa menerima rasuah daripada Jonathan iaitu sebuah Mercedes C200 CGI AMG Sports yang dibeli pada harga BND66,800 sebagai dorongan atau ganjaran untuk memastikan lantikan Jonathan sebagai Pemangku Ketua Berita dan Hal Ehwal Semasa di Radio Televisyen Brunei (RTB). Kejadian tersebut berlaku pada sekitar 17hb Julai 2014 ketika Hj Muhammad Suffian merupakan Pengarah RTB dan Jonathan adalah orang bawahannya. Dalam pertuduhan alternatif, didakwa bahawa Hj Muhammad Suffian memperoleh kereta tersebut tanpa pertimbangan daripada orang bawahannya yang diketahui mempunyai hubungan dengan tugas rasmi beliau. Jonathan didakwa telah membantu Hj Muhammad Suffian melakukan perbuatan itu dengan memberikan kereta tersebut. Jonathan dilantik sebagai Pemangku Ketua Berita dan Hal Ehwal Semasa antara tahun 2013 dan 2016. Jawatan tersebut diperbaharui setiap 3 bulan dan surat lantikan beliau telah ditandatangani oleh Hj Muhammad Suffian. Biro Mencegah Rasuah memulakan siasatan terhadap perkara ini pada tahun 2021 dan Defendan kemudiannya didakwa di Mahkamah Majistret pada 11hb April 2022. Pendakwaan memanggil 6 orang saksi manakala Defendan memberikan keterangan dan memanggil 2 orang saksi. Mahkamah mendengar bahawa pada 17hb Julai 2014, Jonathan membayar sepenuhnya kereta Mercedes tersebut secara tunai di pengedar kereta dan mendaftarkannya atas nama Haji Muhammad Suffian. Beliau secara peribadi menyerahkan kereta tersebut sebagai kejutan kepada Hj Muhammad Suffian di rumahnya. Dakwaan mengenai BND66,800 yang digunakan untuk membayar kereta tersebut adalah pinjaman tanpa faedah yang hanya wujud selepas pembelian dan penghantaran tersebut. Kedua-dua Defendan menegaskan bahawa hubungan mereka hanya bersifat professional. Mahkamah menerima bahawa adalah munasabah bagi Jonathan untuk membayar terlebih dahulu bagi pihak Hj Muhammad Suffian bagi mengelakkan kenaikan harga pembelian yang tinggi akibat faedah pinjaman. Ini memandangkan Jonathan berasal daripada keluarga mewah dan sebelum ini telah membeli kereta secara tunai. Mahkamah juga mengiktiraf sifat murah hati beliau terhadap rakan-rakan RTB seperti yang dibuktikan dengan sumbangan beliau kepada acara-acara pejabat dan menggunakan dana peribadi yang banyak untuk membantu rakan-rakannya dan RTB untuk tujuan yang berkaitan dengan kerja. Oleh itu, Mahkamah mendapati bahawa pembelian kereta Mercedes untuk rakan sekerja bukan satu perkara yang asing. Walaupun tiada bayaran balik pernah dibuat, Mahkamah menerima bahawa adalah wajar untuk Jonathan mempercayai keupayaan Hj Muhammad Suffian untuk membayar balik jumlah tersebut secara sekaligus apabila beliau memunyai dana yang mencukupi. Memandangkan akses beliau kepada sumber peribadi atau keluarga, keterangan Jonathan bahawa beliau tidak memerlukan pembayaran semula dana tersebut dalam masa terdekat didapati boleh dipercayai. Mahkamah mendapati pelantikan Jonathan sebagai Pemangku Ketua Berita adalah berdasarkan merit beliau dan selaras dengan peranan jangka panjang beliau dalam jawatan tersebut sebelum Hj Muhammad Suffian dilantik di RTB. Mahkamah membuat kesimpulan bahawa tidak ada cadangan untuk Jonathan mempercayai beliau berisiko untuk tidak disambung dalam pelantikan tersebut yang boleh menyebabkan beliau terlibat dalam aktiviti rasuah dengan Hj Muhammad Suffian. Berdasarkan kesimpulan keseluruhan yang dibuat, Mahkamah membebaskan kedua-dua Defendan daripada semua tuduhan tersebut. Defendan diwakili oleh Yusof Halim & Partners, Advocates & Solicitors. Pihak pendakwaan telah memfailkan notis rayuan terhadap pembebasan itu. Biro Mencegah Rasuah akan terus berusaha untuk mempertahankan kepercayaan orang ramai dan akauntabilitnya. Biro Mencegah Rasuah ingin mengingatkan orang ramai termasuk kakitangan Kerajaan yang berkhidmat di bawah Kerajaan Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam bahawa pemberian atau penerimaan rasuah dalam apa-apa bentuk hadiah termasuk pinjaman yang berjumlah untuk memuaskan hati dan adalah satu kesalahan di bawah bab 6 Akta Pencegahan Rasuah boleh dikenakan denda sebanyak $30,000 dan penjara selama 7 tahun. Ia juga adalah satu kesalahan di bawah bab 165 dari Akta Kanun Hukuman Jenayah bagi seseorang kakitangan kerajaan untuk menerima atau cuba mendapatkan apa-apa benda yang berharga tanpa atau dengan pertimbangan yang tidak memadai daripada mana-mana orang yang diketahui mempunyai kaitan dengan tugas rasmi, yang boleh dihukum penjara tidak melebihi 7 tahun dan denda. -TAMAT-
| Latest News | | | 
ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS PRESS RELEASE THURSDAY, 6 MARCH 2025 PUBLIC PROSECUTOR'S APPEAL AGAINST THE INADEQUACY OF SENTENCE IMPOSED IN THE MAGISTRATE'S COURT FOR OFFENCE OF OUTRAGING MODESTY ALLOWED IN THE HIGH COURT The Prosecution's successful appeal against sentence on a 62-year-old local citizen, Hapandi bin Tahir (“Respondent") for an offence of outraging the modesty of a 25-year-old woman under Section 354 of the Penal Code, Chapter 22 resulted in the quashing of a sentence of 8 months' imprisonment imposed in the Magistrate's Court. In allowing the appeal on 5th March 2025, the Honourable Judicial Commissioner Muhammed Faisal bin PDJLD DSP Haji Kefli substituted the said sentence with a custodial sentence of 12 months' imprisonment. During the appeal, Deputy Public Prosecutor Hajah Siti Mu'izzah binti Haji Sabli, appearing for the Public Prosecutor, submitted that the Senior Magistrate had failed to place sufficient weight on the aggravating factors present, particularly the repeated touching of the victim's thigh and buttock. It was highlighted that the victim was alone and trapped in the Respondent's vehicle when the offence was committed. The Prosecution also highlighted to the Court the psychological harm done to the victim as a result of the incident. The Prosecution further submitted that the Senior Magistrate had wrongly applied the one-third reduction in sentence, which is typically given to defendants who plead guilty at the first instant. In delivering his judgment, the Honourable Judicial Commissioner was of the view that the sentence of 8 months' imprisonment was manifestly inadequate given the aggravating factors. Furthermore, the Honourable Judicial Commissioner agreed with the Prosecution that awarding one-third discount to the Respondent was wrongly applied by the Senior Magistrate. As such, the Respondent ought not to have been afforded any discounts following his conviction after trial.
--- END ---
SIARAN AKHBAR KHAMIS, 6 MAC 2025
RAYUAN PENDAKWA RAYA TERHADAP HUKUMAN YANG TIDAK MEMADAI YANG TELAH DIJATUHKAN OLEH MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET BAGI KESALAHAN MENCABUL KEHORMATAN DIBENARKAN OLEH MAHKAMAH TINGGI Kejayaan Pendakwa Raya dalam rayuan terhadap hukuman keatas seorang warga tempatan yang berumur 62 tahun, Hapandi bin Tahir (“Responden") bagi kesalahan mencabul kehormatan seorang wanita berumur 25 tahun di bawah bab 354 Kanun Hukuman Jenayah, Penggal 22 telah menghasilkan keputusan pembatalan keatas hukuman 8 bulan penjara yang dijatuhkan oleh Mahkamah Majistret. Dalam membenarkan Rayuan Pendakwa Raya tersebut, pada 5 Mac 2025, Yang Arif, Pesuruhjaya Kehakiman Muhammed Faisal bin PDJLD DSP Haji Kefli telah menggantikan hukuman tersebut menjadi hukuman pemenjaraan selama 12 bulan. Semasa Rayuan, Timbalan Pendakwa Raya Hajah Siti Mu'izzah binti Haji Sabli, yang hadir bagi pihak Pendakwa Raya, berhujah bahawa Majistret Kanan telah gagal untuk menimbangkan faktor-faktor yang memburukkan keadaan, terutama sekali sentuhan yang dibuat berulang kali pada paha dan punggung mangsa. Perkara mangsa yang bersendirian dan terperangkap di dalam kereta Responden semasa kejadian dilakukan adalah juga ditekankan. Pihak Pendakwaan juga menekankan kepada Mahkamah kemudaratan psikologi kepada mangsa yang telah diakibatkan oleh kejadian ini. Pihak Pendakwaan selanjutnya berhujah bahawa Majistret Kanan telah salah dalam menggunakan pengurangan satu per tiga hukuman, yang lazimnya hanya diberikan kepada defendan yang mengaku bersalah pada kesempatan awal. Semasa penyampaian penghakiman ini, Yang Arif Pesuruhjaya Kehakiman berpendapat bahawa hukuman penjara 8 bulan adalah jelas tidak memadai memandangkan adanya faktor-faktor yang memburukkan lagi keadaan dalam kes ini. Seterusnya, Yang Arif Pesuruhjaya Kehakiman bersetuju dengan pihak Pendakwaan bahawa pemberian satu per tiga pengurangan hukuman kepada Responden adalah salah sepertimana yang digunakan oleh Majistret Kanan tersebut. Oleh itu, Responden sepatutnya tidak layak untuk diberikan pengurangan hukuman berikutan pensabitannya selepas perbicaraan. --- TAMAT ---
| Latest News | | |
ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS PRESS RELEASE
27TH FEBRUARY 2025
“PUBLIC PROSECUTOR CHARGES BANGLADESHI NATIONAL FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING”
The Public Prosecutor today has brought charges against a 43-year-old Bangladeshi national for offences relating to human trafficking. The case was heard in the High Court before The Honourable Judicial Commissioner of the Supreme Court Muhammed Faisal bin PDJLD DSP Haji Kefli, with Deputy Public Prosecutor Hjh Siti Mu’izzah binti Haji Sabli representing the Public Prosecutor. Investigations by the Human Trafficking Investigation Unit of the Royal Brunei Police Force revealed that the Defendant, Mahedi Hasan, allegedly trafficked three Bangladeshi victims into Brunei Darussalam between 2018 and 2019, through deception for the purposes of forced labour.
The Defendant was faced with two charges under Section 4 of the Trafficking and Smuggling of Persons Order, 2004, for offences occurring in 2018, before the enforcement of the current Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, Chapter 230. The Prosecution also preferred one charge under Section 5(1) of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, Chapter 230 for a similar offence committed in 2019.
All charges were read to the Defendant, who confirmed his understanding and pleaded not guilty. The court has adjourned the case to 24 March 2025 for trial dates to be set. If convicted, the Defendant faces a fine of up to BND$1,000,000, imprisonment for up to 30 years, and whipping under the Trafficking and Smuggling of Persons Order, 2004. Additionally, under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, Chapter 230, he could face a minimum fine of BND$10,000 per trafficked victim. Authorities remain steadfast in their efforts to combat human trafficking, underscoring Brunei Darussalam's commitment to fighting exploitation and ensuring justice for victims.
- END -
| Latest News | | | 
ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS PRESS RELEASE Regional Workshop on Criminal Justice Response to Trafficking in Persons for Forced Criminality in the Southeast Asia Region, Organized by United Nation Office on Drugs and Crime (UNDOC) BANGKOK, THAILAND 18th February 2025 – 19th February 2025
On February 18th and 19th, 2025, two judicial officers from the State Judiciary Department and two legal counsels from the Attorney General's Chambers participated in a workshop on trafficking in persons in Bangkok, Thailand, titled "Regional Workshop on Criminal Justice Response to Trafficking in Persons for Forced Criminality in the Southeast Asia Region". The regional workshop, held by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and sponsored by the European Union, addresses the rising cases of human trafficking linked to forced criminal activities, particularly online scams, which have sharply increased in Southeast Asia since 2020. This specialized workshop was designed to enhance the capacity of legal practitioners in conducting comprehensive legal analysis and forming recommendations to improve the effectiveness of criminal justice systems in addressing the global issue of trafficking in persons. The focus includes tackling the unprecedented challenges posed by transnational organized crime groups that traffic people for sexual exploitation, forced labor, and, increasingly, forced criminality. The course provided participants with up-to-date information on best practices from various Southeast Asian countries, as well as the challenges faced during prosecution. Participants were also trained on how to use evidence obtained through investigations effectively to secure convictions for trafficking in persons offenses and ensure justice for victims. Approximately, forty legal practitioners from nine countries participated in the two-day course. The program also aimed to promote international cooperation to address the increasing crime of trafficking in persons and ensure a stronger response to all forms of exploitation.
| Latest News | | |
17th February 2025 - Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah binti Haji Mohammed Taib, the Attorney General of Brunei Darussalam, received a courtesy visit from the Honourable M. Kula Segaran, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) of Malaysia, at The Law Building. This visit is part of the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) ASEAN tour in light of Malaysia's ASEAN 2025 Chairmanship. During the courtesy call, Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah binti Haji Mohammed Taib and the Honourable M. Kula Segaran discussed opportunities to further strengthen bilateral cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia in legal and institutional matters. A key focus of their discussions was to enhance collaboration in legal areas such as in Commercial Arbitration and International Mediation. Both parties also explored ways to enhance cooperation, foster knowledge sharing, and support capacity building efforts, with the ultimate goal of establishing a framework that would mutually benefit both countries. Also present during the courtesy call were Yang Mulia Hajah Zuraini binti Haji Sharbawi (Solicitor General) and senior officers from the Attorney General's Chambers.
| Latest News | | | 
ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS PRESS RELEASE Saturday, 1st February 2025 Public Prosecutor v. F Bin D (HCCT/3/2023) On 30th January 2025, a 51-year-old local man was sentenced to 25 years and 6 months' imprisonment by the High Court of Brunei Darussalam for having committed the offence of rape against his own granddaughter, aged 6 years old[HRbHAR1] .
The Defendant, married with 10 children, is the head of family and also the maternal grandfather of the Victim, Miss X. At the time of the commission of the offence, the Defendant and Miss X were living together, with other members of the family. The Defendant had committed the heinous act on Miss X in one of the bedrooms of the said house. The sexual abuse came to light sometime in January 2023, when Miss X's mother noticed that Miss X was acting strangely. Upon asked by her mother about her change in behaviour, Miss X then confided in her mother and revealed the Defendant's atrocious sexual act on her. Acting swiftly, Miss X's mother lodged a police report, leading to a thorough investigation by the Women and Children Abuse Investigations Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department, Royal Brunei Police Force. Investigations uncovered incriminating evidence from Miss X and other witnesses, as well as a gynaecological report of Miss X. The Defendant was charged in the High Court and had pleaded not guilty to a charge of rape under Section 376(3)( c) of the Penal Code, Chapter 22 and went for trial. Deputy Public Prosecutor Nor Ádliatul Hidayah binti Hj Mohd Zaidi called 8 witnesses, including Miss X. Given Miss X's very young age and limitations, her evidence at trial was elicited through her oral evidence and a video recording of her interview taken during police investigations. The Defendant was duly convicted upon completion of the trial by the Honourable Judicial Commissioner Muhammed Faisal bin PDJLD DSP Haji Kefli. In its submissions, the Prosecution emphasised the overwhelming aggravating factors in the case. The Prosecution emphasised the Defendant's gross breach of trust as a grandfather to Miss X, highlighting how he exploited her vulnerability due to her tender age. Moreover, the incident occurred in their family home, a place where Miss X should have been protected and felt safe. As the Defendant is above 50 years old, under section 258 of the Criminal Procedure Code, Chapter 7, he is exempted from whipping. As such, the High Court imposed 6 months' imprisonment in lieu of whipping. In delivering the sentence of 25 years 6 months' imprisonment, the Honourable Judicial Commissioner Muhammed Faisal bin PDJLD DSP Haji Kefli remarked that the severe punishment is to serve as deterrence to the Defendant and others on the seriousness of incestuous rape.
| Latest News | | | 
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Sabtu, 1 Feb 2025 – Pejabat Peguam Negara mengadakan majlis sambutan Isra' Mi'raj bagi tahun 1446 Hijrah di Bangunan Undang-Undang dan Mahkamah-Mahkamah, Jalan Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha petang ini. 
Hadir selaku tetamu kehormat pada majlis tersebut ialah Peguam Negara, Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah Binti Haji Muhammed Taib. Turut sama hadir, Peguamcara Negara, Yang Mulia Dayang Hajah Zuraini binti Haji Sharbawi dan pegawai serta kakitangan Pejabat Peguam Negara. 
Majlis dimulakan dengan bacaan Surah Al-Fatihah dan bacaan ayat-ayat Suci Al-Quran yang disampaikan oleh Yang Mulia Pengiran Muhd Amirul Aiman bin Pengiran Haji Marjuki. Majlis diserikan dengan Ceramah Khas bertajuk “Sembahyang Mencerdaskan Minda" disampaikan oleh Yang Mulia Ustazah Siti Juhaidah binti Haji Bujang. 
Majlis merupakan salah satu aktiviti tahunan Pejabat ini dalam sama-sama menyemarakkan sambutan hari Kebesaran Islam, iaitu peristiwa bersejarah Isra' dan Mi'raj Nabi Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam di samping mengeratkan hubungan silaturahim sesama pegawai dan kakitangan Pejabat Peguam Negara.
| Latest News | | | 3-4 February 2025
The 4th Law Seminar was held at the Theatre of the Prime Ministers Office in Bandar Seri Begawan. The event was officiated by the Acting Permanent Secretary (Security and Law) at the Prime Minister's Office, Tuan Zulhusam bin Haji Abdul Samad. The Seminar was organized by the Prime Minister's Office and the Attorney General's Chambers and was attended by about 160 participants from Ministries and Government Department. Invited Speakers were officers from the Attorney General's Chambers, Syariah Court, the Judiciary, the Anti Corruption Bureau and the Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Center. The seminar was concluded by a closing ceremony, attended by Puan Hajah Zuraini binti Haji Sharbawi, the Solicitor General.
Day 1
   
Day 2
 
| Latest News | | |
The Opening of the Legal Year 2025 took place at the Supreme Court, Bandar Seri Begawan on Thursday 23 January 2025. The annual event brings together the Judiciary, the Attorney General's Chambers and the Legal Professions to mark the start of the Court's Legal Year.
 
YB Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Norhashimah binti Haji Mohammed Taib, Attorney General attended the event by firstly receiving a salutation from the Royal Brunei Police Force Guard of Honour. YB Datin Attorney General also delivered her speech. The event was also attended by Puan Hajah Zuraini binti Haji Sharbawi, Solicitor General and officers of the Attorney General's Chambers.
| Latest News | | | PEJABAT PEGUAM NEGARA SIARAN AKHBAR 8hb Januari 2025 PENDAKWA RAYA V MUHAMMAD ALI ISKANDAR BIN MUSTAPHA Bekas Penolong Pegawai Narkotik II Muhammad Ali Iskandar bin Mustapha didakwa di hadapan Yang Arif Majistret Kanan Hajah Azrimah binti Abdul Rahman pada 26 Disember 2024, atas lima pertuduhan di bawah bab 12B Akta Pencegahan Rasuah, Penggal 131, dan dua pertuduhan diambil kira. Bab ini membawa hukuman denda sebanyak $30,000 dan penjara selama 7 tahun. Kes itu terbongkar apabila Biro Kawalan Narkotik (BKN) menangkap seorang individu (orang kena tangkap “OKT") yang disyaki terlibat dalam penyalahgunaan dan penjualan dadah terlarang di Negara Brunei Darussalam. Semasa siasatan dijalankan, Muhammad Ali Iskandar didapati sentiasa berhubung dengan OKT tersebut di mana Muhammad Ali Iskandar secara sukarela memberikan maklumat berkaitan operasi dalaman BKN sebanyak 7 kali dalam tempoh yang singkat sebulan. Tujuan beliau menawarkan maklumat tersebut kepada OKT adalah untuk memanfaatkan hubungan OKT tersebut dengan tempat kejadian dadah terlarang - sama ada untuk mendapatkan maklumat yang boleh melindungi dirinya daripada dikesan oleh BKN sebagai penyalah guna dadah, untuk memaklumkan OKT mana- mana tangkapan yang boleh mengakibatkan implikasi kepada mereka berdua, atau semata- mata untuk mendapatkan bekalan dadah terlarang untuk dirinya sendiri.
Pihak Pendakwaan menekankan di hadapan Yang Arif Majistret Kanan Hajah Azrimah binti Abdul Rahman yang mana ini adalah kes pertama salah laku dalam perkhidmatan awam oleh penjawat awam yang dijatuhkan hukuman di mahkamah Negara Brunei Darussalam. Pihak Pendakwaan mengemukakan bahawa kepentingan awam menuntut pengenaan hukuman penjara yang cukup panjang untuk jenis salah laku seperti ini di dalam perkhidmatan awam, yang sangat mengerikan dan telah menyebabkan kemudaratan awam yang ketara, khususnya, keyakinan orang ramai terhadap keupayaan Biro Kawalan Narkotik. untuk membanteras pengedaran dadah dan penyalahgunaan dadah terlarang. Pihak Pendakwaan memohon kepada Mahkamah untuk menjatuhkan hukuman penjara yang panjang dan berat, untuk mencapai pencegahan dan untuk menghantar mesej yang jelas bahawa anggota agensi penguatkuasaan undang-undang dipegang pada standard yang lebih tinggi daripada orang awam lain kerana mereka diamanahkan oleh orang ramai tanggungjawab untuk menghapuskan jenayah dalam bidang masing-masing, dan pengabaian tanggungjawab tersebut akan membawa akibat yang teruk. Muhammad Ali Iskandar mengaku bersalah kepada semua pertuduhan yang dikenakan ke atasnya. Majistret Kanan kemudiannya menjatuhkan hukuman keseluruhan penjara 2 tahun 8 bulan. Pendakwaan dikendalikan oleh Timbalan Pendakwa Raya Siti Khalillah binti Haji Hussin. - TAMAT -
| Latest News | | | ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS PRESS RELEASE 8th January 2025 PUBLIC PROSECUTOR V WARDER 724 MOHAMMAD AZIZAN BIN LIUSIN Senior Magistrate Dewi Norlelawati binti Haji Abdul Hamid sentenced Warder 724 Mohammad Azizan bin Liusin to 24 months in prison on 7th January 2025, after his guilty pleas to two charges under Section 6(a) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, Chapter 131. The defendant, aged 33, was convicted of the two charges for accepting payments to facilitate unauthorised communication between a prisoner in Maraburong Prison and individuals outside the said prison. Investigations by the Anti-Corruption Bureau revealed that, in November and December 2020, the defendant had accepted payments of BND $600 and BND $50, respectively, in exchange for conveying letters between an inmate in Maraburong Prison and the inmate's family members and business associate. In her sentencing remarks, the Senior Magistrate highlighted the integral role of prison in maintaining order and security. She further underscored the serious nature of the offence committed by the defendant stating that if corruption is practiced by those responsible in prison rehabilitation, it would undoubtedly cause the loss of public confidence and trust of the prison institution, as well as eroding the morale of honest prison officers. In deciding her sentence, the Senior Magistrate noted that deterrent sentences were necessary to convey the court's zero-tolerance stance on corruption so as to ensure the integrity of the prison institution.
The court, having considered the aggravating and mitigating factors of the case, guided by the precedents set in previous similar cases, sentenced the defendant to a starting point of 18-months' imprisonment for each of the charges. Consequently, the court reduced the sentences of 18 months to 12 months on each charge and, given the separate occasions on which the offences were committed, ordered for the sentences to run consecutively; amounting to 24 months in total. The sentence was subsequently ordered to take effect from the 31st of December 2024, the date of the defendant's guilty plea. The prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutor Ahmad Firdaus bin Mohammad. Section 6(a) of the Prevention of Corruption Act penalizes individuals who accept gratification in connection with their principal's affairs or business, with punishments including fines and imprisonment of up to seven years. - END -
| Latest News | | | 
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, 3rd November 2024 – The Honourable Attorney General, Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah Binti Haji Mohammed Taib, received a Farewell call from His Excellency Mr. Luke Arnold Australia High Commissioner in Brunei Darussalam, at the Law Building.
| Latest News | | | 
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, 2nd November 2024 – The Honourable Attorney General, Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah Binti Haji Mohammed Taib, received a courtesy call from Tuan Reeda Malik, General Manager Print Plus Sdn Bhd, at the Law Building.
 
| Latest News | | | PRESS RELEASE World Intellectual Property Day Celebration with the theme: “IP and the SDGs: Building our common future with Innovation and Creativity"
Bandar Seri Begawan – Brunei Darussalam celebrated World Intellectual Property Day 2024 on 28 November with an event jointly organised by the Brunei Darussalam Intellectual Property Office (BruIPO) and Datastream Digital Sendirian Berhad (DST). Held at the Songket Ballroom, Rizqun International Hotel, the event focused on the theme “IP and the SDGs: Building Our Common Future with Innovation and Creativity."  
The Guest of Honour, Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah binti Haji Mohammed Taib, the Honorable Attorney General and Registrar of Trade Marks, Patents, and Industrial Designs, delivered the keynote address. She emphasised intellectual property as a key driver of sustainable development, noting its critical role in fostering innovation and addressing global challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Highlights included IP's contributions to agriculture (SDG 2 and SDG 12), education (SDG 4), clean energy (SDG 7), and climate action (SDG 13).
In his welcoming remarks, Radin Sufri Radin Basiuni, CEO of DST, highlighted the importance of digital innovation, stating, “By embracing the principles of the Global Innovation Index and the SDGs, we can position ourselves to become catalysts for our Digital Economy by investing in innovation digital infrastructure and human capital, together we can create a vibrant and sustainable digital future". 
The event featured prize presentations for BruIPO's National Poster Making and DST Innovation Awards. It also included a keynote presentation by an independent economic consultant on “IP and Development: Building Our Common Future with Innovation and Creativity" and a forum on “Innovating for a Sustainable Future: How IP Drives Progress Across the SDGs". Panelists included experts from BruIPO, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, the Ministry of Education, and Brunei Innovation Lab. Guest speakers from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Amazon Web Services (AWS) delivered insightful presentations on “Understanding the Link Between IP and SDGs" and “Innovation with Amazon's Working Backwards Process."
The event brought together approximately 200 participants from government, academia, businesses, and the legal sector, reinforcing BruIPO and DST's shared commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth for Brunei Darussalam and beyond.
| Latest News | | |  PRESS RELEASE RELEASE DATE: 18TH NOVEMBER 2024 Public Prosecutor v. M Bin T
A 43-year-old man was sentenced to 40 years and 6 months' imprisonment and 17 strokes of whipping by the High Court of Brunei Darussalam for sexually abusing his two nieces, marking it the highest sentence ever imposed for sexual offences in this country. The offences, which included rape, outraging modesty, and unauthorized recording of abusive acts including that of a child, were committed over more than a decade. The Honourable Justice Muhammad Faisal bin PDJLD DSP Haji Kefli described the crimes as “heinous and audacious," highlighting the defendant's exploitation of his familial role and condemning his actions as a profound betrayal of trust. The abuse began in 2011 when the elder niece, referred to as Miss A, was just seven years old. Her younger sister, Miss B, was similarly victimized starting at the same age. The defendant, a widower with two sons, had been entrusted with the care of his nieces, who frequently stayed at his home. In one incident in early 2022, while his bedridden wife was in the living room, the defendant sexually abused Miss A and recorded the act. In another instance, shortly after his wife's death, the defendant raped Miss A while his two young sons were in the same room. The abuse came to light in July 2022, when the victims confided in their mother who promptly lodged a police report, leading to a thorough investigation by the Women and Children Investigations Unit, Criminal Investigations Department, Royal Brunei Police Force. Investigations uncovered incriminating evidence on the defendant's mobile phone, including recordings of the abusive acts. In mitigation, the defendant sought for leniency, admitting full responsibility of his actions and citing that he is now a single father with two young sons who depend on him. Deputy Public Prosecutors Nurul Fitri Kiprawi and Abdul Hanan Haji Erwan, in their submissions, highlighted the overwhelming aggravating factors present in the case including the calculated and predatory nature of the offences, the repetitive abuse and the psychological impact on the victims. Reports submitted to the Court detailed the severe emotional distress endured by both victims. Miss A, now 20, was found to suffer from anxiety, depression, and emotional conflict. Miss B, now 17, exhibited signs of low self-esteem and heightened anxiety, with clinical assessments indicating that both victims would benefit from ongoing psychological support. The defendant's late plea of guilty to the 15 charges, entered midway through trial after six prosecution witnesses—including both victims—had testified, was noted by the Court as coming too late to spare the victims from the emotional burden of testifying, and afforded him only a minimal sentencing discount. In imposing the sentence of 40 years 6 months imprisonment and 17 strokes of whipping, the Court acknowledged the profound psychological harm inflicted on the victims, who continue to struggle with the trauma of the abuse. Delivering the sentence, the Honourable Justice Faisal remarked on the victims' mixed feelings of sadness, regret, and fear, as revealed in court. He noted that their sadness stemmed from their continued closeness to the defendant's sons, their regret arose from being betrayed by someone they regarded as a father figure, and their fear was tied to the day the defendant would be released from prison. The Honourable Justice Faisal stated that the sentence imposed must serve not only to punish and deter the defendant, but to also ensure that Miss A and Miss B can live long, peaceful lives, knowing they are safe from further harm. This sentence should grant them the opportunity to reclaim their future – to live fully, to grow old in peace, and to find solace for the loss of their childhood and youth". All parties in the case cannot be named due to a gag order imposed by the Court. In a statement released by the Attorney General's Chambers, the public is reminded that sexual offences, particularly those involving abuse of trust, carries severe penalties, including up to 30 years' imprisonment and 12 strokes of the cane for a single offence of rape under section 376 of the Penal Code, Chapter 22. -END-
| Latest News | | |  BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, 13th November 2024 – The Honourable Attorney General, Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah Binti Haji Mohammed Taib, received a courtesy call by His Excellency Mohammed Taghi Rajabi, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Brunei Darussalam, at the Law Building.
 
| Latest News | | | 
The Attorney General's Chambers in collaboration with the Max Planck Foundation for International Peace and the Rule of Law (Foundation) conducted a one-day workshop on the “Implementation of UNCLOS in Brunei – Maritime Zones & Environmental Protection" on 2nd November 2024 at the Radisson Hotel, Bandar Seri Begawan. The workshop commenced with opening remarks from Her Excellency Gerda Winkler, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany in Brunei, Yang Mulia Pengiran Hajah Siti Rahmah binti Pengiran Haji Mohammad, Assistant Solicitor General of the Attorney General's Chambers, and Miss Trang Pham Ngoc Minh, research fellow from the Foundation. The objective of the workshop was to provide a platform for discussion of the main findings of the Study on the Implementation of United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea (UNCLOS) in Brunei Darussalam, with a particular focus on maritime zones and marine environmental protection. The Study is part of an ASEAN-Max Planck Foundation Cooperation Project 2022-2025 and was undertaken by the Foundation with a view to assess the implementation of UNCLOS in the internal legislation of ASEAN Member States, including Brunei Darussalam. 29 participants comprising officials from the relevant agencies in Brunei Darussalam attended the workshop. The workshop was funded by the German Federal Foreign Office to commemorate 40 years of diplomatic relations between Brunei Darussalam and the Federal Republic of Germany. The Foundation is an independent and non-profit organisation, founded in 2013 and based in Heidelberg, Germany. They offer technical assistance to developing countries in the form of consultation and training in various areas of law including the law of the sea, legislative drafting and public international law.
| Latest News | | | 14th China ASEAN Prosecutors-General Conference Singapore 
The Honourable Attorney General and Public Prosecutor, Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Nor Hashimah binti Haji Taib led a delegation of prosecutors from the Criminal Justice Division at the 14th China ASEAN Prosecutors-General Conference on 29th October 2024 held in Singapore. The ASEAN-China Prosecutors-General Conference aims to strengthen cooperation among the Prosecution authorities of ASEAN Member States and People's Republic of China to promptly and effectively combat transnational crimes to ensure the peace, stability, security and sustainable development of ASEAN Member States and People's Republic of China. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the annual Conference and focused on the theme “Fostering Cooperation on Combating Financial Crimes". The Brunei Darussalam delegation attended a biennial Attorney-General's Lecture held in conjunction with the Conference on 28th October 2024. His Excellency Ying Yong, Prosecutor General of the Supreme People's Procuratorate of the People's Republic of China, delivered a lecture in which he shared People's Republic of China's initiatives in ensuring the upholding of the rule of law demonstrated through successful cases. Additionally, His Excellency shared on the roles and functions of The Supreme People's Procuratorate of the People's Republic of China.
His Excellency Edwin Tong SC, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Law of Singapore delivered a keynote address at the opening session where he called for urgent need for international collaboration to combat the rising threat of financial crimes across borders. His Excellency shared Singapore's recent legal and regulatory amendments aimed at strengthening asset recovery, prosecuting money laundering and fostering cross-border cooperation. His Excellency Lucien Wong, the Attorney-General of Singapore chaired the Conference in which each head of delegation emphasised the need for sharing strategies, strengthening legal frameworks, and fostering collaboration to address the complexities of cross-border financial crime effectively. His Excellency Ying Yong reiterated China's commitment in strengthening judicial collaboration to combat financial crimes within the ASEAN region in an effort to uphold the rule of law and foster a more secure region. The Honourable Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Nor Hashimah binti Haji Taib, Attorney General and Public Prosecutor, delivered a statement echoing the critical need to work closely together in combating financial crimes which have become increasingly complex in an interconnected world. Strengthening engagement with international bodies and networks is vital in overcoming challenges of investigations and prosecution of financial crimes as such, this Conference provides a useful opportunity for prosecutors to pool knowledge and sharing successful strategies. At the end of the Conference, a Joint Declaration was signed by the heads of delegations from the People's Republic of China and ASEAN Member States to reaffirm their commitment to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance collaboration between China and ASEAN prosecution services in combating financial crimes. The declaration outlines commitments to information sharing, adoption of best practices, continuous professional development, public awareness campaigns, and fostering collaboration with law enforcement, businesses, and civil society. - END -
| Latest News | | | ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS PRESS RELEASE MONDAY, 28 OCTOBER 2024 The Honourable Senior Magistrate Hajah Azrimah binti Haji Abd Rahman handed down her sentence today, 28 October 2024, following the Defendant, Seruji bin Haji Setia's conviction on 12 October 2024 after trial on five (5) counts of Section 165 of the Penal Code, Chapter 22. Evidence obtained in the course of investigations conducted by the Anti-Corruption Bureau have revealed that the Defendant had obtained for himself valuable items, namely carpets, sofa cushion covers, car seat cushion covers from the Managing Director of Daiecharm Deco Sdn Bhd and BND$100.00 cash from the Manager of B.T. Employment Agency on five (5) different occasions. The prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutors Hajah Rozaimah binti Haji Abd Rahman, Ahmad Firdaus bin Mohammad and Radin Abdul Malik Wafri bin Radin Mas Mohamad Sufri. The Defendant was represented by Counsel Ahmad Basuni bin Haji Abas of Abraham, Davidson & Co. In her sentencing, the Honourable Senior Magistrate Hajah Azrimah binti Haji Abdul Rahman remarked that public servants are the bedrock of strong governance, however corruption erodes this foundation, undermining the integrity of government institutions in Brunei Darussalam. The Defendant's role as a Senior Chief Immigration Officer at the relevant time was considered by the Court as a significant aggravating factor, as individuals in such positions are expected to maintain high standards of integrity and serve as role models. The Court noted that his misuse of authority as the Head of the Work Pass Section by granting preferential treatment to certain business owners and employment agencies undermines public confidence and sets a concerning precedent for subordinates. The Defendant was imposed with a sentence of 18 months' imprisonment for 1st – 5th charges under Section 165 of the Penal Code, Chapter 22. The Court ordered for the sentences for 1st – 4th charges to run concurrently, and to be consecutive to the sentence for the 5th charge, thereby resulting in a cumulative total sentence of 3 years' imprisonment. The sentence was ordered to commence with the day he was remanded following his conviction on 12th October 2024. Section 165 of the Penal Code, Chapter 22 makes it an offence for a public servant to obtain or receive any gifts without any or inadequate consideration from anyone who he has any dealings connected to his official functions. This offence carries a fine and imprisonment up to 7 years. --- END ---
| Latest News |
|
