This live blog is a page where Bruneians can get trusted, verified information on the COVID-19 outbreak. We will post news as it happens, debunk misinformation and share the latest updates from the Ministry of Health.
If you are in need of urgent advice, contact the Health Advice Line at 148.
Banks to defer loan repayments for all businesses in private sector
10.01pm | March 30, 2020
The government has announced an eight-month deferment of bank loan repayments worth $250 million for businesses, private sector employees and self-employed individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic starting April 1.
The loan repayment deferral is part of the government’s $450 million economic stimulus package to mitigate the impact of COVID-19, which includes the previously announced interim measures such as wage subsidy and social security contributions.
The financial package are as follows:
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Deferment of the principal payment of loans or financing to all business sectors;
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Restructuring and deferment of principal amount on personal loans and hire purchase facilities such as car loans for not more than 10 years;
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Deferment on the principal amount or financing of real estate;
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Restructuring of outstanding credit card balances into a loan for a period of not more than three years. This is applicable to those in the private sector only, including those who are self-employed. However, this does not include increasing the amount of credit card limit during the three-year period.
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All bank fees and charges, except third party charges, will be waived.
The deferment is from the date of approval until March 31 next year. Applications can be made to the respective banks and financial institutions from April 1 to December 30, 2020.
During a press conference, Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said applications are subject to assessment of their banks and financial institutions.
“With the addition of these relief measures, it is hoped that banks would be able to support businesses and individuals who are affected, thus alleviating their financial burden under these difficult circumstances,” he said.
The minister said the banking sector in Brunei remains resilient, stable and has sufficient capital funds.
For more information on these measures, the public can contact their banks or AMBD at 2388388 or email info@ambd.gov.bn.
Mosque closure extended for another week
8.24pm | March 30, 2020
All mosques, surau and prayer halls will remain closed for a third week to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the religious affairs minister announced on Monday.
YB Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Badaruddin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Awg Othman said the COVID-19 situation remains dangerous in Brunei, thus the decision to extend the closure.
He said mosques and other places of worship have been disinfected and steps will continue to be taken to ensure they remain clean and safe when they reopen.
The temporary mosque closure does not apply to the observance of Nisfu Syaaban, which falls on April 8. However, this may change depending on the latest COVID-19 developments.
One new case confirmed; new virology lab opens on April 1
7.51pm | March 30, 2020
The Ministry of Health recorded one new COVID-19 case on Monday, a three-year-old boy who is a close contact of a previously confirmed patient. The national tally of coronavirus cases stands at 127.
Another four patients have been allowed to return home after making full recoveries. A total of 38 people have been discharged from the National Isolation Centre so far.
In his daily press briefing, Health Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Hj Jaafar said three patients are now in critical condition while one is being closely monitored.
Four out of nine Bruneians who tested positive for the coronavirus in Kuala Kumpur have also returned home. They are linked to the Tabligh gathering cluster in Malaysia’s Sri Petaling Mosque.
A total 531 people have chosen to isolate themselves at home after returning from abroad. Out of the number, 346 are students.
Those who are isolating at home and yet to take the COVID-19 test have been urged to report themselves to Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital’s Sports Complex immediately.
About 72 per cent of 1,051 people who are undergoing the mandatory isolation at designated monitoring centres have taken the swab test for coronavirus.
A total of 5,980 tests have been administered to date.
The minister said construction of the new testing lab on Jalan Sumbiling has been completed and will start operating on April 1.
The virology lab is expected to increase Brunei’s testing capacity and speed up the testing process.
YB Dato Dr Hj Mohd Isham also called on anyone who had contact with Case 121 from March 10-15 to call 2380665 or 8163065 during office hours. The ministry is still conducting contact tracing to determine the 21-year-old’s source of infection.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen Mode366 Bruneians repatriated from Egypt
9.03pm | March 29, 2020
A total of 366 Brunei students have returned home after being evacuated from Egypt amid the global COVID-19 pandemic.
The students — the majority of whom study at Al-Azahar University — were flown from Cairo in two special chartered flights operated by Royal Brunei Airlines.
The first flight arrived on Saturday morning carrying 236 students, while the second flight arrived on Sunday morning carrying 131 Bruneian students as well as 84 Malaysians stranded in Egypt.
The Malaysian contingent from Cairo flew back to Kuala Lumpur this afternoon, accompanied by another 25 Malaysian nationals who were stranded in Brunei.
Brunei assisted Malaysia with the repatriation of 84 Malaysians who were stranded in Cairo. Malaysia on the other hand assisted Brunei with the repatriation of 134 Bruneians who were stranded in KL. The special and strong 🇲🇾🇧🇳 bilateral ties has made this collaboration possible. pic.twitter.com/nIexnN0RhY
— Wisma Putra (@MalaysiaMFA) March 29, 2020
Egypt closed its schools and universities on March 14, as the number of coronavirus infections reached 109. Five days later it suspended all international flights until March 31.
As of March 28, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Arab republic is 576.
Six new cases brings Brunei total to 126
7.03pm | March 29, 2020
The Ministry of Health (MoH) reported six new coronavirus cases on Sunday, bringing the national total to 126.
A further nine people have been discharged from the National Isolation Centre after making a full recovery, with the total number of recovered patients at 34. Two patients remain in critical condition.
Three of the new cases had recent travel history to Melbourne, Bangkok and Austria via London.
Two cases were close contacts of previously confirmed cases. For the sixth new case, a 21-year-old male known as Patient 121, contact tracing is still being conducted.
During his daily press briefing, health minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Md Isham Hj Jaafar said one patient tested who positive for COVID-19 had used the new online self-assessment tool to check his/her symptoms.
According to the most recent numbers released on Thursday, more than 6,000 people have used the online self-assessment tool to check their symptoms.
To date, 61 percent of Brunei’s confirmed COVID-19 cases are men, while 38 percent are women. Forty-six percent of cases in Brunei are asymptomatic.
Some 917 individuals are still under quarantine for having close contact with people who tested positive for the virus, while MoH has conducted 5,656 COVID-19 tests since January 2020. That means that one in every 78 people in Brunei has been tested, among the highest testing rates in the world.
YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham added that the donations from the COVID-19 relief fund — which reached $1.2 million on Saturday — will be used to buy beds and medical supplies.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModeGovernment to pay 25% of private sector workers’ wages
9.31pm | March 28, 2020
The government will pay 25 per cent of private sector employees’ salaries for three months as part of additional measures to help businesses ride out the economic slowdown triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Announcing the new measures in a press conference, Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said the government will cover a portion of the wages of micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) employees who earn $1,500 and below.
He said the wage subsidy will alleviate the financial burden of MSMEs and hoped that it would protect local employees’ jobs.
MSMEs that have 100 staff and below can submit completed application forms for the wage subsidy to payments@tap.com.bn. The application forms can be downloaded from the Employees Trust Fund’s website from April 1.
In an effort to generate more jobs, the government has also expanded the iReady apprenticeship programme to include holders of Higher National Diploma, Advanced Diploma and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) certification.
During the apprenticeship — which has been shortened from three years to 18 months — the government will pay an allowance of $800 to degree holders, $600 to diploma holders and $400 for people with TVET certification.
Starting March 2020, the government has also waived the rental fees of tamu and gerai stalls under the home affairs ministry for six months.
The minister said Darussalam Enterprise (DARe) will increase the number of grants for e-commerce and logistics service companies under its “co-matching grant” initiative to help these businesses prepare for the future.
To promote lifelong learning and upgrade the skills of local employees, the Manpower Planning and Employment Council and DARe have also prepared online training programmes.
The new initiatives were announced a week after MoFE unveiled its first set of economic measures to help the private sector survive the downturn.
YB Dato Dr Hj Mohd Amin said JobCentre Brunei has also been revamped to improve the effectiveness of filling the advertised job vacancies.
“People need to realise that when there are job opportunities, they must grab it. This is an unusual time, it’s not like you have many choices in front of you.
“It’s not a time to choose what you want to do. The more people [who managed to] secure jobs, the less burden [it will place] on the government,” he added.
The minister said the government has already spent “tens of millions of dollars” for the health ministry to combat the COVID-19 outbreak.
“I am sure this is not the end of it, there will be more we need to spend on,” he added.
Tally reaches 120 with five new infections
7.01pm | March 28, 2020
Brunei has reported five new coronavirus cases on Saturday, with four of the patients recently returning from overseas. The tally of COVID-19 cases has reached 120.
Giving his daily update in a press briefing, Health Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Hj Jaafar said three of the new cases had a travel history to United Kingdom.
One patient is a close contact of a confirmed carrier of the virus while another case returned from Manila on March 14.
Fourteen patients have been discharged from the National Isolation Centre overnight, taking the total number of recoveries to 25.
Two people are in critical condition and another two require intensive care.
The ministry has also reported the highest number of people released from quarantine in a day after 1,110 completed their quarantine.
A total of 909 people are still in quarantine, down by 20 per cent from yesterday.
The ministry has also conducted 5,133 laboratory tests thus far.
YB Dato Dr Hj Mohd Isham said Brunei residents can now file applications to exit the country through the Prime Minister’s Office’s website instead of submitting via email.
The government banned all Brunei residents with a valid identity card from leaving the country on March 15, except those who have urgent or emergency matters.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModeBrunei records first death from COVID-19
9.18am | March 28, 2020
A 64-year-old man has died from complications due to COVID-19, the first death in the country linked to the global coronavirus pandemic.
The man, only identified as Patient 25, passed away on Friday evening at 8.20pm, the Ministry of Health said in a statement this morning.
He had recently travelled to Kuala Lumpur and Cambodia, returning to Brunei on March 4. He reported the onset of symptoms on March 8 and tested positive for the coronavirus on March 12.
He began receiving treatment at the National Isolation Centre in Tutong, and when his condition worsened on March 16 he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.
He succumbed to the illness on the evening of March 27, after being on life support for four days.
Out of respect for the family’s privacy, the health ministry has not released the personal details or medical history of the deceased.
It also urged the public to refrain from disseminating personal information about the deceased on social media.
New isolation centre building to be ready in 2-3 weeks
8.18pm | March 27, 2020
The government is building a new isolation centre that will increase bed capacity by 170 when it is ready to treat COVID-19 patients in two to three weeks, the development minister said.
In a press conference, YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Suhaimi Hj Gafar said the government started building the new centre today near the existing National Isolation Centre in Tutong.
The new centre will accommodate more coronavirus-infected patients who need intensive care as the existing centre has reached nearly 80 percent of its 136-bed capacity.
As of Friday, 104 COVID-19 patients are still being treated at the National Isolation Centre.
The minister said it is important to set up a new isolation centre as new cases have been reported every day since the first Bruneian was detected on March 9.
Architects and engineers at the development ministry are also holding discussions with doctors to study the design and specific facilities needed to ensure the building can be operated as an isolation centre as soon as possible.
YB Dato Hj Suhaimi said some of the facilities at the new isolation centre include individual monitoring wards, X-Ray room, counselling and meeting rooms as well as on-call rooms for doctors and nurses.
Health Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Hj Jaafar said building a new isolation centre was not part of the government’s initial plan as the existing centre was deemed good enough for the country with its 27 beds that are fitted for those who need intensive care.
However, the ministry now requires more beds due to the increasing number of coronavirus infections in Brunei.
“What we are doing now is [increasing the capacity], hopefully the spread of this virus will not overstretch our health system too much. What is most important now is preparing our ICU for any possibilities,” he said.
The ministry also has plans to isolate confirmed COVID-19 patients at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Saleha if the number of COVID-19 patients exceed the amount of beds at the isolation centre.
“We are trying not to use RIPAS Hospital or any other hospital, if possible,” the health minister added.
One new case confirmed, another 6 patients recover
6.51pm | March 27, 2020
The Ministry of Health has confirmed one new COVID-19 case, while six more patients have recovered from the coronavirus.
Eleven people have been discharged from the National Isolation Centre in Tutong since the first case was reported nearly three weeks ago. Brunei’s COVID-19 case tally now stands at 115.
Delivering his daily update on Friday, Health Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Md Isham Hj Jaafar said the new case involved a local who returned from a family holiday in the United Kingdom on a March 21 Royal Brunei Airlines flight.
The ministry has also confirmed that Case 103 – whose source of infection was previously unknown – is linked to the Tabligh gathering cluster in Brunei following “detailed investigations”.
Two patients are in critical condition and three require intensive care.
YB Dato Dr Hj Mohammad Isham said even though the number of confirmed cases declined, precautionary measures must continue to be taken as many people are still in quarantine or undergoing self-isolation.
A total of 1,140 people are being quarantined while 874 people have been discharged from their quarantine.
The ministry has administered 4,994 tests to date.
As tens of thousands of civil servants are expected to receive their monthly salary tomorrow, the minister reminded Bruneians to practise physical distancing at stores, markets and banks, including the use of ATM machines.
Shop owners were advised to limit the number of customers at one time and use floor markers with a distance of at least one metre to separate shoppers at payment counters.
The minister also called on Bruneians not to abuse the 148 health advice line as prank calls will prevent people from seeking help. The hotline ran into “technical issues” on Thursday.
Bruneians were also urged not to discriminate against COVID-19 patients as this does not help the government in its fight to contain the outbreak.
“What’s important is we learn from mistakes and reflect on them. We must remember not to attack [the patients] as solidarity is important,” YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham added.
Fullscreen ModeMoFE to provide drive-through pension collection services
9.41pm | March 26, 2020
The government will set up drive-through collection counters for service and derivative pensions on Saturday (March 28) in an effort to prevent mass gatherings and crowding.
The second minister of finance and economy, YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah, said a large number of recipients still prefer to receive their payments through service counters despite the availability of banking services.
The drive-through will be operational on March 28 and March 30 from 7.30am to 4pm at the following places:
- International Convention Centre, Berakas
- Dewan Persidangan in Kuala Belait
- Dewan Kemasyarakatan, Tutong
For recipients in Temburong district, drive-through services are not available but they can still collect their pension payment at the Treasury Department office.
After March 30, recipients can still collect their payments over the next 10 working days at the designated locations.
Those in Brunei-Muara can collect their pension payment at the Ministry of Finance and Economy, while recipients in other districts can receive their payment from Treasury Department branches.
Pension recipients are required to bring along their identity cards.
YB Dato Amin Liew said for recipients who have a bank account but have yet to register with the Treasury Department, they are required to bring along a copy of their bank card to facilitate the payment process for the next month.
Members of the public can call 2380822/2383469 for more information.
COVID-19 Relief Fund surpasses $1 million
8.51pm | March 26, 2020
Donations made to the COVID-19 Relief Fund have surpassed $1 million, five days after it was launched.
Joining the health and education ministers in a press briefing, Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said the fund would help the health ministry contain the spread of the coronavirus.
The director-general of health services has been given authorisation to spend the funds to speed up the process of procuring medical supplies.
The minister said the government will also audit the relief fund to ensure it is not used for other purposes.
Meanwhile, the website that was launched on Tuesday to provide the latest information on COVID-19 has recorded over 50,000 visitors.
YB Dato Dr Hj Mohd Amin said more than 6,000 people have also used the online self-assessment tool to check their symptoms.
More features such as health education resources and a direct reporting platform will be added to the web app in the near future.
MoE allows teachers to work from home
8.07pm | March 26, 2020
Teachers will be given flexible working arrangements when they deliver their classes online starting March 30, the education minister said.
In a press conference on Thursday, YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Hamzah Hj Sulaiman said the working procedures of schools and teachers will have to change given the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.
School leaders can allow teachers to work from home, including staff who are pregnant or other vulnerable groups.
The minister said it was important for students to continue learning while at home, thus the decision requiring public and private schools to conduct their classes online when the new academic term starts next Monday.
“We need to be aware that the capacity of schools are different. The approaches taken will depend on the school leaders and capacity of teachers,” he added.
For special needs students, he said parents are encouraged to call their schools to make learning arrangements.
Tuition centres were also urged to provide online lessons to promote physical distancing.
For more information, the public can contact the ministry’s COVID-19 Operation Centre at 2382396 during office hours.
COVID-19 tally rises to 114, three patients make full recovery
6.59pm | March 26, 2020
Five more people have tested positive for COVID-19, raising the cumulative tally of cases to 114.
Five patients have made full recoveries after 3 cases were discharged from the National Isolation Centre in Tutong overnight, the health minister said in his daily press briefing on Thursday.
YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Hj Jaafar said four of the new cases were linked to clusters that have already been identified.
The other case had returned from the United Kingdom on a Royal Brunei Airlines flight on March 23. She was reported to have symptoms before boarding the flight home.
One patient remains in critical condition and another three are under intensive care.
The minister said 1,221 people are currently in quarantine while 794 people have been released from their 14-day quarantine.
A total of 4,519 laboratory tests have been conducted thus far.
YB Dato Dr Hj Mohd Isham said mass testing for COVID-19 is not required at the moment as there is no evidence of widespread community transmission in Brunei.
Reassuring parents on volunteers’ safety, the minister said volunteers are assigned low-risk tasks, such as body temperature screening and administration work at monitoring centres.
The volunteers were mobilised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports to help the health ministry battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModeAll schools to move classes online, UNN boosts broadband data capacity for students
7.23pm | March 25, 2020
All classes will be conducted online once the March school holidays end on Sunday to combat the spread of COVID-19, the education ministry announced in a press statement on Wednesday.
The ministry said all public and private school students, including sixth form centres and Institute of Brunei Technical Education, will be required to stay at home and attend online lessons once the new school term starts next Monday.
Schools will provide “home-pack learning” for students who do not have Internet access at home. Educational television programmes will also be broadcast to support students’ learning, the ministry said.
The ministry has also announced that the IGCSE, O-, AS- and A-level May/June exams will not proceed following the Cambridge Assessment International Education’s (CAIE) decision to cancel the exams due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
An alternative assessment is being considered to ensure student learning is not compromised, the ministry said.
More information on the cancellation of public exams can be obtained by calling 2380630 during office hours, or email exam.dept@moe.gov.bn and jbtpeperiksaan.helpdesks@moe.gov.bn.
In a press conference, the second minister of finance and economy said telco infrastructure provider Unified National Networks (UNN) will increase fixed broadband data capacity to support students’ online learning starting March 30.
YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said students can still use learning applications and platforms even if they reached their data quota limit as their broadband speed will not be throttled for using education apps.
The minister said UNN is also working on enhancing mobile broadband data.
Five more COVID-19 cases confirmed, taking tally to 109
6.19pm | March 25, 2020
The Ministry of Health has confirmed five new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, bringing the total to 109.
In his daily press briefing, YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Hj Jaafar said three cases were related to previously announced clusters.
Two were imported cases from United Kingdom and Surabaya, Indonesia.
One patient remains in critical condition and is on life support. Another three patients require intensive care, including one case where the ministry has yet to trace his source of infection.
“He is still unwell to be interrogated further,” the minister said, adding that family members were asked to provide information.
YB Dato Dr Hj Mohd Isham said he anticipates the number of infections to rise further, especially among those who recently returned home.
“This is why it’s important for those who just returned to isolate, this is the second wave [of cases]. We are expecting 20 percent of them to test positive [for COVID-19],” he added.
When asked about the hospital’s capacity, the minister said there are 30 beds left at the National Isolation Centre in Tutong.
He said there are contingency plans in place if number of cases exceed the amount of beds at the National Isolation Centre, adding that such plans will be announced in the near future.
A total of 1,211 people are still being quarantined, while 655 people completed their quarantine.
To date, 4,084 laboratory tests have been conducted.
Joining the press briefing, Second Foreign Affairs Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Erywan Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Hj Mohd Yusof said there are currently 2,890 Bruneians abroad.
A total of 806 are those registered with the ministry’s e-register system, while 1,534 are students and 552 are diplomats and their family members.
He said the ministry constantly monitors the COVID-19 situation and well-being of Bruneians abroad.
In cases where there is no embassy or representative office in the country that Bruneians are residing in, they may seek assistance from the nearest diplomatic mission.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModeMTIC: Make use of online government services
9.59pm | March 24, 2020
The Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) has advised the public to use its online services through the government portal instead of visiting service counters.
The ministry has shortened the operating hours of payment counters for several of its services in view of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Among the services available on the portal are:
- Application for renewal of driving license and road tax;
- Application for a license to build a house;
- Application for installation of electricity and water supply
- Registration as commercial importer of food products
- Application for vacancies in the public and private sector
Users must register for an e-Darussalam account before using these online services.
In a press conference, MTIC Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Abdul Mutalib Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Hj Mohammad Yusof said over 8,900 online applications were received for renewal of driving licenses and road tax last year.
“A total of 240 customers have also used the Express Post service for the delivery of their driving license and road tax.
“These figures are low and it is hoped that the number of users using the online services will increase greatly, especially given the current situation,” he said.
The renewal services and payments can also be made through the TransportBN mobile app.
Gov’t launches app for users to monitor COVID-19 developments
9.33pm | March 24, 2020
The government has launched a web app that allows users to evaluate whether they have COVID-19 symptoms and alert authorities to take action through a self-assessment tool.
Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said the online platform uses artificial intelligence (AI) to create a “real-time government dashboard” that provides the latest information on COVID-19 developments.
The app, which went live on Tuesday night, enables users to track the number of active and recovered coronavirus cases as well as number of people who are in quarantine.
In a press conference, the minister said the government is also working on providing detailed information on infections based on the district and mukim.
He added that the app allows the government to use big data science and AI algorithms to understand the state of Brunei residents’ health, forecast the infection rate and use medical resource mapping for effective system management and devise better policies.
Additional features are expected to be included in the app to provide comprehensive information on the status of COVID-19 in Brunei, including government press releases.
The app is built in collaboration with China’s Yidu Cloud Technology, a medical AI technology company, to improve the quality and efficiency of Brunei’s healthcare system.
Members of the public are encouraged to make use of the app to monitor the latest developments and help the government curb the spread of COVID-19.
COVID-19 Relief Fund receives over $300,000 in 3 days
8.32pm | March 24, 2020
The COVID-19 Relief Fund has garnered $330,423 of donations, three days after it was launched for the public to help the Ministry of Health purchase medical equipment and other essential items.
In a press briefing, Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah hoped that members of the public will continue contributing to the fund in an effort to fight against the coronavirus.
MoHA clarifies travel ban on foreigners
7.59pm | March 24, 2020
The Ministry of Home Affairs has clarified that transport companies delivering food and medical supplies are not required to seek approval from the Department of Immigration and National Registration to enter Brunei.
Following Monday’s announcement that foreigners are barred from entering Brunei, the ministry said transport company employees are exempted from the ban.
However, they must abide by the health ministry’s instructions and goods that are brought in must comply with customs regulations.
The ministry also warned food premises against providing dine-in services as anyone found violating the government directive can be prosecuted under the Infectious Diseases Act.
The dine-in ban, which started on March 19, also applies to licensed and unlicensed private residences that provide dining services.
COVID-19 tally jumps to 104
7.13pm | March 24, 2020
The number of COVID-19 cases has increased to 104 after the health ministry reported 13 new infections, the second largest daily rise since patient zero was detected on March 9.
In his daily press briefing, Health Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Hj Jaafar said eight of the new cases were part of the cluster who recently returned from Surabaya on a Royal Brunei Airlines flight.
Four of the new infections were close contacts of previously confirmed COVID-19 patients while the ministry is still conducting investigations and contact tracing on one case.
One patient is still in critical condition and is now being treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a heart-lung machine that provides life support.
A total of 1,388 people are under quarantine while 376 people have been discharged from their quarantine.
The ministry is also testing those who are undergoing the mandatory isolation, including returning Bruneian students and travellers. Testing will be done in stages, based on their location.
Since January, 3,647 laboratory tests have been conducted.
YB Dato Dr Hj Mohd Isham said his ministry is also in talks with the Ministry of Development to turn the Lambak Kanan vertical housing scheme into a temporary isolation centre.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModeMarriage registrations suspended
12.23pm | March 24, 2020
The Syariah Court’s Office of Marriages, Divorces, Annulments and Reconciliation for Muslims has suspended all wedding registrations from March 24 until further notice.
In a public notice, the Office said all wedding solemnisation ceremonies that have already been given permission must be postponed in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Queries on the wedding registration suspension can be directed to Brunei-Muara Syariah Court at 2221473, Belait Syariah Court at 3330385 ext 222/223, Tutong Syariah Court at 4220504 and Temburong Syariah Court at 5221019.
Brunei extends mosque closures for another week
9.03pm | March 23, 2020
Mosques, surau and prayer halls will remain closed for another week to stem the spread of COVID-19, the religious affairs minister said on Monday.
YB Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Badaruddin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Awg Othman said the decision to extend the closure was taken as a precautionary measure to avoid danger or harm that can be detrimental to the well-being of people.
The closure, which started on March 17, will continue until March 30 following a review by the Brunei Islamic Religious Council.
The minister added that the call to prayer will continue and mosque officers will remain on duty.
Cleaning and disinfection at mosques and other places of worship will continue to be carried out during the closure.
He said prayer and zikir texts have been distributed and broadcasted through the media, radio and television to make it easy for people to recite.
The Brunei Islamic Religious Council will review whether there is a need to further extend the closure again.
Brunei shuts borders to all foreigners from March 24
8.27pm | March 23, 2020
All foreigners will not be allowed to enter Brunei from Tuesday to reduce the number of imported COVID-19 cases, the home affairs minister announced in a press conference.
YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Abu Bakar Hj Apong said the travel ban includes foreign transit passengers.
The ministry has halted the issuance of visitor visas, student visas and dependent visas, and will not process applications the Department of Immigration and National Registration received before the suspension.
The temporary suspension also applies to authorisation letters on visitor visas, students visas and dependent visas issued by the department as well as foreign embassies and high commissions.
YB Pehin Dato Hj Abu Bakar urged foreigners who have been granted re-entry visas, visitor visas, student visas and dependent visas to defer their travel to Brunei if they are still in their home country.
He said the Department of Immigration and National Registration may give special consideration to specific applications, subject to “matters of national interest”.
Applications that require special consideration may be downloaded from the department’s website and emailed to info@immigration.gov.bn.
Further information on the travel ban can be directed to the department by calling 2383106.
Three more cases reported, total reaches 91
6.55pm | March 23, 2020
The number of COVID-19 cases has reached 91 after the Ministry of Health on Monday confirmed that another three people have contracted the coronavirus.
In a daily press briefing, Health Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Hj Jaafar said two of the new cases had contact with a confirmed carrier of the virus.
The third case recently travelled to Surabaya with family and friends, returning through Royal Brunei Airlines flight BI796 on March 20.
The minister said one patient remains in critical condition and three require close monitoring.
A total of 1,634 people are placed in quarantine, while 282 have been released from their quarantine.
Brunei will also escalate its testing to improve the detection of COVID-19 cases in the country, YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham said.
To date, 3,191 laboratory tests have been conducted.
The ministry will now test those who are undergoing mandatory isolation at designated monitoring centres or self-isolation at home, with priority given to those who share a room at monitoring centres.
To assist the government in controlling the spread of COVID-19, hotel, hostel and apartment owners were urged to offer their facilities as isolation centres for returning Bruneian students and travellers.
The minister said about 2,000 Bruneian students have returned home in the past few days and another 800 are expected to fly home in the next two days.
Addressing parents’ concerns over mandatory isolation, YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham stressed that returning students should only isolate at home if they meet the criteria.
“Don’t remove your children from the monitoring centres just because they complain,” he said. “Isolation is not a holiday. This is only for 14 days.”
Some people don’t want to stay in hostels, or the level of comfort is not what they expect, the minister said, acknowledging that arranging thousands of rooms in such a short period of time was a huge challenge.
“But all this is for the sake of our country… to control the outbreak. We depend on your trust and we hope that people will cooperate, especially parents.”
Accommodation owners can contact the National Disaster Management Centre’s 24-hour hotline at 7190521 to express their interest in providing shelter to the returning Bruneian students.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModeGov’t to allow incoming travellers to self-isolate at home
9.38pm | March 22, 2020
The Ministry of Health announced today that inbound passengers to Brunei will be allowed to self-isolate at home, going back on a previous directive which required them to be isolated at designated monitoring centres for 14 days.
The reversal comes after families of returning Bruneian students complained that rooms at monitoring centres were too small and that the food was “insufficient”, health minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Md Isham Hj Jaafar said during the daily COVID-19 press briefing.
Mandatory self-isolation for inbound travellers is required by law, as part of efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus in the country, which now has 88 confirmed cases. Failure to comply may result in a penalty of up to six months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Incoming travellers — both local and foreign — will have the option of being isolated in their homes, but they must fulfill certain criteria such as having a room with a separate toilet. Otherwise, they will be putting their families at risk, the health minister said.
Individuals who choose to self-isolate at home are also required to undergo COVID-19 testing within 24 hours of arriving in Brunei.
“Even if their test comes up negative, they must still complete 14 days in isolation,” YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham said.
People who wish to stay at monitoring centres for their isolation period will still be able to do so. The government has assigned several hotels as monitoring centres, including the Rizqun International Hotel, Mulia Hotel and The Empire Brunei.
If you want to undergo self-isolation at home, you must fulfill the following criteria:
- There must be a separate room in the house for self-isolation with its own toilet
- There are no high-risk family members in the home
- They must sign a contract saying that they will comply with government’s self-isolation notice and not leave their rooms for 14 days.
- They must undergo COVID-19 testing within 24 hours of arriving in Brunei. Testing will be conducted at the Sports Complex, RIPAS Hospital.
Only one family member is allowed to pick up an arriving passenger at the airport and he/she must be separated and isolated from the as soon as they reach home.
See the Ministry of Health’s guidelines on self-isolation:
Fullscreen ModeCOVID-19 infections rise to 88
6.04pm | March 22, 2020
The number of COVID-19 cases has risen to 88 after the health ministry confirmed five new cases on Sunday.
In a daily press briefing, Minister of Health YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Md Isham Hj Jaafar said four of the new cases were close contacts of people who tested positive for the coronavirus, while the fifth case was a local who recently returned from the UK on March 21.
One patient remains in critical condition, while another is out of danger and no longer requires breathing aid. Two other patients are being closely monitored.
A total of 1,651 people have been placed under quarantine, while 200 people have been discharged after completing the mandatory 14 days.
When asked if the government would consider using apps to track contacts of coronavirus cases — a strategy employed in Singapore — the minister said the government is using artificial intelligence to help with contact tracing.
“This is still in the process [of development]. When it is already stable and can go live, it will be announced in a press conference.”
He added that one person tried to escape quarantine but has been apprehended by authorities.
He reminded the public that those issued a quarantine order must remain at their primary place of residence or designated quarantine centre.
Those who fail to comply with the order will be apprehended by law enforcement and face up to six months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Fullscreen ModeSultan warns against complacency in COVID-19 fight
10.38pm | March 21, 2020
His Majesty Sultan Hj Hassanal Bolkiah has warned against complacency in combating the COVID-19 outbreak as its impact is expected to last for a long time.
Addressing the nation in a special COVID-19 titah broadcasted on Radio Televisyen Brunei, he said Brunei must be ready and united to deal with the pandemic.
“This is our collective responsibility, nobody can run away from this responsibility,” he said, adding that some members of the public have refused to heed government instructions.
Full story here.
Viral video lands youth in court
9.45pm | March 21, 2020
A 22-year-old man has been charged with using indecent and insulting words to mock the public’s fear over the COVID-19 outbreak, which prosecutors say was intended to breach public peace.
On March 19 Mohammad Norhadzrin Mohammad Jamain uploaded a 36-second video clip to his Instagram account, where he encouraged people to disregard public health advice to stay at home during the outbreak.
He said “only those who fear death should stay home” and told followers that they “should fear God instead”. He also claimed the virus was “man-made” and told the public to calm down if people still choose to go out.
No plea was taken and the defendant will next appear in the KB court on March 28.
If found guilty, he faces a fine of $500.
31 Royal Brunei Airlines staff test negative for COVID-19
9.18pm | March 21, 2020
None of the 31 Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) staff who were tested for COVID-19 contracted the virus, the second minister of finance and economy said.
Responding to a question that was posed in a press conference on Friday, YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said 31 of the RB crew members tested negative while six have been released from self-isolation.
On-duty pilots and cabin crew will be tested when a passenger tests positive for the coronavirus.
The minister said the national carrier requires all its crew members to take measures such as wearing protective masks and gloves (when necessary), practising good personal hygiene and undergoing body temperature screening before and after their flights.
All RB planes are disinfected, including the cabin, desks, seats and inflight entertainment screens. All used and unused headsets, pillows and blankets are also replaced after each flight.
MoFE announces measures to help businesses
7.58pm | March 21, 2020
The Ministry of Finance and Economy has unveiled a number of measures to help businesses survive the coronavirus-induced economic downturn, including deferment of social security contributions for local workers earning $1,500 and below.
The six-month deferment of Employees Trust Fund (TAP) and Supplementary Contributory Pension (SCP) contributions applies to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in all sectors, said Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah.
Companies that qualify for the TAP and SCP contribution deferment are required to repay the government within one year after the deferral period, which starts on April 1.
The government will also contribute to the SCP fund of self-employed workers for six months to ensure they will continue to have survivorship fund protection.
In addition, MSMEs in four sectors will get 30 percent rental fee discount from government buildings and corporate tax discount of up to 50 percent to help reduce their costs.
The four sectors are tourism, hospitality (including hotels and registered lodging houses), food and beverage as well as air and water transport.
These MSMEs will further enjoy a 15 percent cut on water and electricity bills.
The Manpower and Employment Council will also extend the contract of i-Ready apprentices for up to six months, specifically for interns whose contract ends before September 2020.
COVID-19 relief fund launched
7.37pm | March 21, 2020
The government has launched a COVID-19 relief fund on Saturday that allows the public and companies to donate money to help the Ministry of Health purchase medical equipment and other essential items.
Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said many in-kind donations have been received from companies to assist healthcare workers in the country.
The ministry’s Treasury Department will manage the fund to ensure the donations are used appropriately.
Donations can be made via BIBD online bank transfer starting March 21. The details are as follows:
BIBD A/C name: COVID-19 Relief Fund
A/C no: 1010070123
Five new COVID-19 cases, total stands at 83
6.09pm | March 21, 2020
The Ministry of Health has confirmed five more COVID-19 cases on Saturday, including a six-month old baby. The total number of COVID-19 cases now stands at 83.
In a daily press briefing, Health Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Md Isham Hj Jaafar said another patient has fully recovered, bringing the total number of discharged patients to two.
All five new cases are close contacts of people who tested positive for the coronavirus.
One of the cases had initially tested negative for COVID-19, but started developing symptoms while in quarantine.
Two patients are still in critical condition and six require close monitoring.
The minister said no healthcare workers have been infected to date, even though they have a high risk of contracting the virus.
A total of 1,633 people are in quarantine, while 101 people have completed their 14-day quarantine.
The ministry has conducted 2,699 laboratory tests since January.
Full statement from MoH here:
Fullscreen ModeHengyi donates US$1 million in medical supplies to MoH
5.16pm | March 21, 2020
Brunei-China joint venture Hengyi Industries has donated US$1 million worth of medical supplies to the Ministry of Health to help the Brunei government mitigate the impact of COVID-19 infection.
In a press release issued on Saturday, the Ministry of Health said the first batch of donations that will arrive next week include five ventilators and 50 units of electric hospital beds.
MoHA suspends applications for recruitment of new foreign workers
11.27pm | March 20, 2020
The government will suspend applications to bring foreign workers into the country beginning Saturday, March 21 in view of the COVID-19 outbreak.
However, the Ministry of Home Affairs will still assess specific applications to ensure critical operations of certain sectors can continue.
The suspension will affect applications in the following categories:
- Applications for new foreign workers under the Foreign Workers License (LPA), including those submitted before March 21, 2020.
- Applications for domestic workers, including those submitted before March 21, 2020.
- Applications for work visas, including those submitted before March 21, 2020.
The suspension also applies to work permits issued by the Department of Immigration & National Registration, and work visas issued by Brunei’s embassies and high commissions overseas.
In a press conference, the Minister of Home Affairs urged foreign workers who already have work visas and re-entry visas to delay their travel to Brunei if they are still in their home country.
YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Abu Bakar Hj Apong said applications to renew the LPA for foreign workers who are already in Brunei will be accepted and processed.
For more information, members of the public can call Labour Department at 2301848 (office hours) or 7298989 (outside office hours). They can also go to the National Immigration and Registration Department website or call 2383106.
MoH to build new virology lab to increase COVID-19 testing
9.36pm | March 20, 2020
The construction of a new virology laboratory is expected to be completed in two weeks to meet the growing need for COVID-19 tests, the health minister said.
YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Hj Jaafar said His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah has given his consent to build the new testing lab on Jalan Sumbiling.
In a press conference, he said the new lab will improve Brunei’s testing capacity.
The ministry conducts 50 to 60 COVID-19 tests daily in the early stages of the outbreak, but this number has now doubled.
To date, a total of 2,468 laboratory tests have been conducted.
“On average, the cost of COVID-19 tests is expensive. The government has spent millions of dollars,” the minister said.
He added that all individuals who are placed in quarantine centres will get tested, including high-risk groups such as close contacts of coronavirus-infected patients.
Individuals isolated at monitoring centres will only be tested when they develop symptoms.
COVID-19 cases now at 78, one patient makes full recovery
8.52pm | March 20, 2020
The number of COVID-19 cases has risen to 78 after five more people contracted the virus, while one patient has made a full recovery, the health minister said on Friday.
Giving his daily COVID-19 updates in a press conference, YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Hj Jaafar said the first recovered patient has been discharged but is still required to undergo self-isolation at home for seven days.
The unidentified patient was released from the National Isolation Centre less than two weeks since the first COVID-19 case was detected.
Four of the new cases did not travel recently but were close contacts of an infected patient.
The other confirmed case involved a British expat who arrived through a Royal Brunei Airlines flight from the UK on March 16. He was reported to be sitting close to another coronavirus-infected passenger who continued his journey to Hong Kong.
There are currently two critically ill patients who need breathing aid and five are being closely monitored.
YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham said six Bruneians who are in Kuala Lumpur have tested positive for COVID-19. They are linked to the Tabligh cluster in the Malaysian capital’s Sri Petaling Mosque.
A total of 1,664 people are placed in quarantine, while 101 people have completed their quarantine.
The minister further clarified that the mandatory isolation for incoming passengers, which started on Friday, applies to all incoming travellers to Brunei, including tourists.
Some hotels, apartments and hostels have been turned into monitoring centres to house inbound travellers for 14 days as part of measures to contain COVID-19.
Foreign nationals are required to bear the $30 to $50 hotel and meal expenses while in isolation. However, testing and treatment for COVID-19 is free for all in Brunei, regardless of nationality.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModePolice refute rumours of movement restrictions
10.28pm | March 19, 2020
The Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) has debunked a viral social media post claiming that it has declared restrictions on movement and ordered all residents to immediately return home.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the police denied releasing such information and slammed individuals who spread fake news.
“Despite the government’s efforts in dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak, there are a few irresponsible individuals who take the opportunity to spread false information, which indirectly caused the public to worry,” the statement read.
RBPF added that it is constantly monitoring to ensure misinformation is promptly refuted to avoid spreading negative sentiments that can cause public chaos.
No restrictions on cross-border delivery of goods
9.58pm | March 19, 2020
Domestic and foreign transport companies are not restricted from entering and leaving Brunei for the delivery of goods, the second finance and economy minister said.
In a press conference, YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said the Sarawak state government has also agreed to allow Brunei companies to enter and leave its territory to conduct cross-border shipping.
Malaysia earlier this week restricted people’s movement nationwide to combat the spread of COVID-19.
Banks to allow deferral of loan payment for businesses in four sectors
8.58pm | March 19, 2020
The government has reached an agreement with banks to defer the payment of loans for businesses in four sectors as part of measures to alleviate their financial burden due to COVID-19.
Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said the six-month deferment on principal repayment of loans will take effect on April 1.
Announcing the measures in a press conference, he said the deferment period applies to businesses in the tourism, hospitality and events management, food and beverage as well as air transport sectors.
Companies in these sectors are still required to pay the loan interest during the six-month period.
The minister said with the exception of third-party charges, all bank fees and charges related to trade and payment transactions will also be waived for six months to help the companies sustain their business.
Full statement from AMBD:
Fullscreen ModeBorders to close at 8pm from March 21
8.32pm | March 19, 2020
The Ministry of Home Affairs has further shortened the opening hours of immigration control posts.
Border checkpoints will now operate from 6am to 8pm starting March 21, according to a statement from the ministry.
All residents of Brunei are currently banned from leaving the country as part of efforts to contain the coronavirus, but commercial and logistics vehicles will still be allowed to enter and leave the territory.
Mandatory isolation for all incoming travellers to Brunei
8.02pm | March 19, 2020
Brunei has revised its quarantine requirements for all air passengers arriving in the sultanate to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Incoming travellers were previously told to undergo 14-day isolation at home, but they will now be placed in “monitoring centres” for 14 days.
Health minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Md Isham Jaafar said the new measure will begin from March 20.
Those placed in monitoring centres are separated from those in quarantine shelters, who are considered high-risk because they have had close contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Ali Apong said hotels may be turned into temporary monitoring centres given that the COVID-19 outbreak has affected hotel occupancy rates.
He added that Bruneian students abroad will undergo their isolation period at hotels when they return to the country.
The government may also turn more venues into quarantine centres if the need arises, the health minister said, adding that the risk of community transmission of COVID-19 is “very real”.
Four venues are currently being used as makeshift quarantine shelters, including the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium’s Games Village.
COVID-19 cases increase to 73
5.14pm | March 19, 2020
The Ministry of Health has announced five more COVID-19 cases today, bringing the total to 75 since the first case was detected 10 days ago.
Health Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Jaafar said three of the new cases were close contacts from previously confirmed cases, while one recently returned from a family holiday in Malaysia.
In a press conference, he said another new coronavirus-infected patient recently travelled to United Kingdom with his family and returned on a Royal Brunei Airlines flight on March 16.
Two patients are still in critical condition and require breathing support, while two are being closely monitored.
A total of 1,486 people have been placed in quarantine and 99 people have completed their 14-day isolation thus far.
The minister also warned private sector employers against cutting the pay of staff who were ordered by the government to undergo quarantine or self-isolation.
Any employer who deducts the quarantined staff’s annual leave and wages can be reported to the Labour Department by calling 2381848 during office hours and 7298989 outside office hours, he said.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModeMoHA clarifies travel ban
10.49am | March 19, 2020
Following the implementation of a ban on travellers who have been to Europe (including the UK), Iran and Hubei, China in the past 14 days, the Ministry of Home Affairs clarified the types of residents that will still be allowed to re-enter Brunei:
- Citizens and permanent residents of Brunei
- Foreign nationals with a green IC
- Foreign nationals with a valid immigration pass, employment pass, student pass, or dependent pass
- Diplomats working in Brunei and their dependents
- British troops based in Brunei and dependents
Recipients of gov’t welfare and pensions urged to receive payments through bank account
10.05pm | March 18, 2020
The government is encouraging recipients of pensions and monthly welfare assistance to receive their monthly payments through their bank accounts, as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
For old age pensions, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports said recipients may still collect their funds from village chiefs and penghulu, but urged them to make use of the bank payment services to prevent crowding at grassroots leaders’ residences.
YB Dato Hj Aminuddin said the community leaders will arrange a “staggered timing” method to distribute the welfare funds to ensure social distancing is observed.
Recipients of monthly welfare benefits and allowances can also elect to receive payments in their bank accounts by filling out the form here.
There are about 47,000 welfare recipients, according to MCYS.
The Ministry of Finance and Economy has introduced similar measures for recipients of service pensions and derivative pensions.
To receive bank payments instead of cash, recipients should fill out this form and email it to pencen@treasury.gov.bn or send it via WhatsApp to 7373222.
For pensioners who do not have bank accounts, the Treasury Department will set up cash collection points in all four districts so people can receive their March payments.
Counters will be operational on March 28 from 7.30am to 4.30pm at the following places:
- International Convention Centre, Berakas
- Dewan Persidangan in Kuala Belait
- Dewan Kemasyarakatan, Tutong
- Treasury Department office, Temburong
Banks will also set up registration counters at these venues for those who want to receive their April pensions through their bank account.
For individuals who want to collect their pensions after March 28, they are instructed to go to the Ministry of Finance and Economy building or Treasury Department office in their respective districts within 10 working days.
The ministry urged people not to come in groups and to leave the premises after collecting their respective pension payments.
Call for volunteers to help fight COVID-19
9.59pm | March 18, 2020
The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports has mobilised 135 volunteers to help fight the COVID-19 disease in Brunei.
MCYS minister YB Dato Hj Aminuddin said an ad hoc youth volunteer committee has been set up at Pusat Bahagia.
More volunteers are needed to tackle the coronavirus and they will be assigned to help the Ministry of Health, he added.
Registrations can be made through the 8913762 hotline.
Jerudong Park closed until further notice
8.40pm | March 18, 2020
The Ministry of Finance and Economy has announced the temporary closure of Jerudong Park Playground, Jerudong Park Gardens, Jerudong Park Amphitheatre and Jerudong Park and Country Club.
These venues will be closed from Thursday March 18, as part of measures to prevent the number of COVID-cases from rising.
The Jerudong Food Court will stay open to provide takeaway services only.
Opening hours for Temburong bridge revised
8.38pm | March 18, 2020
The government has shortened the daily opening hours of the Temburong bridge following reports of heavy traffic and motorists using the bridge for non-essential travel.
Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said the bridge will be open from 6am to 6pm from Thursday onwards to control the spread of COVID-19.
In a press conference with other cabinet ministers, he said too many motorists used the bridge for non-essential travel, including motorcyclists who were found racing and making a roadside stop for no valid reason.
Food premises in Temburong’s Bangar town were also crowded, going against the Ministry of Health’s advice to practise social distancing.
“This should not be happening, especially when we are facing a critical time,” YB Dato Dr Hj Mohd Amin said, adding that police will conduct regular patrols on the bridge.
Dine-in services banned from Thursday
7.52pm | March 18, 2020
All food premises will be prohibited from serving dine-in customers starting tomorrow but takeaways are still allowed, the home affairs minister announced in a press conference.
YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Abu Bakar Hj Apong said the dine-in ban applies to restaurants, cafés, hawker stalls and food courts, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
He said the daily night market at Tamu Aneka Temburong and weekend Tamu Besar Temburong will be closed from today, while Tamu Tutong will be shuttered from tomorrow until further notice.
Other markets will continue operating as long as they do not offer dine-in services, the minister said.
All gyms, bowling centres, golf clubs and public libraries will also be shut from Thursday to limit the spread of COVID-19.
COVID-19 cases rise to 68, minister warns of overwhelmed health system
6.48pm | March 18, 2020
The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has reached 68 in Brunei after 12 more people tested positive for the coronavirus today, the health minister said.
Providing updates at the daily press briefing, YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Md Isham Jaafar said 11 of the new cases have no recent travel history, but were close contacts of individuals who tested positive for COVID-19.
One of the new cases is a Bangladeshi man who attended a Tabligh event in Brunei on March 5.
Two patients are in critical condition and require breathing support and another two are stable but being closely monitored.
The minister said there is no evidence of widespread community transmission of COVID-19 in Brunei thus far.
A total of 1,373 people have been issued quarantine orders, while 48 have completed their 14-day isolation.
YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham also called on employers in the private sector not to cut the annual leave of employees who have been ordered to undergo quarantine, or force their staff to get a medical certificate from a doctor.
The self-isolation notice or quarantine order issued by the Ministry of Health is an official confirmation of the government’s instructions, he added.
The minister reiterated the importance of public cooperation in practising social distancing measures as failure to do so may overwhelm Brunei’s healthcare system.
“If measures are not taken, it will go beyond the peak of our healthcare capacity, we don’t want this to happen.
“It is no joke if our healthcare is beyond [the maximum] capacity, the frontline workers will have to make tough decisions,” he added.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen Mode‘Use Temburong bridge for essential travel only’
10.39pm | March 17, 2020
Authorities have called on Bruneians to avoid using the newly-opened Temburong bridge for non-essential travel.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of Development and Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications said Bruneians must heed the Ministry of Health’s advice to avoid mass gatherings to control the spread of COVID-19.
The public are advised to practise social responsibility and exercise caution while driving to ensure road safety.
As Temburong bridge works are still ongoing, the ministries said motorists should not exceed the 80 km/h speed limit and they are prohibited from stopping on the roadside except during emergencies.
The bridge was open early to allow Temburong residents to bypass Malaysia while the borders are closed due to COVID-19.
Cinemas, sports facilities, museums to shut in response to COVID-19
9.05pm | March 17, 2020
Cinemas nationwide will be shut down from tomorrow to halt the spread of COVID-19, the Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement.
They will be closed be closed for at least one week to allow cleaning.
Sports and recreational facilities will also be closed from tomorrow in view of the COVID-19 outbreak.
The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports said youth centres, museums and exhibition galleries including the Brunei History Centre Exhibition Gallery and Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park will be shut until further notice.
Sports complexes under the purview of MCYS will also be closed, but running tracks will remain open to the public.
Food supply remains stable, Brunei tourism to take a hit
8.52pm | March 17, 2020
Bruneians have been advised to avoid coronavirus-induced panic buying as the minister of primary resources and tourism promised that there will be adequate food supply in the country.
YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Ali Apong said supply of chicken, eggs, red meat, seafood and vegetables from local farms and imported from other countries remains stable.
Businesses were also warned not to take advantage of the situation and hike prices of agricultural goods and seafood products.
Responding to a question on COVID-19’s impact on Brunei tourism in a press conference, the minister said he expects “a lot less” tourists compared to last year.
“We have to bear with it,” YB Dato Hj Ali said, adding that there were over 300,000 visitor arrivals by air last year.
Gov’t reassures safety of Bruneian students abroad
8.01pm | March 17, 2020
The Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs have reassured parents and Bruneian students abroad that steps are being taken to ensure students’ safety and welfare amid the global COVID-19 pandemic.
With the Brunei government imposing a travel ban on all travellers from Europe, including the UK, the education minister said MoE will study measures that would allow overseas Bruneian students to return home.
Students wishing to return home should contact the education attachés at the nearest Brunei mission.
Speaking during a press conference, YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Hamzah Hj Sulaiman said the ministry receives daily reports from education attachés in various countries on the condition of Bruneian students.
These education attachés are responsible for advising students to avoid travelling to badly-hit countries and participating in large gatherings.
Second foreign affairs minister YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Erywan Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Hj Mohd Yusof said there are 2,500 Bruneians pursuing their studies abroad, including 883 in Malaysia and 830 in the UK.
He urged the students and Bruneian travellers to enter their details on the ministry’s e-register system to make it easier for the government to provide assistance, especially if they live in countries that are under lockdown.
Travel ban extends to UK
6.48pm | March 17, 2020
The government has expanded travel restrictions, barring foreign visitors who have been to Europe, including the UK, in the past fortnight from entering Brunei.
Earlier this month, Brunei added countries in mainland Europe, Iran and Italy to the travel ban list.
Starting March 17, any travellers arriving in Brunei will also be required to undergo self-quarantine for 14 days, the Ministry of Health said.
Foreigners who regularly commute to Brunei for work, or Brunei residents who work outside of the country, will be granted a one-month exemption from the government directive that prevents all Brunei residents and expats from leaving the country.
However, they are still required to seek permission from the Prime Minister’s Office before they are granted the exit and entry permit.
Two new COVID-19 cases, total now at 56
6.43pm | March 17, 2020
The Ministry of Health has confirmed two new COVID-19 cases today, bringing the total to 56.
In the daily press briefing on the COVID-19 situation, Health Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Md Isham Jaafar said one of the new cases is linked to the Tabligh cluster in Malaysia, while the other case attended a Tabligh event in Brunei.
Two coronavirus-infected patients are reported to be in critical condition and require breathing assistance. Most patients are in a stable condition.
A total of 1,257 people are placed in quarantine while 23 people have completed their 14-day isolation.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModeMalaysia to enter partial lockdown on March 18
11.55am | March 17, 2020
Malaysia will shut its borders to foreigners on Wednesday until the end of March in measures announced by the prime minister Monday aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19.
Citizens will be allowed to return to Malaysia but must undergo self-quarantine for two weeks, Muhyiddin Yassin said.
Schools and places of worship will also be closed while supermarkets and banks will remain open.
Many of the country’s 566 infections, the highest number in Southeast Asia, have been linked to the Tabligh gathering held last month.
Almost 20,000 people, including dozens of Bruneians, attended the Islamic event.
Reduced operating hours at border control posts
9.16pm | March 16, 2020
The Immigration and National Registration Department has announced reduced operating hours at four of its border checkpoints following the government’s decision yesterday to block all Brunei residents from leaving the country.
In a press statement, the department said the revised operating hours are from 6am to 10pm, effective from March 16 until further notice.
The border checkpoints are: Kuala Lurah Immigration Control Post, Temburong’s Ujung Jalan Control and Inspection Complex and Labu Temporary Control Post as well as Sungai Tujoh Immigration Control Post in Belait.
Temburong bridge to open for public use tomorrow
8.46pm | March 16, 2020
The Temburong bridge will be open to the public tomorrow as Brunei has tightened border controls to contain the coronavirus.
Second Finance and Economy Minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah said only Brunei-registered private cars will be allowed to use the bridge, which will open from 6am to 10pm every day.
Brunei-registered commercial vehicles must seek permission from the Bridge Maintenance Office to use the bridge.
The opening of the 26km bridge is expected to reduce the travel time for Temburong residents to commute to Brunei-Muara by allowing them to bypass Limbang, Malaysia.
Minister of Transport and Infocommunications YB Dato Seri Setia Abdul Mutalib Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yusof said Temburong passenger boat services will still operate with a limited number of riders.
Full story here.
MoRA announces mosque closures for one week
8.01pm | March 16, 2020
Brunei will close all mosques, surau and prayer halls for one week to rein in the spread of COVID-19, the minister of religious affairs announced today.
Joining the press conference with other ministers, YB Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Badaruddin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Awg Othman said Friday prayers will also be suspended this week.
The mosque closures will start from March 17 and end on March 23.
However, the Islamic call for prayer will continue and mosque officers will remain on duty.
The minister said mosques and other places of worship will also be disinfected in stages.
He added that the Brunei Islamic Religious Council will review the situation before a decision is made to extend the closure.
Brunei’s COVID-19 tally reaches 54, one patient in critical condition
7.42pm | March 16, 2020
The Ministry of Health has confirmed another four COVID-19 cases, taking the tally to 54 since Brunei reported its first case a week ago.
Health minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Isham Jaafar said three of the new COVID-19 cases are linked to the Tabligh cluster in Malaysia, while one is an imported case involving a British man who recently travelled to Switzerland and other cities in the UK before entering Brunei.
In a press conference, he said one of the COVID-19 patients is in critical condition and requires breathing support. The patient is said to have underlying health conditions but no further details were disclosed.
Another two coronavirus-infected patients need “close monitoring” but are in good condition, the minister said, adding that most of the patients are stable.
A total of 1,013 people have been ordered to undergo quarantine, while 1,312 laboratory tests have been conducted to date.
Forty-nine of Brunei’s COVID-19 cases are related to the cluster of people who attended a global Tabligh event at Kuala Lumpur’s Sri Petaling Mosque between February 27 and March 1.
More than half of Malaysia’s 553 coronavirus cases are linked to the gathering, which was attended by almost 20,000 people from countries including Bangladesh, Brunei, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
Around 14,500 of the participants were Malaysian.
Full statement from MoH:
Fullscreen ModeUBD, UTB move lessons online
3.56pm | March 16, 2020
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) have moved their lectures and tutorials online as part of precautionary measures to limit the spread of COVID-19.
In a press release, UTB said it has suspended face-to-face teaching and learning for students on taught programmes and those with underlying health conditions for at least two weeks, starting from March 16 to 29.
UBD said some academic staff and students are still allowed to conduct laboratory work on campus in a “cohorting manner”.
UTB students who are doing their internships have also been advised to work from home.
All UBD and UTB campus events that involve a large number of people will either be postponed or cancelled, including March and April wedding events at UBD’s Chancellor Hall.
Both varsities will conduct health screening on staff and students.
UBD has set up its hotline 8801000 while UTB can be reached at 8892800 for any university-related matters on COVID-19.
PMO shares guidelines for the outbound travel ban
1.58pm | March 16, 2020
Exit country travel bans have been made effective from 16 March 2020 for the following:
- Brunei Darussalam citizens
- Permanent residents holding red IC and a valid entry permit, including holders of Certificates of Identity and foreign and stateless passport holders
- Foreign nationals who hold a green IC with a valid immigration pass
- The spouse and children of the above who are residing in Brunei Darussalam and holding Certificates of Identity
Bruneians and foreign residents who need to leave the country for urgent matters, such as medical treatment, court hearings or to resume studies overseas, must apply for approval from the Prime Minister’s Office.
Forms can be downloaded from the Prime Minister’s Office website. Full statement from PMO:
Fullscreen ModeParticipants of Borneo Ultra Trail Marathon or Pontianak Bike Week must self-isolate
12.40pm | March 16, 2020
From the Ministry of Health:
They will receive guidelines to undergo self-isolation at home for 14 days upon arrival into the country.
For those who have already returned to Brunei but have not yet registered with the authorities, they are required to contact the Health Advice Line at 148.
The ministry also encourages members of the public to report any mass gatherings attended by Bruneians either locally or overseas to 148.
All Bruneians and foreign residents are barred from leaving the country
7.40pm | March 15, 2020
Beginning tomorrow, all citizens and residents of Brunei, including foreigners, will be barred from leaving the country in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19.
“Tourists will be allowed to leave the country, but as for people coming into Brunei, that’s a matter that will have to be assessed in the next few days,” said health minister YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham Hj Jaafar.
Bruneians and foreign residents who need to leave the country for urgent matters, such as medical treatment, court hearings or to resume studies overseas, must apply for approval from the Prime Minister’s Office.
Requests can be sent to travelapplication@jpm.gov.bn and should include supporting documents. More information on the process can be found on the PMO website.
Brunei reported 10 new cases today, bringing the total to 50. The minister said they expect to see a “surge” in the number of new cases in the coming weeks.
When asked how long the travel ban would last, the minister said it would depend on how effective the government and community are able to contain the spread of the disease.
“The most important thing is still containment and contact tracing of these [confirmed] cases. If we manage to get 80 percent or more of the contacts of this [Tabligh] cluster, God willing, we will be able to contain it.”
“We each have our role to play, social responsibility. ” he said, adding that all public places should be throughly cleaned and people need to maintain good personal hygiene.
“This is the most basic thing. If you all keep going out [of the country], continue to hold mass gatherings — we will not be able to do this [contain the spread of the virus].
“If this becomes beyond our capacity, it will be disastrous. It might trigger a lockdown.”
Brunei COVID-19 tally rises to 50
7.14pm | March 15, 2020
The Ministry of Health said 10 more people tested positive for COVID-19 today, bringing the total number in Brunei to 50.
Forty-five are related to the cluster of people who attended a mass Tabligh gathering in Kuala Lumpur between February 27 and March 3, but five cases are independent of this cluster.
MoH urged anyone who attended a subsequent Tabligh gathering in Brunei from March 5 to 8 to come forward for testing after several attendees tested positive for COIVD-19 after having contact with individuals that attended the KL event.
“Any person with knowledge of someone who attended any of these events, and has not yet presented themselves should report these individuals to the Health Advice Line on 148,” the ministry added in a statement.
To date, a total of 886 people have been issued quarantine orders because they had close contact with those infected.
Health minister YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham Hj Jaafar said they expect to see a “surge” in the number of COVID-19 cases.
Malaysian authorities have also quarantined nine Brunei nationals in Kuala Lumpur after three tested positive for COVID-19. They are being treated at the Sg Buloh Hospital, Selangor. Of this group, one tested negative for the coronavirus, while five are awaiting lab results.
Full statement here:
Fullscreen ModeGov’t has restricted public events. But how do you define a mass gathering in the Bruneian context?
1.58pm | March 15, 2020
See the ministry’s guidelines below:
Fullscreen ModeThose returning to Brunei from EU must self-isolate for 14 days
7.58pm | March 14, 2020
Brunei has updated risk categorisation for coronavirus-affected countries, upgrading the EU to Category A. Travelers returning from mainland Europe must self-isolate for 14 days and avoid all public activities.
Again, the Ministry of Health strongly advises against non-essential travel.
The full risk categorisation here:
Fullscreen ModeThree new cases COVID-19 detected, bringing Brunei total to 40
7pm | March 14, 2020
The Ministry of Health said three more people tested positive for COVID-19 today, including a nine-month old baby.
Brunei has confirmed 40 cases, while another 638 people are under quarantine for having close contact with infected persons.
Minister of Health YB Dato Dr Hj Md Isham Hj Jaafar said the cases are still contained to the KL cluster and there is no evidence of community transmission.
If the disease spreads, MoH is prepared to mobilise private healthcare workers to help alleviate the burden on the healthcare system, he added.
MoH has already scaled down some services and mobilised student nurses from PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences at UBD to help out in hospital wards.
“Even if we take all the necessary measures, we cannot contain the disease unless people do their part by social distancing, cancelling mass gatherings and being socially responsible citizens,” the minister said.
The minister also cautioned the public against attending mass gatherings, whether in Brunei or elsewhere. He warned members of the Tabligh group to not attend an upcoming meeting in South Sulawesi, Indonesia from March 19 – 22 2020.
Full statement here:
Fullscreen ModeGroup activities at Bandarku Ceria suspended
7.07pm | March 14, 2020
Clarifying an earlier statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs said that Bandarku Ceria will continue, but that all group activities such as walkathons, runs, etc will be suspended until further notice.
The capital will still be car-free on Sunday mornings and the public can participate in individual recreational activities. Vendors will still be permitted to operate during Bandarku Ceria.
16th session of Legislative Council to end early
11.32am | March 14, 2020
In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the speaker has announced that the 16th session of the Legislative Council will conclude today, about a week ahead of schedule.
Debate and discussions on the national agenda will no longer take place, but questions submitted ahead of time will be answered in writing. LegCo members will vote on the government budget later today.
Government restricts public gatherings
9.32pm | March 13, 2020
In a press conference this evening, health minister YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Md Isham Hj Jaafar said that large public gatherings and events will not be allowed, including weddings and sporting events.
The National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam said it would suspend matches for the Brunei Super League until further notice. The Brunei Basketball Association announced similar measures to suspend games for the National Basketball League.
His Majesty the Sultan also gave consent to cancel public celebrations for Israk Miraj, which was scheduled to take place on March 22.
COVID-19 tally climbs to 37, five days after first case was announced
8.15pm | March 13, 2020
The Ministry of Health announced 12 news cases of coronavirus infection, bringing Brunei’s national tally to 37.
Thirty-four cases are related to the cluster of people who attended a mass Tabligh gathering in Kuala Lumpur in early March. Two cases are independent of this cluster, but have recent travel history to Malaysia, Cambodia and Indonesia.
The latest case, Patient 37, did not attend the event in Kuala Lumpur, but did attend a Tabligh gathering in Brunei on March 5 where several participants of the KL event were present. MoH is still investigating the context of each case.
To date, a total of 523 people have been issued quarantine orders because they had close contact with infected persons.
Since January, 478 laboratory tests for COVID-19 have been conducted, covering 319 people.
Here’s the full statement from Ministry of Health:
Fullscreen Modefrom "september ceria" - Google News https://ift.tt/2ybU7uj
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