The eyes of the world are on Brunei due to its plans to implement strict punishments based on the sharia law. When implemented, Brunei will be the first country in Southeast Asia to do so at a national level, ahead of more populous, Muslim-dominated neighbours like Malaysia and Indonesia.
Among a slew of new measures, gay sex will be punishable by stoning. Understandably, this development has captured global attention. The United Nations have criticised the move, while celebrities like Elton John and George Clooney have called for the boycott of hotels owned by the country.
Earlier today, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah also declared his wish to see a strengthening of Islamic teachings in the country.
Historically, Brunei has been a moderate country that has stayed largely neutral in regional and global affairs. It has been a close partner of Singapore. This begs the question of the impetus for this drastic change in how the country is governed.
A country like Indonesia, the largest Muslim country in the world in terms of population size, has preserved the secular space while allowing for the different religions to flourish. It is not perfect. It is inclusive nonetheless.
What will happen to the LGBT community in Brunei? One does not deserve to be persecuted because of one's gender preferences.
Singapore cannot stand silent on this matter. As part of the Asean community, the Singapore government must call out Brunei for what it is doing, and ensure that there no particular community is being discriminated.
The writer, Faith, believes in the good in people.
