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Brunei – Animal Welfare and Cultural Issues

Brunei, officially known as the Nation of Brunei, the Abode of Peace, is a small country located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. While Brunei has a relatively small population, its people have a deep respect for animals and nature.

Prevailing Attitude to Animals and Pets in Brunei

The prevailing attitude towards animals and pets in Brunei is generally positive. Many families in Brunei keep cats and dogs as pets, and it is not uncommon to see people walking their dogs or playing with their cats in public.

Moreover, as a Muslim-majority country, Brunei has a particular respect for animals, which is rooted in Islamic teachings. In Islam, it is considered a sin to harm animals or treat them cruelly. Therefore, animals are treated with respect and kindness in Brunei.

Pet Ownership in Brunei

In Brunei, there are several laws regarding pet ownership that owners must follow. One of the most important of these is that pet owners must obtain a permit from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood before bringing their pets into the country. This permit ensures that pets have been vaccinated and are healthy.

There are also laws governing the treatment of animals in Brunei. It is illegal to mistreat or abuse animals in any way, including not providing adequate food, water, shelter, and medical care. Additionally, it is illegal to abandon animals, and doing so can result in fines and even imprisonment.

Animal Charities in Brunei

Brunei has several animal charities that work to promote animal welfare and help animals in need. One such organization is the Brunei Animal Welfare Society (BAWS).


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BAWS was founded in 2007 and works to rescue and care for animals in Brunei. They provide shelter, food, and medical care for animals in need and work to find them loving homes. They also work to educate the public about responsible pet ownership and the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect.

Another organization that works to promote animal welfare in Brunei is the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The WWF is an international organization that works to protect wildlife around the world. In Brunei, the WWF works to protect the rainforest and its inhabitants, including orangutans and other endangered species.

Pet Supply Stores in Brunei

While there are several pet supply stores in Brunei, they are not as common as they are in other countries. One of the most popular of these stores is Pets & More, which offers a range of pet products, including food, toys, and bedding.

In addition to physical pet supply stores, there are also several online pet supply stores that cater to pet owners in Brunei. One such store is Petbacker, which offers a wide range of pet products and services, including pet sitting and dog walking.

Cultural Taboos and Sensitivities

As a Muslim-majority country, Brunei has certain cultural taboos and sensitivities that pet owners should be aware of. For example, dogs are considered unclean in Islam, and it is important to keep them clean and well-groomed. Additionally, it is considered disrespectful to bring dogs into mosques or other places of worship.

Moreover, Brunei has a deep respect for nature and the environment. While animals are generally treated with respect, it is important for pet owners to be mindful of the impact their pets may have on the local ecosystem.

In conclusion, Brunei is a country that values animal welfare and has a generally positive attitude towards pets. However, it is important for pet owners to be aware of the laws and cultural sensitivities surrounding pet ownership in the country. By obtaining the necessary permits, treating their pets with kindness and respect, and being aware of cultural sensitivities, pet owners can help to ensure that their pets are well-cared for and that they are able to enjoy their time in Brunei to the fullest. Additionally, supporting animal charities and shopping at pet supply stores can also help to promote animal welfare in the country.