Sports betting is completely illegal in Brunei Darussalam under the Common Gaming Houses Act, which comprehensively prohibits all forms of gambling activities. The act declares every common gaming house to be "a common and public nuisance contrary to law," and defines gaming as "playing any game of chance or of mixed chance and skill for money or money's worth" (1). This broad definition encompasses sports betting activities, making them subject to severe legal penalties including substantial fines and imprisonment.
The legal framework in Brunei Darussalam treats gambling offenses as serious criminal matters, with the Attorney General's Chambers responsible for prosecution under the strict gambling laws. The situation was further reinforced by the introduction of Sharia law in 2014, which outlawed all forms of betting or gambling activities throughout the sultanate (2). Under this legal system, there are no licenses available for any gambling activities, including sports betting, casinos, lotteries, or online wagering operations.
"Every common gaming house is hereby declared to be a common and public nuisance contrary to law."
The penalties for engaging in sports betting or other gambling activities in Brunei Darussalam are severe, with fines ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 and imprisonment terms up to 3 years for operating gambling establishments (1). Even participating in gambling activities carries penalties of up to $10,000 in fines and 6 months imprisonment. The government maintains strict enforcement of these laws through the Royal Brunei Police Force, which has broad powers to conduct searches, make arrests, and seize gambling-related materials without warrants in certain circumstances.
Source:
https://www.agc.gov.bn/AGC%20Images/LAWS/ACT_PDF/CAP%2028.pdf
https://bookiessite.com/asia/betting-sites-in-brunei/
Last updated: 15-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
