James Kon & Rokiah Mahmud

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar reiterated that mass gatherings are banned and urged the public to complain to the police if they are aware of any.

“I have said this during the past several days not to organise mass gatherings. I was made to understand that there are some still gathering at home for parties and similar things. This is also discouraged,” he told a press briefing yesterday.

He added, “If anyone is aware of gatherings, contact the Health Advice Line 148 or the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF). With the amendment of the Infectious Diseases Act, 2020 (Chapter 204) effective January 30, 2020, the RBPF has total authority to detain and prosecute people organising mass gatherings.” Meanwhile, the Royal Brunei Police Force in supporting the Ministry of Health’s (MoH) moves to control and handle the COVID-19 outbreak in the country, is seeking public cooperation in this regard.

RBPF under the Infectious Diseases Act Section 63 Chapter 204 will provide full support to enforce the Act. RBPF also informed the public on the amendment of the Infectious Diseases Act Chapter 204 (Amended) 2020.

Anyone who violates or disobeys orders issued by MoH and organises mass gatherings or defies the quarantine order can be fined up to BND10,000 and imprisoned up to six months or both under the Infectious Diseases Chapter 204. RBPF will also increase patrols to ensure that all instructions are followed. If there is information on violation of the Act, the public can contact the RBPF hotline 993.