New Shariah Penal Code Coming Into Effect In Brunei

AFP reports that yesterday the Sultan of Brunei announced that a new Shariah Penal Code will come into force in stages beginning next April. Brunei already has a dual set of courts, with Shariah courts handling primarily marital and inheritance issues. The new Penal Code, which only applies to Muslims in the country (70% of the population),  will, according to one expert, likely be applied "very, very softly," even though it includes death by stoning as the punishment for adultery.