Latest amendments to COVID-19 control measures by COVID-19 Steering Committee

Latest amendments to COVID-19 control measures which will commence on Wednesday, 15th February 2023.

With the consent of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the COVID-19 Steering Committee wishes to announce the latest amendments to COVID-19 control measures which will commence on Wednesday, 15th February 2023, as follows: 

1. Infectious Diseases Act Cap 204 will no longer be the basis for mandatory isolation for positive cases of COVID-19.
   
   This is taking into consideration that Brunei Darussalam has entered the Endemic Phase about a year ago and the people of this country have high level of immunity for collective protection which was achieved through vaccination and natural infection (hybrid immunity). This is also in line with the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO).
   
   
2. Close contacts of COVID-19 cases are no longer required to undergo self-isolation and as such, the red code on the BruHealth app will no longer be in use. However, anyone with symptoms are advised to do their ART.
   
   
3. Physical distancing according to the width of prayer mats (large size) for Fardhu prayers in conggregation and Friday prayer at the mosques is no longer required and the use of own prayer mats is not mandatory.
   
   
4. With these changes, the term "COVID-19 Health Protocols" will be replaced by "COVID-19 Health Advisory".
   
   
5. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health will update and implement control measures at hospitals and clinics (including private hospitals and clinics).
   
   
6. Ministry of Health's Weekly Press Conference will only be held if and when required and will no longer be held regularly every week. However, specific information on COVID-19 will continue to be shared through mass media.
   
   

Following the reports of surges of cases in several countries, the people of Brunei Darussalam are advised not to worry or panic. The COVID-19 Steering Committee continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation in the country as well as regionally and at the global level and make risk assessments on its impact to the country’s health system, while at the same time ensuring that any control measures that are taken are appropriate, so as to ensure the safety, welfare and peace for the people of Brunei Darussalam. The country is always prepared to address any situations, with its excellent health system, supported by high vaccination and immunity rates, which will enable us to control the situation well, Insya Allah. Any changes or amendments to COVID-19 control measures will certainly be announced to the public.

Meanwhile, the public are advised to ensure that their vaccination status is updated, in line with the Ministry of Health’s recommendations. According to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health, COVID-19 booster dose can be given to those aged 18 years and above who have passed six months since the date of their last COVID-19 vaccination or from the date of COVID-19 infection, whichever date is later and regardless of the number of booster doses that they have received.

May Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala protect us from any kind of unforeseen circumstance and disease, including COVID-19. Amin ya rabbal 'alamin.

COVID-19 STEERING COMMITTEE
Jalan Perdana Menteri
Bandar Seri Begawan BB3913
Negara Brunei Darussalam

15th Rejab 1444
6th February 2023