Sorry folks, if you enjoy Christmas and fancy a look or two at some pretty lights — don’t think you’re going to vacation in Brunei this holiday season. According to reports out of the Middle East, Brunei’s ruler Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has apparently banned all Christmas related activities in the country.
Why, you say? The Telegraph reports that he apparently decided to ban such things out of fear that it would “taint” Muslims and the Islam religion. Per Brunei authorities, non-Muslims are able to celebrate Christmas, however, it must be kept secret from other Muslims.
The maximum fine for a Muslim celebrating Christmas in Brunei: $20,000 USD and 5 years in prison.